Spratley Reviews
By Jaelyn T.
I asked a new student and an old student from Spratley to see how this school is.
New Student
Q.How do you like Spratley so far?
A.I like it so far.
Q.Did you want to leave your old school?
A. Yes, because I wanted to be with kids like me.
Q.How often do you talk about you old school?
A.Never, because it never comes up.
Q.Have you made any friends? If so, name some.
A.Yes, Davey, Blake, Nik, Keyshaun, Riley, and Garland.
Old Student
Q.How have you liked Spratley?
A.Good, so far.
Q.What grade did you start in, and in who's class?
A.I started in 4th grade in Mrs.Ferrel's room.
Q.Who is one of your best friends and why?
A.Jaelyn because she is nice.
Q.Who is your favorite teacher?
A. Mrs.Waite
I asked a new student and an old student from Spratley to see how this school is.
New Student
Q.How do you like Spratley so far?
A.I like it so far.
Q.Did you want to leave your old school?
A. Yes, because I wanted to be with kids like me.
Q.How often do you talk about you old school?
A.Never, because it never comes up.
Q.Have you made any friends? If so, name some.
A.Yes, Davey, Blake, Nik, Keyshaun, Riley, and Garland.
Old Student
Q.How have you liked Spratley?
A.Good, so far.
Q.What grade did you start in, and in who's class?
A.I started in 4th grade in Mrs.Ferrel's room.
Q.Who is one of your best friends and why?
A.Jaelyn because she is nice.
Q.Who is your favorite teacher?
A. Mrs.Waite
Interview with Mrs. Norville: Odyssey of the Mind
by Sandy T.
Interview with Mrs. Norville: Odyssey of the Mind
1. What is Odyssey of the Mind?
A: OM is a club where kids get to use their creativity to create solutions to various problems. There is a long term problem and a spontaneous problem.
2. How did you get started with O.M.?
A: Leeza Beazlie, the OM coordinator for York County, worked with me in Newport News and asked me if I would like to start a team. She said it would be a great way for my gifted kids to stretch themselves creatively. I jumped in with both feet.
3. What's your favorite part of O.M?
A: I enjoy watching my students learn to work together. I always start the year by telling the kids that I don't care how we place so long as they learn to work together for a common goal.
4. How many people participated in O.M. this year?
A: We had a revolving door this year. We had kids start and quit and then new ones start. I took 15 kids to competition.
5. How are the skits created?
A: The kids read the long term problem guidelines provided by national Odyssey of the Mind and decide how they want to solve the problem. Each problem has a skit aspect which the kids write, direct, produce and act in. There are 2-3 problems every year that involve an engineering element too. The kids have to build a structure, vehicle, or email sorting system to incorporate into the skit.
6. How does someone join?
A: We have tryouts at the beginning of the year. I try to take everyone who comes out, but we will only have 2 teams next year. There are times when i have had as many as 5 teams, but that is not successful.
7. Where do you go to compete and how often?
A: We compete annually. The site changes every year depending on which District is hosting.
8. Whose idea was it to start O.M?
A: I have no idea ;-)
9. What was your favorite skit this year?
A: I enjoyed all of the skits this year for different reasons. The Art Musical was my favorite because they had 3-4 core members who did not give up, even when it looked like they would not finish. The "It's How You Look At It" team was my favorite because they were so funny! The creativity in the group was amazing to watch! I mean who else but that group could make dresses out of trash bags and make it look expensive. The Email Must Go Through was my favorite group because they came back to OM after 3 of the 4 did not make the team last year and they made it all the way to State! This team worked together better than any other team I have ever coached. So, all of them are my favorite for one reason or another.
10. How long does it usually take to create all the props and costumes?
A: The kids start working on spontaneous in Sept and start long term in Oct or Nov depending upon when we receive the long term problem guidelines.
1. What is Odyssey of the Mind?
A: OM is a club where kids get to use their creativity to create solutions to various problems. There is a long term problem and a spontaneous problem.
2. How did you get started with O.M.?
A: Leeza Beazlie, the OM coordinator for York County, worked with me in Newport News and asked me if I would like to start a team. She said it would be a great way for my gifted kids to stretch themselves creatively. I jumped in with both feet.
3. What's your favorite part of O.M?
A: I enjoy watching my students learn to work together. I always start the year by telling the kids that I don't care how we place so long as they learn to work together for a common goal.
4. How many people participated in O.M. this year?
A: We had a revolving door this year. We had kids start and quit and then new ones start. I took 15 kids to competition.
5. How are the skits created?
A: The kids read the long term problem guidelines provided by national Odyssey of the Mind and decide how they want to solve the problem. Each problem has a skit aspect which the kids write, direct, produce and act in. There are 2-3 problems every year that involve an engineering element too. The kids have to build a structure, vehicle, or email sorting system to incorporate into the skit.
6. How does someone join?
A: We have tryouts at the beginning of the year. I try to take everyone who comes out, but we will only have 2 teams next year. There are times when i have had as many as 5 teams, but that is not successful.
7. Where do you go to compete and how often?
A: We compete annually. The site changes every year depending on which District is hosting.
8. Whose idea was it to start O.M?
A: I have no idea ;-)
9. What was your favorite skit this year?
A: I enjoyed all of the skits this year for different reasons. The Art Musical was my favorite because they had 3-4 core members who did not give up, even when it looked like they would not finish. The "It's How You Look At It" team was my favorite because they were so funny! The creativity in the group was amazing to watch! I mean who else but that group could make dresses out of trash bags and make it look expensive. The Email Must Go Through was my favorite group because they came back to OM after 3 of the 4 did not make the team last year and they made it all the way to State! This team worked together better than any other team I have ever coached. So, all of them are my favorite for one reason or another.
10. How long does it usually take to create all the props and costumes?
A: The kids start working on spontaneous in Sept and start long term in Oct or Nov depending upon when we receive the long term problem guidelines.
Interview with Mrs. Groth by Sandy T.
Mrs. Groth is a seventh grade science teacher at Spratley Gifted Center. Some of the students at Spratley Gifted Center has painted a mural in her room. We asked her some questions about it!
1. What are your feelings toward this mural?
Answer: I am very excited about the mural. I think it represents the artists' appreciation of art itself and of the beauty, complexity and wonder that makes a rainforest.
2. Whose idea was it to create it?
Answer: It was my idea to make the room more interesting and then I proposed the idea to Dr. Crum. He liked the idea so then I introduced the idea to Khalil Russell.
3. Who are the artists?
Answer: The artists are Khalil Russell, Ahryanna McRae and Tyra Sadler.
4. What are your thoughts on the artists?
Answer: The artists are great at what they do and are a great asset to the school. Each of them brings their own perspective into the mural yet they are able to compose one great concept or setting. Most of us will not have a chance to visit the rainforest so it is like bringing a piece of the rainforest back to the class to enjoy.
Khalil-He is very meticulous. He has done a lot of background research on the animals and what they eat so if you want to know about specifics he would be the one to ask among the artists. He is very passionate about his fish! Khalil always pays attention to detail; especially if it is fish related.
Tyra- Tyra is very quiet but quite the artist. Her use and understanding of color are phenomenal. She is very easy going and understands that this process of painting the mural is time consuming yet not on a time constraint. She is very understanding and flexible and has been eager to paint from the start. Her caring and knowledge of the subject shines through in her artwork.
Ahryanna- Ahryanna has a willingness to share ideas but is also a great listener. She likes to stay organized and has a great use of contrast to catch the viewer's eye. She always gives 100% at whatever task she is given at school.
All 3 artists have some things in common. They all care about their artwork and want to fix or change it to get it to their liking and for it to represent a true rainforest (Khalil always makes sure of this). In addition, they have a great sense of humor and have contributed a great deal to our school and I believe they will be successful at whatever it is they choose to do later on. The last thing they have in common and the saddest thing is that all of them will be truly missed. Whatever high school they will be attending should be lucky to have them.
5. What do you believe is the meaning behind it?
Answer: The meaning behind the mural is to transform others into the world of the rainforest. It is an intricate biome with many layers, symbiotic relationships, interdependent relationships and it affects the people who live in the area a great deal; whether it is due to exported goods ( a positive aspect) or the destruction of the rainforest (by nature or man), a negative aspect. The rainforest represents a canvas where learning can continue forever because there is still a lot we do not know about the rainforest and species continue to be discovered each year.
6. About how many different kinds of animals are painted on it?
Answer: 12.
7.When was it started?
Answer: It was started this summer; August 21st, 2012.
8.Approximately how long do you think it will take for it to be finished?
Answer: This is up to the artists but it could take up until May perhaps.
9. How often are more detail added onto it?
Answer: Every one to two weeks; whenever the artists schedule and my schedule can work together. The last update was on Tuesday, Nov. 6th.
10. Are you excited to see the final product?
Answer: Yes! I think they (the artists) are as well.
1. What are your feelings toward this mural?
Answer: I am very excited about the mural. I think it represents the artists' appreciation of art itself and of the beauty, complexity and wonder that makes a rainforest.
2. Whose idea was it to create it?
Answer: It was my idea to make the room more interesting and then I proposed the idea to Dr. Crum. He liked the idea so then I introduced the idea to Khalil Russell.
3. Who are the artists?
Answer: The artists are Khalil Russell, Ahryanna McRae and Tyra Sadler.
4. What are your thoughts on the artists?
Answer: The artists are great at what they do and are a great asset to the school. Each of them brings their own perspective into the mural yet they are able to compose one great concept or setting. Most of us will not have a chance to visit the rainforest so it is like bringing a piece of the rainforest back to the class to enjoy.
Khalil-He is very meticulous. He has done a lot of background research on the animals and what they eat so if you want to know about specifics he would be the one to ask among the artists. He is very passionate about his fish! Khalil always pays attention to detail; especially if it is fish related.
Tyra- Tyra is very quiet but quite the artist. Her use and understanding of color are phenomenal. She is very easy going and understands that this process of painting the mural is time consuming yet not on a time constraint. She is very understanding and flexible and has been eager to paint from the start. Her caring and knowledge of the subject shines through in her artwork.
Ahryanna- Ahryanna has a willingness to share ideas but is also a great listener. She likes to stay organized and has a great use of contrast to catch the viewer's eye. She always gives 100% at whatever task she is given at school.
All 3 artists have some things in common. They all care about their artwork and want to fix or change it to get it to their liking and for it to represent a true rainforest (Khalil always makes sure of this). In addition, they have a great sense of humor and have contributed a great deal to our school and I believe they will be successful at whatever it is they choose to do later on. The last thing they have in common and the saddest thing is that all of them will be truly missed. Whatever high school they will be attending should be lucky to have them.
5. What do you believe is the meaning behind it?
Answer: The meaning behind the mural is to transform others into the world of the rainforest. It is an intricate biome with many layers, symbiotic relationships, interdependent relationships and it affects the people who live in the area a great deal; whether it is due to exported goods ( a positive aspect) or the destruction of the rainforest (by nature or man), a negative aspect. The rainforest represents a canvas where learning can continue forever because there is still a lot we do not know about the rainforest and species continue to be discovered each year.
6. About how many different kinds of animals are painted on it?
Answer: 12.
7.When was it started?
Answer: It was started this summer; August 21st, 2012.
8.Approximately how long do you think it will take for it to be finished?
Answer: This is up to the artists but it could take up until May perhaps.
9. How often are more detail added onto it?
Answer: Every one to two weeks; whenever the artists schedule and my schedule can work together. The last update was on Tuesday, Nov. 6th.
10. Are you excited to see the final product?
Answer: Yes! I think they (the artists) are as well.
Interview with Mr. Burns
By Piper W. & Sandy T.
Shawn Burns is a teacher who teaches at Spratley Gifted Center. He is known for Technology Education. He also has some clubs that he runs. We asked him some questions about his clubs!
1. Q: How did you get interested in Lego Robotics?
A: It was when SGC was established, we recived the robotic kits from Mary Peake, and I was asked by the PTA to start a club for both elementary and middle school students.
2. Q: How many students are in the club?
A: 54 elementary and 25 middle school students this year.
3. Q: What robotic competitions have you participated in?
A: We have participated in the "First Lego League," which was last year. This year, we
participated in "The First Tech Challange."
4. Q: How has the program improved since it started?
A: We started with four robots and currently have twelve. This is allowed us to get more
students involved.
5. Q: What improvments would you like to make?
A: I would like to get six more robot kits to build with and build a competition table for the
clubs to use.
6. Q: What is your favorite robotics memory?
A: During the "First Tech Challenge" competition, when the team robot placed first ring.
7. Q: What's the story behind the "Fat Man Dancing" video?
A: I told the FTC team that if they got the robot to place one ring on a peg, I would start
dancing and they could video tape it.
8. Q: What other types of robotics do you use?
A: I have vex robots, and we are also going to do sea perch, which is an underwater remote
operated vehicles.
9. Q: What's the next step after robotics club?
A: Students can take robotics at Phoebus or Hampton High Schools. Additionally, they can do robotics at New Horizons.
10. Q: Which of the clubs that you run is your favorite?
A: I really like the elementary lego robotics, because the students get so excited about it.
Shawn Burns is a teacher who teaches at Spratley Gifted Center. He is known for Technology Education. He also has some clubs that he runs. We asked him some questions about his clubs!
1. Q: How did you get interested in Lego Robotics?
A: It was when SGC was established, we recived the robotic kits from Mary Peake, and I was asked by the PTA to start a club for both elementary and middle school students.
2. Q: How many students are in the club?
A: 54 elementary and 25 middle school students this year.
3. Q: What robotic competitions have you participated in?
A: We have participated in the "First Lego League," which was last year. This year, we
participated in "The First Tech Challange."
4. Q: How has the program improved since it started?
A: We started with four robots and currently have twelve. This is allowed us to get more
students involved.
5. Q: What improvments would you like to make?
A: I would like to get six more robot kits to build with and build a competition table for the
clubs to use.
6. Q: What is your favorite robotics memory?
A: During the "First Tech Challenge" competition, when the team robot placed first ring.
7. Q: What's the story behind the "Fat Man Dancing" video?
A: I told the FTC team that if they got the robot to place one ring on a peg, I would start
dancing and they could video tape it.
8. Q: What other types of robotics do you use?
A: I have vex robots, and we are also going to do sea perch, which is an underwater remote
operated vehicles.
9. Q: What's the next step after robotics club?
A: Students can take robotics at Phoebus or Hampton High Schools. Additionally, they can do robotics at New Horizons.
10. Q: Which of the clubs that you run is your favorite?
A: I really like the elementary lego robotics, because the students get so excited about it.
Interview with Mrs. Ferrel
By Austin B.
Mrs. Ferrel is a very nice teacher, she teaches fourth grade science and runs the Ecology Club.
Q: Do you like your job?
A: Yes, because everyday is different. There is a new challenge everyday.
Q: How long have you been teahcing?
A: 9 years
Q: What do you enjoy more, Ecology Club or teaching?
A: I enjoy them both because I can do different projects for each.
Q: Did you want to be a teacher as a kid? If you did why, and if you didn't what changed your mind?
A: I wanted to be a surgen as a kid.
Mrs. Ferrel is a very nice teacher, she teaches fourth grade science and runs the Ecology Club.
Q: Do you like your job?
A: Yes, because everyday is different. There is a new challenge everyday.
Q: How long have you been teahcing?
A: 9 years
Q: What do you enjoy more, Ecology Club or teaching?
A: I enjoy them both because I can do different projects for each.
Q: Did you want to be a teacher as a kid? If you did why, and if you didn't what changed your mind?
A: I wanted to be a surgen as a kid.
Interview With Mrs.Keffer
By Nyah S
Have you met Spratley gifted Center's very own fifth grade Science teacher. Well if you have you might get to know her a little more. All students know her as Mrs.Keffer is really good at her job and to prove it she won a teacher of the year award at Mary Peake in 2003. Mrs.Keffer coached Oddesy of the Mind for three seasons and she was cordinator for the Oddesy of the mind for six years. Mrs.Keffer is also going to try to make Trex recycling a club next year. She in my opinion is the nicest , most playful teacher I have ever met. Here are some questions I got before my grade was moved up to middle school.
Q1: What is your name?
A:Wendi Keffer
Q2: How long have you been teaching?
A: 17 years in Hampton
Q3:When did you start teaching?
A:1996
Q4: Why did you start teaching?
A:It was something I just wanted to do
Q5: Have you always taught Science?
A: No, I've only taught science for 3 years
Q6: Did you teach anywhere before Spratley?
A:I taught at Mary Peak Center before I came to Spratley
Have you met Spratley gifted Center's very own fifth grade Science teacher. Well if you have you might get to know her a little more. All students know her as Mrs.Keffer is really good at her job and to prove it she won a teacher of the year award at Mary Peake in 2003. Mrs.Keffer coached Oddesy of the Mind for three seasons and she was cordinator for the Oddesy of the mind for six years. Mrs.Keffer is also going to try to make Trex recycling a club next year. She in my opinion is the nicest , most playful teacher I have ever met. Here are some questions I got before my grade was moved up to middle school.
Q1: What is your name?
A:Wendi Keffer
Q2: How long have you been teaching?
A: 17 years in Hampton
Q3:When did you start teaching?
A:1996
Q4: Why did you start teaching?
A:It was something I just wanted to do
Q5: Have you always taught Science?
A: No, I've only taught science for 3 years
Q6: Did you teach anywhere before Spratley?
A:I taught at Mary Peak Center before I came to Spratley
Interview with Paul Karhnak
Austin B.
Paul Kahrnack set a record for the Spratley Gifted Center. He is the youngest Geography Bee winner. I'd like to see a third grader do that.I'm not saying they can't be as smart, but Paul faced older kids. And here he is, speaking of which.
1. Q: How does it feel to be the youngest Geography Bee winner at Spratley?
A: It feels amazing.
2. Q:How were the other contestants treating one another?
A: They were treating them as normal people with good sportsmanship.
3. Q: Where the questions hard for you?
A: Some were and weren't.
Paul Kahrnack set a record for the Spratley Gifted Center. He is the youngest Geography Bee winner. I'd like to see a third grader do that.I'm not saying they can't be as smart, but Paul faced older kids. And here he is, speaking of which.
1. Q: How does it feel to be the youngest Geography Bee winner at Spratley?
A: It feels amazing.
2. Q:How were the other contestants treating one another?
A: They were treating them as normal people with good sportsmanship.
3. Q: Where the questions hard for you?
A: Some were and weren't.
Interview with Mrs. Sexton
By Vaughn D
Mrs. Sexton is the Interactive Media teacher at Spratley Gifted Center. She has been teaching here since it opened. She teaches 6th, 7th, and 8th grade. Here are some interesting facts about Mrs. Sexton.
Q: How long have you been teaching?
A: 19 years.
Q: Why did you choose the job of being a media teacher?
A: This job chose me.
Q: Where were you born?
A: Houma, Louisiana
Q: How would you describe your job?
A: Always something new, very challenging, allows me to be creative, and the students always make me laugh!
Q: What are the challenging things about your job?
A: Student behavior, trying to find time for everything, leaving school and going home to 3 teenagers!
Q: What do you find most enjoyable about your job?
A: Things never get old, people I work with, the way the students make me smile:)
Q: What was the most educational thing you learned in college about your job?
A: I'm horrible at computer programming!
Q: Have you ever taught somewhere else?
A: Davis Middle School, Cary Elementary, and Churchland Academy Elementary in Portsmouth.
Q: How long have you been teaching?
A: 19 years.
Q: Why did you choose the job of being a media teacher?
A: This job chose me.
Q: Where were you born?
A: Houma, Louisiana
Q: How would you describe your job?
A: Always something new, very challenging, allows me to be creative, and the students always make me laugh!
Q: What are the challenging things about your job?
A: Student behavior, trying to find time for everything, leaving school and going home to 3 teenagers!
Q: What do you find most enjoyable about your job?
A: Things never get old, people I work with, the way the students make me smile:)
Q: What was the most educational thing you learned in college about your job?
A: I'm horrible at computer programming!
Q: Have you ever taught somewhere else?
A: Davis Middle School, Cary Elementary, and Churchland Academy Elementary in Portsmouth.
Interview with Khalil R.
By Xavier L.
Khalil Russell has an artistic personality and attends Spratley Gifted Center.Born April 21,1999, this 13 year old has an extreme passion for literature, art, and, most of all, music. I sat down in an exclusive interview with him for a question and answer session.
Q: How long have you been a musician?
A: I've been in band since 6th grade [I skipped 7th]. I took keyboarding in 2nd grade and have
dabbled without further lessons in piano [Für Elise, Moonlight, Sonata, etc.].
Q: What instruments do you play?
A: I play the clarinet and a little bit of piano.
Q: Do you have any musical role models?
A: Beethoven, I think. I love classical music.
Q: Are there any musicians in your family?
A: My mom used to play the piano, the sax, and the flute.
Q: What is your favorite piece of music to play?
A: Moonlight Sonata on the piano, Cassini's Rings as a part of a full band on the clarinet.
Q: If you could play at any place in the world or universe, where would you play?
A: I would play at SGC in the band room because I would be surrounded by friends and fellow
musicians.
Q: What are your feelings towards other musicians?
A: It depends. Typically I think them blessed to have been able to take lessons, as I long for
them.
Khalil is a very intellectual individual. Hopefully, I will have another opportunity to interview him.
Khalil Russell has an artistic personality and attends Spratley Gifted Center.Born April 21,1999, this 13 year old has an extreme passion for literature, art, and, most of all, music. I sat down in an exclusive interview with him for a question and answer session.
Q: How long have you been a musician?
A: I've been in band since 6th grade [I skipped 7th]. I took keyboarding in 2nd grade and have
dabbled without further lessons in piano [Für Elise, Moonlight, Sonata, etc.].
Q: What instruments do you play?
A: I play the clarinet and a little bit of piano.
Q: Do you have any musical role models?
A: Beethoven, I think. I love classical music.
Q: Are there any musicians in your family?
A: My mom used to play the piano, the sax, and the flute.
Q: What is your favorite piece of music to play?
A: Moonlight Sonata on the piano, Cassini's Rings as a part of a full band on the clarinet.
Q: If you could play at any place in the world or universe, where would you play?
A: I would play at SGC in the band room because I would be surrounded by friends and fellow
musicians.
Q: What are your feelings towards other musicians?
A: It depends. Typically I think them blessed to have been able to take lessons, as I long for
them.
Khalil is a very intellectual individual. Hopefully, I will have another opportunity to interview him.
Interview with Mrs. Westphal by Vaughn D. & Jeremy C.
Mrs. Westphal is the fifth grade social studies teacher at the Spratley Gifted Center. She loves different kinds of birds, and pink. She is a very good teacher and she is cooperative. She also teachers language arts. These are some questions we asked her about her life.
Q: How long have you been teaching?
A: 22 years
Q: Where were you born?
A: Scranton, Pennsylvania
Q: What is your favorite thing to teach in Social Studies?
A: I like teaching the Civil War. I also learn a great deal about it as I am teaching.
Q: What other grades have you taught?
A: I have taught 4th grade.
Q: What other schools have you taught at?
A: I have taught At Smith Elementary, Kraft Elementary, Mary Peake, and the new Spratley.
Q: What's your favorite book?
A: Children's Books- Charlotte's Web & Little Women; Adult books- To Kill A Mockingbird
Q: What year did you start teaching?
A: 1991
Q: Why did you decide to become a teacher?
A: I love helping children learn and discover new things.
Q: How long have you been teaching?
A: 22 years
Q: Where were you born?
A: Scranton, Pennsylvania
Q: What is your favorite thing to teach in Social Studies?
A: I like teaching the Civil War. I also learn a great deal about it as I am teaching.
Q: What other grades have you taught?
A: I have taught 4th grade.
Q: What other schools have you taught at?
A: I have taught At Smith Elementary, Kraft Elementary, Mary Peake, and the new Spratley.
Q: What's your favorite book?
A: Children's Books- Charlotte's Web & Little Women; Adult books- To Kill A Mockingbird
Q: What year did you start teaching?
A: 1991
Q: Why did you decide to become a teacher?
A: I love helping children learn and discover new things.
Interview with Madison Christ and Karlyn Center
By Dyonne J. & Piper W
Madison Christ and Karlyn Center can do some really cool things. They are in gymnastics. They enjoy things like flips. Will you be doing some flips soon? Here are some questions we asked them.
1. What is your favorite gymnastics event?
A: Both: Vault
2. Where do you practice gymnastics?
A: Madison: Gymnastics Inc. Karlyn: Gymnastics Inc.
3. How often do you practice?
A: Both: 3.5 hours a day, 5 days a week
4. How often do you compete?
A: Both: twice a month
1. What is your favorite gymnastics event?
A: Both: Vault
2. Where do you practice gymnastics?
A: Madison: Gymnastics Inc. Karlyn: Gymnastics Inc.
3. How often do you practice?
A: Both: 3.5 hours a day, 5 days a week
4. How often do you compete?
A: Both: twice a month
One Direction vs. Justin Bieber? by Haley Crabtree
Justin Bieber is an 18 year old from Ontario, Canada. He is an R&B pop singer and he has stolen the hearts of thousands of girls. But watch out JB, One Direction is here and going full throttle. One Direction is a British and Irish boy band with Niall Horan, Harry Styles, Zayn Malik, Louis Thomlinson, and Liam Payne. One Direction has made thousands of girls go wild But the big debate is "Which one is better?" Here is an interview between a "Belieber" (JB fan) and a "Directioner" (1D fan).
INTERVIEWS
So now I want to hear from you. Vote in the poll who you like best. Justin Bieber or One Direction?!?!
JB - Dyonne Jennings
1. Why are you a "Belieber?"
A: Because JB is super talented and cute!
2. How long have you been a "Belieber?"
A: 2 years
3. If you could spend one whole day with JB, what would you do?
A: An amusement park!
4. If you could interview JB, what 2 questions would you want to ask him?
A: Could he follow me on twitter? & Why did him and Selena break up?
5. What is your favorite song by him
A: Beauty & a Beat.
1D - Madison Rowe
1. Why are you a "Directioner?"
A: They make me happy and I love them.
2. If you had to choose a favorite member who would it be?
A: Can't decide
3. Why did you choose them?
A: their song, "WMYB" made me feel beautiful
4. How long have you been a "Directioner?"
A: January of 2011.
5. If you could spend one whole day with them, what would you do?
A: Run around a hotel with them.
6. If you could spend one whole day with one of them, who would it be and what would you do?
A: Louis, go to an amusement park because he is hilarious
INTERVIEWS
So now I want to hear from you. Vote in the poll who you like best. Justin Bieber or One Direction?!?!
JB - Dyonne Jennings
1. Why are you a "Belieber?"
A: Because JB is super talented and cute!
2. How long have you been a "Belieber?"
A: 2 years
3. If you could spend one whole day with JB, what would you do?
A: An amusement park!
4. If you could interview JB, what 2 questions would you want to ask him?
A: Could he follow me on twitter? & Why did him and Selena break up?
5. What is your favorite song by him
A: Beauty & a Beat.
1D - Madison Rowe
1. Why are you a "Directioner?"
A: They make me happy and I love them.
2. If you had to choose a favorite member who would it be?
A: Can't decide
3. Why did you choose them?
A: their song, "WMYB" made me feel beautiful
4. How long have you been a "Directioner?"
A: January of 2011.
5. If you could spend one whole day with them, what would you do?
A: Run around a hotel with them.
6. If you could spend one whole day with one of them, who would it be and what would you do?
A: Louis, go to an amusement park because he is hilarious
Good-Bye Gentle Giant by Sam C. & Nyah S.
Russel Glover, the school security guard, was a true New York Giants. He was so much fun! He played rock-paper-scissors with the boys. He's very very tall, but nice. He left because he went to work at a troubled youth facility in New York. Now that this is over, here are some questions before he left us.
Q: How do you feel about moving?
A: Excited, but sad to leave Spratley.
Q: Where are you moving?
A: Moving back to Yonkers, New York.
Q: What job are you getting?
A: Supervisor at a residental facility for troubled youth.
Q: When is your last day?
A: Friday, September 27th, 2012
Q: Do you think you'll like your new job?
A: I hope I do, but nothing will compare to Spratley. It's hands down the best job ever.
Q: Will you come visit us again?
A: Yes, I plan to visit and send videos to Mrs. Wilson.
Q: How do you feel about moving?
A: Excited, but sad to leave Spratley.
Q: Where are you moving?
A: Moving back to Yonkers, New York.
Q: What job are you getting?
A: Supervisor at a residental facility for troubled youth.
Q: When is your last day?
A: Friday, September 27th, 2012
Q: Do you think you'll like your new job?
A: I hope I do, but nothing will compare to Spratley. It's hands down the best job ever.
Q: Will you come visit us again?
A: Yes, I plan to visit and send videos to Mrs. Wilson.
Fall Food Drive
By Hannah C. and Sam C.
Have you heard of the Fall Food Drive? I can tell you exactly what you need to know. The Fall Food Drive is going on right at the Spratley Gifted Center. It is actually our 3 annual Fall Food Drive. You must turn in donations in to your classroom (we donate to the Salvation Army). The grade who gets the most donations gets a prize - their teacher will dress up like a turkey! Each 2$ donation is equal to 3 food items. The last day is November 19. Our goal is 2000 non-perishable food items.
The following is an interview with Mrs. Estes, the 6th grade teacher who is sponsoring the Fall Food Drive at SGC...
1. Q. What gave you the idea for an annual Fall Food Drive?
A. At the school I used to work at we had one and when I moved to Spratley, I thought it would be a good
opportunity for the kids here, too.
2. Q. Why did you pick the Salvation Army to donate to?
A. The Salvation Army has a good record for donating all collections to the people. For example, other
charities would only donate 75 cents out of a dollar, and the Salvation Army donates almost all of the
dollar.
3. Q. How are the donations going so far?
A. We are off to a good start, but we should pick it up a little.
4. Q. Is the goal to have the food to the people by Thanksgiving?
A. Before Thanksgiving.
5. Q. Do you think we will reach our goal of 2,000 items?
A. Of course!
Have you heard of the Fall Food Drive? I can tell you exactly what you need to know. The Fall Food Drive is going on right at the Spratley Gifted Center. It is actually our 3 annual Fall Food Drive. You must turn in donations in to your classroom (we donate to the Salvation Army). The grade who gets the most donations gets a prize - their teacher will dress up like a turkey! Each 2$ donation is equal to 3 food items. The last day is November 19. Our goal is 2000 non-perishable food items.
The following is an interview with Mrs. Estes, the 6th grade teacher who is sponsoring the Fall Food Drive at SGC...
1. Q. What gave you the idea for an annual Fall Food Drive?
A. At the school I used to work at we had one and when I moved to Spratley, I thought it would be a good
opportunity for the kids here, too.
2. Q. Why did you pick the Salvation Army to donate to?
A. The Salvation Army has a good record for donating all collections to the people. For example, other
charities would only donate 75 cents out of a dollar, and the Salvation Army donates almost all of the
dollar.
3. Q. How are the donations going so far?
A. We are off to a good start, but we should pick it up a little.
4. Q. Is the goal to have the food to the people by Thanksgiving?
A. Before Thanksgiving.
5. Q. Do you think we will reach our goal of 2,000 items?
A. Of course!
Who won in 4th grade for SCA ...
By Zariyah R. & Alex L.
The treasurer's job is to count the money and spend it on important things. The secratery's job is to write important things the president says.We interviewed the winners in forth grade. First we interviewed Rachel Watson, our new treasurer. Here are some we questions we asked her.
Q:What is your age?
A:9
Q:Did you win for treasurer?
A: Yes, I did.
Q: Why did you want to be treasurer?
A: I wanted to fix this school up.
Q: What grade are you in?
A: 4th grade.
Second, we interviewed Katelyne Leone. Katelyne is now Secretary. Here's the questions we asked her and the answers she gave us.
Q: How old are you?
A: 9 years old.
Q: Did you win for secretary?
A: Yes.
Q: Why did you run?
A: I wanted to make school a better place.
Q: What grade are you in?
A: 4th grade/Mrs. Herncall
The treasurer's job is to count the money and spend it on important things. The secratery's job is to write important things the president says.We interviewed the winners in forth grade. First we interviewed Rachel Watson, our new treasurer. Here are some we questions we asked her.
Q:What is your age?
A:9
Q:Did you win for treasurer?
A: Yes, I did.
Q: Why did you want to be treasurer?
A: I wanted to fix this school up.
Q: What grade are you in?
A: 4th grade.
Second, we interviewed Katelyne Leone. Katelyne is now Secretary. Here's the questions we asked her and the answers she gave us.
Q: How old are you?
A: 9 years old.
Q: Did you win for secretary?
A: Yes.
Q: Why did you run?
A: I wanted to make school a better place.
Q: What grade are you in?
A: 4th grade/Mrs. Herncall
Interview with Mr.President
by E.J. M.
Solomon Sledge is funny, active, and nice. He is 10 years old and the funniest person I know. He is very athletic and loves football. He is also very good at football. He wears something blue everyday because it is his favorite color. His favorite subjects are P.E. and art. He is a great guy and you will like him as president.
Q: Why did you run for president?
A: I ran Because I think I'm ready for this role.
Q: Was the competition tough or easy?
A: Both.
Q: What are you going to do to make the school better?
A: More after-school activities, dances, game nights, etc.
Q: Do you think you will be able to work well with the Vice President?
A: Yes.
Solomon Sledge is funny, active, and nice. He is 10 years old and the funniest person I know. He is very athletic and loves football. He is also very good at football. He wears something blue everyday because it is his favorite color. His favorite subjects are P.E. and art. He is a great guy and you will like him as president.
Q: Why did you run for president?
A: I ran Because I think I'm ready for this role.
Q: Was the competition tough or easy?
A: Both.
Q: What are you going to do to make the school better?
A: More after-school activities, dances, game nights, etc.
Q: Do you think you will be able to work well with the Vice President?
A: Yes.
An Interview With Mr. Burns
By Jacob W. & Jeremy C.
This interview is about 50-year-old Shawn Burns. He has 2 sons who have left the house, he loves to golf, and he likes math. He is very happy to be Teacher of the Year & some of his personal friends are the elective teachers here at Spratley.
Q: What are you currently doing with each of your classes?
A: For 6th grade we are doing Inventor, but for 7th & 8th we are doing Manufacturing.
Q: What do you think of your classes?
A: I like pretty much all of my students.
Q: What is your favorite activity in class?
A: I like the Manufacturing unit.
Q: What are you planning for later activities?
A: A remote underwater machine called seapereh, which we would use kits to make. If I
can't get the money, we may do it next year.
Q: What new activities are you planning that you haven't done before?
A: Seapereh & Energy & Environment which is about things like the solar and water power.
That's it for this interview!
This interview is about 50-year-old Shawn Burns. He has 2 sons who have left the house, he loves to golf, and he likes math. He is very happy to be Teacher of the Year & some of his personal friends are the elective teachers here at Spratley.
Q: What are you currently doing with each of your classes?
A: For 6th grade we are doing Inventor, but for 7th & 8th we are doing Manufacturing.
Q: What do you think of your classes?
A: I like pretty much all of my students.
Q: What is your favorite activity in class?
A: I like the Manufacturing unit.
Q: What are you planning for later activities?
A: A remote underwater machine called seapereh, which we would use kits to make. If I
can't get the money, we may do it next year.
Q: What new activities are you planning that you haven't done before?
A: Seapereh & Energy & Environment which is about things like the solar and water power.
That's it for this interview!
BHS Soccer Coach: Interview With Coach Warren White
By Piper W.
Bethel High School students and many 8th grade students at many schools, even Spratley, have been hard at work conditioning, practicing for tryouts, and just getting in shape. All are hoping they'll make the jv (junior varsity) or varsity soccer team.
Q: How long have you been coaching soccer?
A: Thirteen years.
Q: What do you look for in a soccer player?
A: Intelligent, athletic, & coachable kids who are willing to put in the time every day at
conditioning & practice in order to make themselves better team and individual players.
Q: Did you play soccer when you were young?
A: I played AYSO soccer in California when I was in grade school.
Q: When did you get involved with the sport?
A: I started coaching my oldest son when he was 5. I have been coaching ever since and I am
also the commissioner of a local soccer league.
_______________________________________________________________
Soccer Player Interview: Cameron W.
Q: When did you get involved with soccer?
A: When I was three.
Q: Do you feel you do work well with everyone you are conditioning with?
A: Yes
Q: What position do you feel most comfortable in on the field?
A: I feel most comfortable in the defense position since I have played there since I was nine.
Bethel High School students and many 8th grade students at many schools, even Spratley, have been hard at work conditioning, practicing for tryouts, and just getting in shape. All are hoping they'll make the jv (junior varsity) or varsity soccer team.
Q: How long have you been coaching soccer?
A: Thirteen years.
Q: What do you look for in a soccer player?
A: Intelligent, athletic, & coachable kids who are willing to put in the time every day at
conditioning & practice in order to make themselves better team and individual players.
Q: Did you play soccer when you were young?
A: I played AYSO soccer in California when I was in grade school.
Q: When did you get involved with the sport?
A: I started coaching my oldest son when he was 5. I have been coaching ever since and I am
also the commissioner of a local soccer league.
_______________________________________________________________
Soccer Player Interview: Cameron W.
Q: When did you get involved with soccer?
A: When I was three.
Q: Do you feel you do work well with everyone you are conditioning with?
A: Yes
Q: What position do you feel most comfortable in on the field?
A: I feel most comfortable in the defense position since I have played there since I was nine.
Interview With a Fifth Grader
By Shane P
Q: What is your name?
A: Dylan D.
Q: Who is your teacher?
A: Mrs.Westphal.
Q: Do you have a favorite in-school activity? If so, What is it?
A: Yes, Newspaper Club.
Q: What is your favorite subject?
A: Social Studies, and even though we don't have it in fifth grade, Chemistry.
Q: Do you think fifth grade is hard?
A: Partially.
Q: Do you have a favorite activity at home? If so, what is it?
A: Yes, building Legos.
Q: Do you enjoy the privilege of being at the SGC?
A: Yes, very much.
Thank You, Dylan D., for this great interview. Until next time, reader, keep on reading the SGC newspaper!
Q: What is your name?
A: Dylan D.
Q: Who is your teacher?
A: Mrs.Westphal.
Q: Do you have a favorite in-school activity? If so, What is it?
A: Yes, Newspaper Club.
Q: What is your favorite subject?
A: Social Studies, and even though we don't have it in fifth grade, Chemistry.
Q: Do you think fifth grade is hard?
A: Partially.
Q: Do you have a favorite activity at home? If so, what is it?
A: Yes, building Legos.
Q: Do you enjoy the privilege of being at the SGC?
A: Yes, very much.
Thank You, Dylan D., for this great interview. Until next time, reader, keep on reading the SGC newspaper!
Interview with Mrs. Hobbs
By Jacob B.
Q: How do you like teaching at Spratley?
A: I love it.
Q: Who inspired you to teach math?
A: My sister, Lisa, and Mrs. Rick.
Q: Have you ever taught any other grades?
A: Kindergarten and then sent to first grade.
Q: What was your favorite subject in the 3rd grade?
A: Reading.
Q: What has to be your favorite thing you have done with your students?
A: Sun beads and experiments in science.
Q: How do you like teaching at Spratley?
A: I love it.
Q: Who inspired you to teach math?
A: My sister, Lisa, and Mrs. Rick.
Q: Have you ever taught any other grades?
A: Kindergarten and then sent to first grade.
Q: What was your favorite subject in the 3rd grade?
A: Reading.
Q: What has to be your favorite thing you have done with your students?
A: Sun beads and experiments in science.
INTERVIEW WITH MRS. JONES
By Jeremy C. & Jacob B.
Q Where do you get your information?
A Internet & students
Q Where were you born?
A Norfolk VA
Q How do you like doing computer art?
A I love it
Q Do you have a favorite sport?
A Rock climbing
Q What is your favorite on the computer ?
A Photo Shop Elements
Q What is your favorite thing in computer art?
A To watch students
Q Who is your favorite teacher at Spratley?
A Mrs. Nabors
Q Who is your idol?
A M. C. Esher
Q Where do you get your information?
A Internet & students
Q Where were you born?
A Norfolk VA
Q How do you like doing computer art?
A I love it
Q Do you have a favorite sport?
A Rock climbing
Q What is your favorite on the computer ?
A Photo Shop Elements
Q What is your favorite thing in computer art?
A To watch students
Q Who is your favorite teacher at Spratley?
A Mrs. Nabors
Q Who is your idol?
A M. C. Esher
Interview with Mrs. Marcolini
By Shannon H.
Q: Do you like teaching seventh and eighth graders or sixth graders the most?
A: Both, I like teaching one language while I also like teaching four languages.
Q: Do you get along with the kids you teach?
A: Yes, I do.
Q: When you were a kid, did you want to have a teaching job?
A: No, because my mom was a teacher and I saw how hard it was.
Q: Do you have a dream job? If so what?
A: Yes, to be a marine biologist.
Q: Do you like teaching seventh and eighth graders or sixth graders the most?
A: Both, I like teaching one language while I also like teaching four languages.
Q: Do you get along with the kids you teach?
A: Yes, I do.
Q: When you were a kid, did you want to have a teaching job?
A: No, because my mom was a teacher and I saw how hard it was.
Q: Do you have a dream job? If so what?
A: Yes, to be a marine biologist.
Interviewing 6th graders: Middle School Transition
by Kiayona P.
80% of the people I interviewed said they're "Having fun with the idea," and"Enjoying middle school." 15% of the people interviewed said that middle school "stinks" and that they want nothing to do with it. 5% of the students say that they don't know, or they are a mixture of emotions. It seems like the school year is off to a great start for the 6th graders.
80% of the people I interviewed said they're "Having fun with the idea," and"Enjoying middle school." 15% of the people interviewed said that middle school "stinks" and that they want nothing to do with it. 5% of the students say that they don't know, or they are a mixture of emotions. It seems like the school year is off to a great start for the 6th graders.
Interview with Mrs.Sowell
By Dylan.D
Mrs.Sowell is the nice art teacher for C.Vernon Spratley. She has a nice sense of humor and a fun attitude.
Q: Where were you born?
A: Carrollton, Kentucky.
Q: Where did you study art?
A: Northern Kentucky University.
Q: Was art your first teaching choice? If not what was it?
A: Yes. Photographer.
Q: Why is art important to teach?
A: In art, you get so many skills that teach you problem solving and critical thinking that you
don't get in any other area.
Q: What new art are you going to do with returning students?
A: Clay projects.
Mrs.Sowell is the nice art teacher for C.Vernon Spratley. She has a nice sense of humor and a fun attitude.
Q: Where were you born?
A: Carrollton, Kentucky.
Q: Where did you study art?
A: Northern Kentucky University.
Q: Was art your first teaching choice? If not what was it?
A: Yes. Photographer.
Q: Why is art important to teach?
A: In art, you get so many skills that teach you problem solving and critical thinking that you
don't get in any other area.
Q: What new art are you going to do with returning students?
A: Clay projects.
Middle School SCA Elections
by Jacie K. and Tiffany P.
Middle school SCA elections were held on October 4, 2011. 7th and 8th graders were able to run for historian, treasurer, secretary, vice president, and president.
All the candidates gave speeches that were no longer than one minute. Before giving these, the candidates hung posters, handed out stickers, or anything else that could boost their campaign.
When it came time to vote, all the classes voted. Some voted for friends, others voted for politics.
Results:
President: Laura M.
Vice President: Shannon B.
Secretary: Ahryanna M.
Treasurer: Justin G.
Historian: Tiffany P. (by default)
Middle school SCA elections were held on October 4, 2011. 7th and 8th graders were able to run for historian, treasurer, secretary, vice president, and president.
All the candidates gave speeches that were no longer than one minute. Before giving these, the candidates hung posters, handed out stickers, or anything else that could boost their campaign.
When it came time to vote, all the classes voted. Some voted for friends, others voted for politics.
Results:
President: Laura M.
Vice President: Shannon B.
Secretary: Ahryanna M.
Treasurer: Justin G.
Historian: Tiffany P. (by default)
Introducing Mr. Glover
By Rahwa Y., Claire N., and Diana H.
Q: How do you carry out your job?
A: By staying professional at all times.
Q: When you were younger, did you want to be a security official?
A: Yes, I liked children and I believed the children are our future.
Q: What's your favorite part of your job?
A: Meeting all the children and interacting with all the children.
Q: How do you like your new job at SGC?
A: I love my new job at Spratley! The kids at Spratley are the best.
Q: How do you get along with the other staff?
A: The staff at Spratley has welcomed me with open arms.
Q: How do you carry out your job?
A: By staying professional at all times.
Q: When you were younger, did you want to be a security official?
A: Yes, I liked children and I believed the children are our future.
Q: What's your favorite part of your job?
A: Meeting all the children and interacting with all the children.
Q: How do you like your new job at SGC?
A: I love my new job at Spratley! The kids at Spratley are the best.
Q: How do you get along with the other staff?
A: The staff at Spratley has welcomed me with open arms.
Swimming Coach Interview
By Piper W.
Q: Did you get many first place ribbons while swimming?
A: Yes, I had a few seasons undefeated.
Q: What is your favorite stroke to swim?
A: Breaststroke and freestyle, mainly 100-200, and 500 meters.
Q: What is your favorite swimming stroke to teach?
A: Freestyle and backstroke. Those were my specialties, so in coaching it comes naturally.
Q: How long have you been swimming?
A: 6 Years.
Q: When you were a kid did you want to be a swim coach?
A: Yes, I knew I wanted to stay involved with the sport.
Q: When you were little did you want to take part in any swim teams?
A: Yes, I swam in a summer league, a U.S team, and during high school.
Q: What would you consider your greatest swimming accomplishment?
A: Getting 2nd place in a city meet relay and qualifying for meets at a national level.
Q: Did you get many first place ribbons while swimming?
A: Yes, I had a few seasons undefeated.
Q: What is your favorite stroke to swim?
A: Breaststroke and freestyle, mainly 100-200, and 500 meters.
Q: What is your favorite swimming stroke to teach?
A: Freestyle and backstroke. Those were my specialties, so in coaching it comes naturally.
Q: How long have you been swimming?
A: 6 Years.
Q: When you were a kid did you want to be a swim coach?
A: Yes, I knew I wanted to stay involved with the sport.
Q: When you were little did you want to take part in any swim teams?
A: Yes, I swam in a summer league, a U.S team, and during high school.
Q: What would you consider your greatest swimming accomplishment?
A: Getting 2nd place in a city meet relay and qualifying for meets at a national level.
Interview with Mr. Köster
By Jazzmyn C.
Q: Where are you from?
A: Lima, Peru in South America, but born in Jacksonville, NC.
Q: What is your favorite food?
A: Peruvian food, spaghetti, and ceviche.
Q: What hobbies do you have outside of school?
A: Soccer, going to the beach, and snowboarding.
Q: Where are you from?
A: Lima, Peru in South America, but born in Jacksonville, NC.
Q: What is your favorite food?
A: Peruvian food, spaghetti, and ceviche.
Q: What hobbies do you have outside of school?
A: Soccer, going to the beach, and snowboarding.
Interview with Mr.Gaten
by Jaelyn T and Ashley B
Mr.Gaten is the vice principal in the Spratley Gifted Center.
Q. When were you born?
A. November, 6th
Q. Where were you born?
A. Louisiana
Q. What is your favorite color?
A. Purple
Q. What is your favorite animal?
A. horses
Q. What is your best child memory?
A. Going to the first circus
Q. Favorite pet
A. none
Q. Best movie
A. John Wayne
Q. How many friends?
A. Many people
Q. Do you like being around with kids?
A. Yes
Q. Who are some people you can trust?
A. My wife, siblings, sister, and 2 brothers.
Q. How many children do you have?
A. 2 sons
Q. What is your favorite book?
A. Don't Sweat The Small Stuff
Q. What is your full name?
A. George Gaten Jr.
Q. What is you favorite place?
A. The lake,so my children and I could go fishing.
Q. What is your favorite dessert?
A. Ice Cream
Q. What is your favorite pattern?
A. Checkered
Q. What is your favorite shape?
A. Circle
Mr.Gaten is the vice principal in the Spratley Gifted Center.
Q. When were you born?
A. November, 6th
Q. Where were you born?
A. Louisiana
Q. What is your favorite color?
A. Purple
Q. What is your favorite animal?
A. horses
Q. What is your best child memory?
A. Going to the first circus
Q. Favorite pet
A. none
Q. Best movie
A. John Wayne
Q. How many friends?
A. Many people
Q. Do you like being around with kids?
A. Yes
Q. Who are some people you can trust?
A. My wife, siblings, sister, and 2 brothers.
Q. How many children do you have?
A. 2 sons
Q. What is your favorite book?
A. Don't Sweat The Small Stuff
Q. What is your full name?
A. George Gaten Jr.
Q. What is you favorite place?
A. The lake,so my children and I could go fishing.
Q. What is your favorite dessert?
A. Ice Cream
Q. What is your favorite pattern?
A. Checkered
Q. What is your favorite shape?
A. Circle