Back to School 2017

Wednesday, July 26, 2017

Pontotoc Progress • pontotoc-progress.com

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Welcome To Our Campuses Pontotoc Progress • pontotoc-progress.com

North and South Pontotoc

Pontotoc City Schools

Welcome to the 2017-18 school year! It is a great pleasure to welcome both our returning families and those who are new to our system.

We are excited that you have chosen to allow us in the Pontotoc County School District to teach and care for your child. We consider it our greatest honor to serve you and your child. I cannot express the excitement from me and our staff about the upcoming opportunity we will have with you and your child to develop a community of lifelong learners that supports one another for the betterment of Pontotoc County.

I cannot commend our administration, teachers, and maintenance staff enough for the work that they have completed this summer to make our schools better learning environments! We strive to ensure that your children have the best learning environments that are comfortable, welcoming, and conducive to student learning. To that end many hours have been spent cleaning, painting, repairing, rethinking, and reimagining to make your child’s workspace the most productive it can be.

Summer is also a time for our faculty members to focus on their own learning – something they do not have as much time for during the school year, when the emphasis is on teaching our students. We are fortunate to have a very professional cohort of teachers and administrators within PCSD that take their own professional learning seriously and have spent their time in workshops and planning in order to increase student achievement and foster new and innovative ways to engage their students.

August is a very exciting time for those of us involved in education because it allows us to develop new goals, build new relationships and embark upon new challenges. Our Systemwide Goals this year highlight academic, social, and emotional learning. While improving student achievement is an important part of our mission, we know it is essential to focus on the social and emotional needs of our students as well. As parents, you can “help us help you” develop your student into the most well rounded person they can possibly be with equal attention given to their academic and social development.

One of the most important parts of my job is to be in the schools on a regular basis connecting with teachers and students. I also look forward to engaging with parents in the coming year. Our Teacher Advisory Committee members will again join me to hold meetings each month over the course of the year to provide feedback on how we can improve our schools. We are also considering developing more advisory groups, such as a parental and student advisory group to help us better understand our district from the perspective of all of our stakeholders. We welcome the chance to both share our opportunities and challenges and to address any questions or concerns that you may have. We believe in transparency and addressing the needs of all of our stakeholders.

Again, thank you for the opportunity to serve you and we excitedly look forward to a great school year, in which, we will “relentlessly pursue the exceptional”!

I am truly looking forward to the upcoming school year. The excitement has already begun.

Students have started enrolling and teachers are planning.

Summer sports have been in full swing. If you pay attention, you can almost see the Friday night lights and smell the crayons. There is a certain energy that only happens at the beginning of a school year.

It is a fresh start, a new beginning. Students come to school ready for a new classroom, a new teacher, and new friends. Teachers come to school anxiously awaiting new challenges, fresh faces, and renewed joy. There is just something special in the air.

Each year, I think that it was the best year yet…best students, best teachers, best parents.

Each year, I find that I was wrong. I have come to realize that Warriors have a way of exceeding all possible expectations.

We have celebrated our 4th consecutive 4A Powerlifting State Championship. We are planning a celebration for our 4th consecutive 4A All-Sports Award. We have seen students win individual State Championships. We have implemented several new programs that have shown not only the resourcefulness of our staff, but the eagerness of our students to succeed. Our students and teachers outperform all possible expectations.

Through all the successes, the resilience and hard work of all our Warriors has been the common thread. Whether in the classroom or on the playing field, Warriors excel. Knowing that, I cannot wait to see what our Warriors do during the 2017-2018 school year. It is sure to be an amazing ride, and I am proud to be able to be part of it. Warriors are winners, and I am your biggest fan.

Brock Puckett Superintendent

Dr. Michelle Bivens Superintendent

Wednesday, July 26, 2017

Career Center

Patricia Ellison Director

As the 2017-2018 year is school approaching, let me begin by saying that I am honored to be chosen to lead Pontotoc Ridge Career & Technology Center.

PRCTC has a stellar reputation across the state and proven student success that I plan to continue and improve upon as we move forward.

Whether it’s learning how to teach or learning how to make furniture, we offer a plethora of classes that will intrigue and inspire students as they pick their lifelong careers. Pontotoc Ridge Career & Technology Center offers courses that are aligned with industry standards that allow us to offer our students the opportunity to gain valuable hands-on work experience. Our goal at PRCTC is to ensure that our students are educated, trained and prepared to transition to work or to a Postsecondary institution.

We currently offer the following courses: Furniture Construction, Building Construction, Industrial Maintenance Engineering, Welding, Automotive, Engineering, Simulation & Animation Design, Teacher Academy, Architectural Drafting, Health Science I & II, and AEST(Ag). We are excited to be starting a brand new program called Early Childhood, which will prepare students for employment at a daycare or continued education in the early childhood field.

As the school year starts, my staff and I are eager to meet you and work with you in ensuring the success of our students. You can keep up with what’s going on in our building through our website, as well as our facebook page!

As mentioned, PRCTC has a stellar reputation, and that did not happen by chance. Intentional hard work with a focus on success for ALL students directs our efforts as we relentlessly pursue the exceptional!

We look forward to an Exceptional school year with our students in our pursuit of greatness!

Pontotoc County School District 2017-2018 School Calendar

Pontotoc Progress • pontotoc-progress.com

Wednesday, July 26, 2017

JULY 31 - Professional Development/Teachers & Assistants

AUGUST 1 - Professional Development/Teachers & Assistants 2 - Registration and First Day – All Students SEPTEMBER 4 - Labor Day Holiday 7 - Progress Reports Issued

OCTOBER 4-6 - Nine Weeks/MidSemester Exams 9-11 - Fall Break/Students 11 - Professional Development/Teachers 10:00 a.m. – 3:00 p.m.

11 - Parent/Teacher Conference 3:00 p.m. – 6:00 p.m.

11 - Grades Due in Office 13 - Report Cards Issued

NOVEMBER 7 - Progress Reports Issued 20-24 - Thanksgiving Holidays DECEMBER 13-15 - Exams 15 - End First Semester – 60% day 18-29 - Christmas Holidays

JANUARY 1-3 - Holiday/Students 3 - Professional Development/Teachers 4 - Classes Resume - Begin 2nd Semester 9 - Grades Due in Office 11 - Report Cards Issued 15 - Martin Luther King Holiday FEBRUARY 6 - Progress Reports Issued 19 - Holiday/Students 19 - Professional Development/Teachers 28 - Nine Weeks/MidSemester Exams

MARCH 1-2 - Nine Weeks/MidSemester Exams 6 - Grades Due in Office 8 - Report Cards Issued 12-16 - Spring Break 30 - Good Friday

APRIL 2 - Holiday/Students 2 - Professional Development/Teachers 10 - Progress Reports Issued

MAY 16-17 - Senior Exams 17 - Last Day for Seniors 19 - Graduation—North Pontotoc—10:00 a.m.

19 - Graduation—South Pontotoc—2:00 p.m.

21-23 - Final Exams 23 - End Second Semester— 60% day 23 - Grades Due in Office 24 - Professional Development/Teachers & Assistants 28 - Memorial Day Holiday

Pontotoc City School District 2017-2018 School Calendar

AUGUST l-4 - Professional Development 7 - Students' First Day

SEPTEMBER 4 - Labor Day 6 - Progress Reports October 9 - Columbus Day (no school)

OCTOBER 10 - Professional Development (Students out) 11 - 1st Nine Weeks Report Cards NOVEMBER 8 - Progress Reports 20 - 24 - Thanksgiving Holidays 27 - Dec. 8 - SATP2 Re-test DECEMBER 14-20 - Exams 20 - 60% Day 21 - Professional Development 22 - January 5 - Christmas Holidays

JANUARY 8 - Professional Development 9 - Students Return 10 - 1st Semester Report Cards, District Reading Fair 15 - Martin Luther King Holiday FEBRUARY 7 - Progress Reports 19 - President’s Day (SNOW) 27 - ACT Primary Adminstration

MARCH 20 - ACT Make-up 21 - 3rd Nine Weeks Report Cards 30 - Good Friday

APRIL 2 - Good Monday (SNOW) 18 - Progress Reports 16 - May 18 - 3rd-8th Grade, Algebra I, and English II Tests 16 - May 18 - Spring Star Testing Window 30 - May 11 - 5th and

8th Science Test 30 - May 11 - SATP2 (U.S. History and Biology) MAY 14 -18 - 3rd Grade Summative Retest Window 1 15 - 17 - Senior Exams 17 - Senior Last Day 18 - PHS Graduation 21 - 25 - Exams 25 - 60% Day/Last Day for Faculty

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Pontotoc County Career and Technology Center Staff

Director Patricia Ellison Counselor Leigh Ann Mabry Bookkeeper Amanda Bray Administrative Assistant Leslie Timmons Maintenance/Bus Driver Tim Conlee Construction/ Carpentry Roger Dillard Building Superintendent/Maintenance Dale Faulk Industrial Maintence Engineering Micharl Franks Welding Jeff Gooch

Teacher Academy Dionne Gunter Health Sciences II Jerry Montgomery Furniture Manufacturing Judy Mills Automotive Matt Powell Architecture/Drafting Barry Reeder Early Childhood Bridget Robinson Health Sciences I Shelly Varnon Engineering Chris Webb Mail Courier/Bus Driver Sonnie Williams Agricultural Science Clint Young

Pontotoc County Administrative Support

Superintendent Brock Puckett Superintendent Secretary Mellanie Ferguson Federal Programs Director Dr. Lynnice Carter Federal Programs Assistant Kristen Spears Personnel Manager Sheila Pannell Business Manager Staci Lewis Business Assistant Kathie Barnett Food Service Director Sylvia Massey Food Service Assistant Amanda New Curriculum, Textbook Coordinator and Alternative School Director Dr. Loretta Hartfield Instructional Technology Specialist, ELA Curriculum, and Alternative Director Jason Varnon Curriculum Assistant and

Alternative Assistant Marylyn Roberts Technology Coordinator Melanie Kidd Technology Assistant and MSIS Lisa Roye Technology Support John Garrett Lee Williams Testing, 504 Coordinator and Maintenance Supervisor Dan Bailey Student Services Coordinator Sonya Gilley Student Services Assistant Lawanda Raines Case Manager Tami Harrell Behavioral Intervention Specialist Prudence Hatchett Alternative School Staff Regina Austin - Student Service Teacher Robin Haygood - Alternative Teacher Kim Lily - Alternative Teacher

North Pontotoc Pontotoc Progress • pontotoc-progress.com

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Upper Elementary 5-6

English Language Arts Teachers Brittany Malone - 5th grade Melissa Terry - 5th grade, ELA interventionist Ashley Vanlandingham 5th grade, ELA interventionist Tonya Wilbanks - 6th grade Angela Brown - 6th grade Math Teachers Jennifer Tutor - 5th grade Mallori Corder - 6th grade Amy Wilkins - 5th grade Hillery Wise - 6th grade Science Teachers Nicole Comstock - 6th grade Amber Richardson - 5th grade Student Services and Support Teachers Martha Middlebrooks Special Education Assistant

Charles Eldridge - 5th grade Inclusion Diane Todd - 5th grade Inclusion Ashley Hendrix - 6th grade Inclusion Morgan Baird - Special Education Self-contained Abigail McMillen - 5th and 6th grades Intellectually Gifted, Math Interventionist Jason Terry - 5th grade computer lab, PE assistant Ashley Gillespie - 6th grade computer lab Jeannie Hill - Special Education Assistant Bob Rainer - 5th and 6th grades PE Beth Coghlan – ELL Office Staff Dawn Cooper - Counselor Jennifer Horton - Secretary Evans Gurner - Custodian Sandy Kelley - Librarian Libby Young - Principal

High School 9-12

Chad Anthony - HS Assistant Principal Cee Cee Austin - Family Dynamics/Child Development Lorianne Bennett Secretary Joe Bergeron - Special Services Brad Brown - Special Services Anna Caldwell - English III/Theatre Ali Carnes - Special Services Mandy Carr - Graphic Design/Stem Beth Coghlan - ELL Andy Crotwell - World History/Psych-Soc Rich Dilling Chemistry/Physical Science Shani Earnest - World History Emily Fields - Biology Vivian Flamenco - English II/Spanish Alysha Fletcher - English I Felicia Haulcomb - Biblical History Trey Hill Gov’t/Economics Grace Hooper - Records Cindy Hunsucker - Algebra I/Algebra III/ AP Cal Joe Hunsucker - Algebra Foundations/ Algebra I Jimmie Lessel - Staff Pam Lessel - Staff Brian Lindsay - Band Director/ Gen. Music Matt Lindsey - Physical Education

Kimberly Lott - Algebra II Jeremy Lytal - Geography Lydia Lytal - A&P/AP Biology/Earth Science Kelly Matthews Geometry/ Physics/AP Physics Chris Parman - Health Tabitha Quillian - Study Hall Melissa Reeves - Asst.

Band Director Sheila Ryan - Special Services Nickie Sanders - MSIS Linda McKell - Business Manager Christopher Stevens English IV Chad Stubblefield - Maint.

Brian Sutton - 9th-12th Principal Cynthia Swords - Teacher Assistant Jeannie Thompson Librarian Joy Beth Turner - Special Services Heather Uithoven Counselor Kim Waldrop - U.S. History/AP History Matt Waldrop - P.E/Oral Communication/Debate Jason Warren - Drivers’ Education Anne Wells - Intro Bio/Biology I Bob Wingo - Computer Science/STEM Christy Wise - Art Debbie Wright - ISS

Kindergarten Teachers Evelyn Ferguson Amanda Simmons Tera Spears Brandy Hamilton Cindy Owens Angie McDonald Keedah Hayles Kindergarten Assistant Teachers Ashley Watts Kim Stokes Crystal Matthews Mellanie McWhirter Donna Bailey Jan Robbins Nita Caldwell First Grade Teachers Kristy McCord Emily Russell Shelly Rogers Selena McGregor Leticia Jackson Tonya Graham Mallory Moss Second Grade Teachers Brittany McGreger Becky Malone Gaye Ellis Ashley Moore Katie Robbins

Wednesday, July 26, 2017

Elementary K-4

Kacie Sewell Heather Parman Third Grade Teachers Cindy Coker Veronica Minier Summer Coltharp Heather Mitchell Pam Simmons Keri McDonough Fourth Grade Teachers Lisa Kidd Martina Moore Marcia Russell Cassie Cooper Amanda Little Nikki Yarbrough Reading Coaches Reta Reeder Freda McLaughlin Debra Sappington Cindy Stegall BJ Moore Sonya McLaughlin Reading Coaches Assistant Teachers Nia Brown Vickey Gray Charlene Tallant Karen Anderson Speech Therapist Melissa Cox

Kristin Lauderdale Special Education Teachers Tisha Wallace Ellen Hill Kaleigh Andrews Brooklyn Jones Laurie Allen Ashley Sappington Emily Flora Special Education Assistant Teachers Natasha Collums EL Teachers Lettie Ruiz El-habib Kamal EL Assistant Teacher Eden Caballero Gifted and Talented Teacher Jennifer Wardlaw Elementary Librarian/ Computer Lab Traci McCord Thea Davis BHME/Character Education Kim Wilson Cathy Werner Music/Art/Fine Arts Beth Panes

Forrest Raines Physical Education Brandon Murphree Ginnell Scott Literacy Coach Natalie Akers Academic Coach Jamie Rakestraw Americorp Reading Tutors Kristin Anderson Andria Keith Katie Beth Turner School Nurse Shelia Snyder Guidance Counselor Michelle Bailey Support Therapist Will Ruff Custodians Tim Sanders Linda Scott Jennifer McGee Secretary Sherl Rogers Elementary Assistant Principal Jim Matthews Elementary Principal Terri Smith

Middle School 7-8

English Deborah Chism Megan Cooper Erin Hall Michelle Sutton Science Ann Adams Justin Dorris Diana Wells History Dustin Baldwin Jeremy Lytal

Matt Rayburn Trae Smith Math Andrew Aldridge Chasey, Guerin Ashley Stubblefield ELL Beth Coghlan PE Cee Cee Austin Chris Paraman Matt Waldrop

Jason Warren SPED Heather Crotwell Tabitha Franklin Debbie Norwood Joy Beth Turner Gifted Larry Yager Bible Felecia Haulcomb Band Brian Lindsay

Melissa Reeves ICT Deborah Chism John Harlow April Lindsey Counselor Beth McCuller Secretary Dani Bonilla Principal Paul Ross

North Pontotoc Elementary Schedule

• Monday, July 31 – Elementary Office open (83) to accept Proofs of Residency documents • Tuesday, August 1 – Elementary Office open (83) • Parent Night/Open House – Tuesday, August 1 (Come meet your

teacher and drop-off supplies) - Kindergarten Parent Meeting – 5:45 - 1st & 2nd Grades – 5:45-7:00 - 3rd & 4th Grades – 6:30-8:00 **Grades 1-4 - There will be no classroom visits or supply drop-off before

5:30.* • Wednesday, August 2 All students (Grades 112) report to school – Regular School Day (7:403:15) **Buses will run routes** **Kindergarten Students will have staggered entry

days (August 2-4) and will be contacted by teacher with this information** • Elementary Morning Bell – 7:45 • Breakfast will be served daily - 7:20-7:45 • Cafeteria Prices - $1.30 – Breakfast/$2.75 – Lunch • Afternoon Buses will leave at 3:20.

Upper Elementary 7:20 - 7:40: Breakfast 7:40 - 7:50: Homeroom* 7:50 - 8:45: 1st Period 8:45 - 9:40: 2nd Period 9:40 - 9:50: Break 9:50 - 10:55: 3rd Period 10:55 - 12:15: 4th Period (Lunch) 12:15 - 1:15: 5th Period

1:15 - 2:10: 6th Period 2:10 - 3:05: 7th Period * Your Homeroom and First Period classes are one in the same, Students do not change classes.

Middle School A Lunch 1- 7:45-8:35 2- 8:38-9:28

Break: 9:28-9:36 3- 9:39-10:29 4- 10:32-11:22 5- 11:25-11:50 -Lunch 11:53-12:35 -Viking Zone 6- 12:38-1:28 7- 1:31-2:21 8- 2:24-3:14 A Lunch Teachers: Chism, Cooper, Guerin, Hall, Norwood, Rayburn, Sutton, Waldrop, Yager B Lunch 1- 7:45-8:35 2- 8:38-9:28 Break: 9:28-9:36 3- 9:39-10:29 4- 10:32-11:22 5- 11:25-12:07 -Viking Zone 12:10-12:35 -Lunch 6- 12:38-1:28 7- 1:31-2:21 8- 2:24-3:14 B Lunch Teachers: Adams, Aldridge, Baldwin, Crotwell, Dorris, Franklin, Harlow, Haygood, Lindsey, Smith, Stubblefield High School 7:20: Campus Opens/Staff

Clockin Time 7:40: First Bell 7:45 - 8:35: 1st Period (50 minutes) 7:45 - 9:28: 1st Block (103 minutes) 8:38 - 9:28: 2nd Period (50 minutes) 9:28 - 9:36: Break 9:39 - 10:29: 3rd Period (50 minutes) 9:39 - 11:22: 2nd Block (103 minutes) 10:32 - 11:22: 4th Period (50 minutes) 11:25 - 12:15: 5th Period (50 minutes) 11:25 - 1:28: 3rd Block (103 minutes) 12:18 - 1:28: 6th Period (50 minutes) 12:45 - 1:05: 1st High School Lunch 1:08 - 1:28: 2nd High School Lunch 1:31 - 2:21: 7th Period (50 minutes) 1:31 - 3:14: 4th Block (103 minutes) 2:24 - 3:14: 8th Period (50 minutes)

Bell Schedule for Upper, Middle and High

Back-to-School Special

95

FRAMES & LENSES

$

00

(Clear lenses - single vision or bifocal straight top 28) (No progressive) Expires: September 15, 2017

SHANNON & GRAHAM EYE CLINIC

DR. PHILIP R. GRAHAM - OPTOMETRIST Since 1895

BILL SEAWRIGHT - OPTICIAN • MELANIE SELLERS, TECHNICIAN Office Hours: Monday-Thursday 7 a.m.-5 p.m. • Friday 7 a.m.-Noon

14 E. Marion St. (on the square) Pontotoc, MS

•

489-4741

Elementary Principal Lisa Williamson Elementary Assistant Principal Doug Gentry Elementary Secretary Becky Wages Recordkeepers Julie Moore Pat McCord MSIS Secretary Lori Keith Guidance Counselor Shona Burk Kindergarten Teachers Chanda Ferguson Brooke Franks Janet Sartin Nicole Taylor Stephanie Ward Kara Beth Winter Assistant Kindergarten Teachers Missy Hoing Laci Bain Tammy Austin Lisa Turpin Jean Matthews Natalie Fleming First Grade Teachers Stephanie Austin Heather Corder

South Pontotoc Pontotoc Progress • pontotoc-progress.com

Wednesday, July 26, 2017

Elementary K-5

Amy Davis Katie McKnight Crystal Williams Kris Winter First Assistant First Grade Teachers Patricia Fernandez Kerri Huffman Amanda Montgomery Second Grade Teachers Anita Bailey Holly Brown Brittany Finn Johnie Franks Meaghan Owen Deana Tryon Assistant Second Grade Teachers Gloria Phillips Rebecca Chism Third Grade Teacher Maggie Arnold Johnna Flake Gina Morgan Angela Russell Christie Smith Assistant Third Grade Teachers Denise Rackley Fourth Grade Teacher Shunda Gillespie Lori Harrison Merilee Jaggers

Middle School registration

South Pontotoc Middle School will have half day registration days beginning today, July 26.

July 26th for 8th Graders 8a-12p July 27th for 7th Graders

8a-12p July 28th for 6th Graders 8a-12p Meet-the-Principal/ Registration Night August 1st 5p-7p

1st Period: 7:45-8:40 2nd Period: 8:44-9:39 Break: 9:39-9:45 3rd Period: 9:47-10:42 4th Period: 10:46-12:01 Lunch A: 10:46-11:11

Lunch B: 11:36-12:01 Lunch C: 12:06-12:31 Lunch D: 12:56-1:21 5th Period: 12:06-1:21 6th Period: 1:25-2:15 7th Period: 2:19-3:14

Middle School Bell Schedule

Melissa Kitchens Lori Pennington Deanna Reynolds Assistant Fourth Grade Teachers Charity Vandiver Fifth Grade Teachers Deirdre Brown Nicole Carter Jessica Cox Faith Johnson Susan Kimmett April Phillips Assistant Fifth Grade Teachers Sherhanda Johnson Art Lisa Bost Computer Lab Annie Bost Bible Teachers Michael Holcomb Mae Treloar ELL Teacher Jennifer Wright Assistant ELL Teacher Kimberly Powell Gifted Teachers Nancy Cossey Holloway Mary Harmon Custodian Gary Cobb Librarian Mitzi Ward

Courtney Allen - English 4 Oral Communication Missy Belcher - Spec Services Michael Bradley - MS Admin Football Bryan Buckner - World History Lisa Buckner - English 2 Staff Name Cynthia Chambers Biology 2 A&P Brandy Clingan - Library Sheree Collins - AP Calculus, Algebra 3, Algebra 2 Rod Cook - Geometry, Football, Powerlifting James Franks - AP Biology, Biology Jeff Harmon - Government, Economics, Basketball Susan Gillespie - Spec.

Services Hannah Gregory - English 1 Brandy Higgason - Algebra 1 Michael Holcomb - Biblical History

Music Teacher Brandi Rakestraw Nurse Lee Ann Wilson Parent Center/ISS Assistant Melinda Shields Physical Education Teacher Collin McGregor Assistant Physical Education Teacher Darla Grubbs Academic Coaches Stacy McNatt Aymber Warren Reading Coach Jennifer Duncan Special Services Teachers Angela Barnett Tiffany Bowen Paige Cook Christi Cowsert Sherrye Irby Autumn Ritchie Destiny Wade Special Services Assistants Dianne Baker Helen Bowen Tonya Smith Speech Julie Morris

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Middle School 6-8

6th Grade Vickie Kitchens - Science Amanda Grubbs - ELA Lance Carter - Social Studies Mandy Gaspard Mathematics Marcy Brown - ICT 1 7th Grade Payton Curbow - ELA Regina Hall - Science Andrea Brown Mathematics Kelly Clark - World History Jason Ritchie - ICT 2 Stephanie Burnett ELA/Math Brett Freeman Science/World History/PE 8th Grade John Roberts - ELA Megan Franks - Science Megaen Smith Mathematics Hank Harmon - MS Studies/World Geography Mason Luther - US History Special Services

High School 9-12 Laura Howard - US History, Advanced World Geography Cheryl Malone STEM/ECS Business Sarah Manning - Spec Services Murphy Meek - Spec Services Cage Mills - World History, US History Shane Murphree - STEM, Foundations of Algebra Adam Patterson - Health Drivers Ed Valerie Pilcher - Spec Services Martin Rodgers - AP Language, English 3, Psycology/Sociology Wendy Rogers - Spec Services Bill Russell - PE, Drivers Ed Sharon Schaefer - AP Physics, Chemistry, Physical Science

Mark Vandiver - Debate, MS Studies/ World Geography Leslie Warren - Spec.

Services Jeremy White - Pre Biology, Family Dynamics Vance Wigginton - Band Sandra Wise - Art 1, Art 2, Art 3 Steve Henderson Maintenance Alisa Bourne - Counselor Lori Keith - MSIS Pat McCord - Bookkeeper Julie Moore - Records Clerk

Dawn Hester (Gifted) Dana Roberts Kelly McClain Tammy Swords Regenia Foster Linda Tackett Athletics Jeff Cook - PE/Football Dale Wigginton Assistant Band Director John Roberts - Archery and Cross Country Lance Carter - Assistant Baseball Mason Luther - Assistant Football Administration and Staff Ben Moore - Principal Lisa Taylor - Secretary Michael Bradley - Asst.

Principal Holly Morgan Counselor Cheryl Williams Custodian Sarah Crudup Custodian Barry Mathews - Study Hall

Donna Morgan - High School Secretary Custodians Lynn Sartin W. C.Vance Teaching Assistants Hoing, Sonia McCullough, Cynthia Parker, Lori Florez, Rhonda Robertson, Kim Zamarippa, Tammy Administration Jimmy Flake Brant Puckett

Back to school means: Tailgating time!

~Let us make your custom cupcakes!

Caffeine time!

~Stop by our quick drive-thru to pick up your morning coffee drinks to get you going!

Treat time!

~Come in after school to enjoy a cupcake, homemade ice cream, cookies or smoothies!

Mom time!

~Drop off the kids and come relax in Pontotoc's only coffeehouse with a nice latte and free wifi!

Located in the Piggly Wiggly Shopping Center Lot

247-A West Oxford Street Pontotoc

662-489-4000

www.happydaycafe.net

Pontotoc City Pontotoc Progress • pontotoc-progress.com

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Elementary K-2

Kindergarten Teachers Maurie Cother Leslie Hilliard Diana Fuqua Mandy Maffett Melissa Parmer Penny Spears Jennifer Tutor Ashley Mooneyham Learning Associates Nan Anderson Kawana Wade Tammy Browning Lisa Westmoreland Tonya Smith Mary Helen Lyons Leticha Heflin-Word Temeca Williams First GradeTeachers Kellon Duff Ginger Bethune Leslie Ward Jessica Perkins Melissa Roberson Courtney Foster Christian McRaney Pat Richardson Kim Homan Learning Associates Amelia Carnes Bridget Taylor Second GradeTeachers Cindy Calvert Tina Browning

Sonja Hobson Zach Gory Tiffany Russell Emily Windham Lorena Tucker Lori Hamill Nathan Bailey Learning Associates Paige Enis Christy Gory Special Education Laynne Earnest Krista McCreight Angela Cooley Curt Sparks Learning Associates Kelly Ginn Ashley Huddleston Tiffany Ashcraft SLP Evelyn Anderson Veronica Palmer-Ferguson Art Sherry Donaldson Biblical History Kim Wilson Ladonna Hutchinson Computer Stephanie Ball ELL Joy Chunn Learning Associate Charquita Stalnaker Gifted/UFO

Kim Baldwin Librarian Micah Russell Music Courtney Rutherford PE Michelle Purdon Nurse Reagan Kirby Counselor Penny Kidd Secretary Lynette Sappington – MSIS Ginger Ethridge Interventions Sarah Burrell Janitorial Melissa Virges Curtis Hannah Cafeteria Dee Stewart (Manager) Trish Edwards (Assistant Manager) Kim Golden Marty Collins Michelle Gates Becky Long Felicia Pegues Octavious Ward Principal Avence Pittman, Jr. Assistant Principal Sherron Horton

D.T. Cox 3-4

Third Grade Laurie Bishop Haylee Collums Becky Jennings Pakita King Jessica Luther Jessica Nichols Kathy Whiteside Janet Barefoot Fourth Grade Ty (Denman) Spicer Emily Vandiver Beth Wray Anna Holmes Jessica Freeman Brenda Whitworth Allison Clingan Haley Franks Ginger Heatherly Gifted Jenna Patterson Misty Vinyard Special Education Lisa Ferguson Hilary Parish

Kathy Laughery Lauren Haney Learning Associates Awdry Aurre Sandra Williams SLP Becky Butts ELL Rachel Chrestman Librarian Kristy Dowdy PE Janet Farr Music Leslie Mitchell Computer Lab Brandy Ball Art Kalista Stanford Intervention Learning Associates Lesia Holley Vickie Westmoreland Learning Associates Shirley McKinney

Melina Randolph Secretary Judy Cook Nurse Lerissa Robbins Counselor Kelli Warren Janitorial Marcus Hurd Duane Huddleston Cafeteria Jennifer Hannah (Manager) Nefrita Quince (Assistant Manager) Irinda Collier Deanna Farr Brenda Johnson Sarah Wilson Principal Christy Suggs Assistant Principal/ Instructional Coach Kassi Mask

Fifth Grade Valerie Crawford Shanna Daniel Hope Wingo Ashley Allen Carol Jaggers Jared Wilson Kari Anna Davis Laverne Richardson Sixth Grade Jacob Kent Mallory Emison Charlotte Whitworth Angel Borland Shannon Carwyle Nathan Young Reed McRaney Debra Vaughn

Band Sarah Todd Richie Watson Keith Morgan Gifted Betsy Ritchie Monica Baldwin Nurse Lerissa Robbins Computer Science Kim Koon Jonathan Beard Special Education Hannah Mims Murray Collum Amanda Glover Joanna Manning (SLP) Cafeteria

Pat McGowan (Manager) Twila Butler Ranae Montgomery Patsy Russell Andy Topp LaShun Williams LaKeisha Johnson Janitorial Jason Collins Secretary Melina Nesbitt Counselor Nikki Hester Principal Gwyn Russell Assistant Principal/ Instructional Coach Angela Harris

Middle School 5-6

Wednesday, July 26, 2017

Junior High 7-8

Art Tessa Morrison Band Sarah Todd English Lori Wilson Gina Bramlett Terrena Kyle Amy Holladay Shelbie Kidd ICT/Stem Gala Duff Michael Wildmon Teresa Keys Math Katy Witt Marley Russell Annie McGregor Kayla Tidwell PE/Health Wanda Hatcher Brian Morgan Science

Chase Clark Kaitlyn Hardin Anderson Christy Murray Social Studies Richard Chrestman Jordan Thompson Kyle Walker Spanish Michelle Turonek Special Education Alisha Jackson Gretta Morgan Neal Hobson Anna Donaldson Larose Hunter SLP Joanna Manning Learning Associate Kim Hall Biblical History Kevin Morrow Janitorial Latonya White

Dennis White Cafeteria Pat McGowan (Manager) Twila Butler Ranae Montgomery Patsy Russell Andy Topp LaShun Williams LaKeisha Johnson Nurse Mitzie Russell Librarian Jessica Humphreys Secretary Jennifer Mansfield Counselor Kelsey Cruse Principal Phil Webb Assistant Principal/ Instructional Coach Marsha Hillhouse

Art Donna McCullar Band Keith Morgan Sarah Todd Richie Watson Biblical History Kevin Morrow Drivers Ed Mac Holland Cory Armstrong English Justin Varnon Dena Holley Allison Armstrong Colleen Parman Kayla Sartin Christy Simpson Tami Walls Health/PE Aaron Heard Marty Warren Trey Ward Library Camille Rodgers Math Sam James Melanie Bean Tyler Moore Dorothy Thomas

Matthew Young Science Tyler Arnold Crystal Bigham Jerritt Alford Kimmy Nicholson Carolyn Smith Carol Wilgus Spanish Melinda Bell Onnika Chaffin Social Studies Jeff Carter Samuel Collier Melissa Griffith Josh Dowdy Andy McGregor Collin Stubblefield Melinda Pittman Justin Jensen Special Education Donna Akers Renea Gazaway Teresa Hugya Johnny Jackson Venetta Duff SLP Becky Butts Learning Associate Kathy Tackitt

Technology/Business Angie Davis Counselor Brittany Rowe Blair Finley Nurse Mitzi Russell Secretarial Alisa Ferguson Tracy Kramer School Resource Officer Kevin Rodgers Cafeteria Lajean Heatherly (Manager) Quple Dunlap (Assistant Manager) Jonathan Butler Kelli McGreger Linda McEwen Steve Carnes Janitor Tracy Boland Chuck Patrick Thelma Heard Steve Johnson Principal Ken McGaha Assistant Principal Dustin Payne

High School 9-12

Central Office

Superintendent Dr. Michelle Bivens Assessment/ Professional Development Director Courtney Beard Federal Programs/Human Resources Director Jay Hughes Athletics Director Austin McNair Food Services Director Dianne Newsom Curriculum and Instruction Director Angie Quinn Business Manager Beverly Anderson Superintendent Secretary/Board

Secretary Michelle Martin Payroll Clerk/Personnel Janet Hanna Receptionist/Accounts Payable Kim Moore District MSIS/Data Specialist Tracye Crane Student Services Courtney Beard (Coordinator) Suzanne Owens (Transition/Vocational/Alte rnative Assessment Coordinator) Technology Jessie Jones (Director) Jamye Bennett (Technician)

Maintenance/Transpor tation Wally Windham (Director) Jason Chrestman (Mechanic) Ben Russell (Mechanic) Mike Gregory (Maintenance) Randy Stewart (Maintenance) Chuck Patrick (Maintenance/ Custodian) Alternative School Peggy Jolly Mickey Mapp Jamie Browning James Barnes (Learning Associate) Angie Gillen (Learning Associate)

Meet the New Pontotoc City Staff Members Pontotoc Progress • pontotoc-progress.com

Wednesday, July 26, 2017

Pontotoc Elementary School

Ashley Mooneyham, Kindergarten Teacher Ashley Mooneyham was born in Okinawa, Japan, but has lived in Lafayette County her entire life. She attended the Lafayette County Schools and graduated in 2009. She is a 2013 graduate of North West Mississippi Community College with an Associates of Arts degree.

Ashley is a 2015 Delta State University graduate with a Bachelor’s of Science in Education. She has previously taught at Davidson Elementary School in Water Valley, MS. She a member of Midway United Methodist Church where she plays the piano each Sunday. This summer, she will marry Brent Heatherly and move to Ecru.

Christian McRaney, First Grade - Christian McRaney is a 2008 graduate of Pontotoc High School. During her years at PHS, she was a member of the basketball and cross-country teams. She was a part of a mentoring tutor group at Pontotoc Elementary School. This work prompted her career direction and love for young students.

Christian pursued her degree from Blue Mountain College.

Christian is looking forward to returning to PES after a leave for mission service with Ugandan children. She and her husband, Reed, still live in Pontotoc.

Kellon Duff, First Grade Kellon Duff is a 2011 graduate of Pontotoc High School. After finishing high school, she went to the University of Mississippi seeking an Elementary Education degree. Kellon completed her student teaching at Pontotoc Elementary School and graduated with her bachelor's degree in May of 2016. In June of 2016, she started her Master's program. She finished her Masters of Education in Curriculum and Instruction in May of 2017. This will be Kellon's first year teaching, and she is excited for the opportunity to be a Warrior again.

Zach Gory, Second Grade John Zachary Gory is a 2012 alumnus of Pontotoc High School. During his time as a Warrior, Zach graduated top five in his class, served as council member for Fellowship of Christian Athletes, and earned 14A all-division twice as a member of the baseball team. Next, Zach earned an Associates of Arts degree from Itawamba Community College where he was inducted into Phi Theta Kappa. In 2017, Zach graduated Summa Cum Laude with a Bachelor of Science in Education from Blue Mountain College. As a student at Blue Mountain College, Zach served as president of Kappa Delta Pi honors society and received the 2016-2017 Most Outstanding Intern in education.

Nathan Bailey, Second Grade - Nathan Bailey is a graduate of South Pontotoc High School and Blue Mountain College. He enjoys sharing his love for reading with his students by going on adventures in a good book. He believes that being fair to his students is not giving them all the same thing, but giving each one everything they need to succeed. He has been teaching second grade in Calhoun County for the last two years. He, his wife, and three children look forward to being back with friends and family in Pontotoc.

Micah Russell, Librarian Micah Russell attended Pontotoc High School and recently graduated Blue Mountain College. Micah has endorsements in library media, biology, social studies, ELA, Bible, and general science.

Micah enjoys the challenge of making learning fun for students. Micah recently married; he and his wife, Mary Beth, have made their home in Pontotoc County.

Leslie Ward, First Grade Leslie Ward is a native of Starkville, MS and a Mississippi State University graduate in Elementary Education. Leslie is entering her 11th year in the classroom. She has previously taught in the Houston, Booneville, Tupelo and West Point school districts. Leslie is married to Trey Ward, teacher and football coach at Pontotoc High School. They have two daughters, two-year old Landry and newborn Anne Braxton.

Krista McCreight, Special Education - Krista McCreight

was a Warrior from Kindergarten to 7th grade. She moved to New Albany where she graduated from W. P. Daniel High School in 2001.

Then, she attended Northeast Community College and furthered her education at Blue Mountain College. She graduated in 2005 with a bachelor in Elementary Education. Right after graduation, she married Brent McCreight. They have two children, Walker (8) and South (2). They are members of Troy First Baptist Church.

She is entering her 13th year of teaching.

Curt Sparks, Special Education - Curt has worked with inclusion and self-contained students for years in the school district setting. He has gained a lot of experience and knowledge working and also by receiving his M.Ed. in Special Education. He is currently working towards an Educational Specialist degree in Educational Leadership and will begin a Doctorate degree once he is finished.

Melissa Virges, Custodian Melissa Virges is the proud mother of four amazing children, Anthony (21), Jacques (19), Lauren (10), and London (5). She attends church at Wilson Chapel M.B. Church where she is a youth leader, choir member, and participate in missionary She is a 4-year licensed cosmetologist. In her spare time, she enjoys spending quality time with her family, crafting, and reading.

Curtis Hannah, Custodian Curtis worked at D.T. Cox for a year and a half in the cafeteria.

He played college football in Missouri. He moved here about 6 years ago from New Mexico.

He has seven kids, and two attend Pontotoc Schools. He also has one grandchild. His wife also works for Pontotoc Schools, and that’s how he ended up in Pontotoc.

Emily Vandiver, Fourth Grade - Emily Vandiver is a 2000 graduate of North Pontotoc High School. She graduated from The University of Mississippi in 2004 with a Degree in Bachelor’s Elementary Education. Emily has a Master’s Degree in Curriculum and Instruction from The University of Mississippi and is a National Board Certified Teacher. She has thirteen years of teaching experience at South Pontotoc where she taught at the elementary and high school level.

Emily is married to Mark Vandiver, and they have two daughters, Lyla Kate, age 8 and Linley, age 4.

Kalista Stanford, Art Kalista Stanford is a graduate of Pontotoc High School, Class of 2000, and a 2004 graduate of Mississippi University for Women with a Bachelor of Fine Arts degree. She has worked as a paraprofessional at Pontotoc City Schools for 10 years.

Hilary Parrish, Special Education - Hilary Parrish is a 2011 graduate from Pontotoc High School. After graduating high school, she attended Blue Mountain College from 20112016 where she received her degrees: Bachelor of Science and Bachelor of Science in Education. She was a member of the Kappa Delta Pi Society for honors in education and received President’s List, Dean’s List, and the Johnny Armstrong Award for Physical Education for academics. During her college career, she played softball for four years where she received a Scholar Athlete award and the 110% award in softball. After completing her student teaching during fall semester of 2016, she was able to start her teaching career as an assistant teacher at D.T. Cox. spring semester of 2017. She is very excited to see what the future holds in her career as a teacher at D.T. Cox Elementary.

Becky Butts - Becky Butts is a graduate of Pontotoc High School and resident of Pontotoc.

She attended Northeast Community College before transferring to the University of Mississippi where she obtained her Bachelor and Master’s degrees in Communication Disorders. She has been working as a Speech Language Pathologist since 2000 and has 14 ? years of experience.

D.T. Cox

Monica Baldwin, Sixth Grade Gifted - Monica is a 2008 Pontotoc High School graduate. She is certified in elementary education, art, gifted education, and ELA. Monica joins her mom, Kim Hall, and her mother-in-law, Kim Baldwin who are also employees within the district. Monica is a gifted artist and talented writer; she will bring much creativity to the middle school environment.

Kari Anna Davis - Kari Anna Davis is a Pontotoc High School graduate, and she and her family still reside in Pontotoc County. Mrs. Davis spent her first-year teaching seventh grade math in the Amory School District. Her knowledge of upper level standards will assist in building a math foundation for the Pontotoc Middle School fifth graders.

Amanda Glover, Special Education - Amanda Glover has both elementary and special education endorsements. Her expertise on the general education side will be a valuable resource for her as she transitions to the inclusion classroom at Pontotoc Middle School.

Amanda has taught in the Tupelo Public Schools for years but is excited about being able to teach where she lives. She and her family are active members of Longview Baptist Church.

Hannah Mims, Special Education - Hannah Mims just finished her student teaching at Pontotoc Middle School under the supervision of Mrs. Debra Vaughn. Hannah holds elementary, special education, science, and Spanish endorsements. She is relational and an extremely hard worker.

Hannah’s Spanish background will help us bridge communication gaps with the parents of our ELL students.

Reed McRaney, Sixth Grade Science - Reed and his wife Christian are both Pontotoc High School graduates who are returning to Pontotoc after a leave for mission work. Reed is an elementary education major who also has a math background. He will be instrumental in helping the middle school integrate STEM into the instructional set.

Nathan Young, Sixth Grade Science - Nathan and his wife Kelsey, both Pontotoc High School graduates, are excited about Nathan’s return to Warrior Country. During his high school years, Nathan was a highly successful XC runner and was involved in many clubs and activities. Nathan is relational and will serve as a positive role model for the PMS fifth and sixth graders. He is an elementary education major but has math teaching experience at the secondary level as well.

Pontotoc Middle School

Pontotoc Junior High Kaitlyn Anderson, Science Kaitlyn Anderson was raised in Pontotoc and graduated from PHS in 2009. She attended Mississippi State University and earned Bachelor of Science degrees in Biology and Animal and Dairy Science. After completing her undergraduate studies, she attended Virginia Tech, where she completed her Master of Science in Lactation Physiology and worked as a research associate for the Department of Dairy Science.

After marrying her husband, she moved to Louisiana and began her teaching career at Castor High School.

Neal Hobson, Special Education - As a former graduate of Pontotoc High School, Coach Neal Hobson is proud to be returning in the capacity of Junior High Football and Assistant High School Baseball coach. He previously served Pontotoc as a SPED instructor and Assistant Junior High football and baseball coach. Coach Hobson received his degree at Mississippi Valley State University, where he received a 4-year scholarship to play baseball. Prior to his previous coaching experience at Pontotoc, Coach Hobson was instrumental in re-starting the baseball and softball program at Holly Springs High School in Holly Springs Ms. After spending the last 3 years at Houston Middle School, Coach Hobson is returning to the “Hollow.”

Gina Bramlitt - Gina Bramlitt is a lifelong resident of Pontotoc County. She graduated from North Pontotoc Attendance Center in 2003 and then ICC in 2005, both with honors, in the pursuit of a teaching degree. In 2015, she decided to return to school to finish with a B.A. in Secondary Education at the University of Mississippi where she graduated with honors in May of this year.

Chase Clark, Science Chase Clark is a 2012 graduate of Bruce High School. He was a member of the baseball team for 6 years. After high school, he went to Northwest Community College where he played baseball for 2 years. During those years, he was named MACJC player of the week, NJCAA player of the week, and his sophomore year named 2nd Team All-MACJC. After Northwest, he went to Mississippi State University where he earned a Bachelor of Science in Interdisciplinary Studies.

Kyle Walker, Social Studies - Kyle Walker graduated from Pontotoc in 2010, where he was a member of the football and baseball team. He attended Itawamba Community College and went on to graduate from Mississippi State University with a degree in Special Education. Kyle started his teaching career at Mantachie High School. He then worked for the Amory School District and the Corinth School District.

He has coached multiple sports at his previous schools and will be coaching football and soccer at Pontotoc.

Lori Wilson, English - Lori Wilson joins Pontotoc Junior High as one of the 8th grade English teachers. She has been teaching for 13 years with experience in grades 3-8 and has a Master’s in School Administration. Outside of school, Lori enjoys spending time with her two children, Andrew and Zoe, along with watching sports and baking.

Michael Wildmon, STEM Michael Wildmon is a 2000 graduate of New Site High School. After high school, he attended Northeast MS Community College for 2 years, and then transferred to Mississippi State University.

There, he graduated with his Bachelor of Science degree in Secondary Education in 2004.

He has been in education for 12 years. He has been married to Brittnie Wildmon for 8 years, and they have 2 children, Alexia (13) and Bayley (6).

Marley Russell, Math Marley Russell lives in Ecru, MS, but grew up and went to school at Pine Grove. After high school, she attended college at ICC, and then moved on to Blue Mountain College. She graduated from Blue Mountain College in May 2009 with a Bachelor of Science degree in Mathematics.

She taught 2 years at Pontotoc High School and 6 years at Saltillo High School. She married the love of her life, Matt Russell, in March 2008. They have two beautiful children, Cason (6) and Caylen (3). She and her husband are the pastor at Endville Baptist Church.

Amy Holliday, English Amy Holliday is a lifelong resident of Pontotoc and a graduate of South Pontotoc and the University of Mississippi. She is married to Keith Holladay. They have one daughter, Olivia, who is married to Josh Purdon. They are members of West Heights Baptist Church. She has nine years teaching experience as English/Language Arts teacher at South Pontotoc Middle School.

Jordan Thompson, Social Studies - Jordan Thompson is a 2013 graduate of Hickory Flat Attendance Center. He was a member of the basketball team for 4 years. After high school, he went to Itawamba Community College where he worked with the men's basketball team. After ICC, he attended Blue Mountain College where he earned a Bachelor of Science in Secondary Education. He is excited to be able to start his teaching and coaching career at Pontotoc.

Kay Witt, Math - Katy is a 2005 graduate of Pontotoc High School and a 2009 graduate of Mississippi State University.

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Katy has taught eight years across multiple grade levels and will be teaching 7th grade math at Pontotoc Junior High.

Shelbie Kidd, English Shelbie Kidd is a 2017 graduate of the University of Mississippi with a Bachelor of Arts Education with concentrations in English Language Arts, Special Education, and Social Studies. She is a lifelong resident of Pontotoc and is a 2013 graduate of South Pontotoc High School. She is engaged to Jonathan McKnight and has to plans to wed in October They will reside in the Beckham community.

Kayla Tidwell, Math Kayla Tidwell is a 2008 graduate of Saltillo High School.

Upon graduation, she attended Itawamba Community College from 2008-2010 where she was an active member of the dance line, choir, and chamber choir.

From 2010-2014, she attended the University of Mississippi where she received a bachelor's degree in Elementary Education and a master's degree in Curriculum and Instruction.

Kayla taught 2nd/3rd grade mathematics at Verona Elementary from 2014-2017.

Jessica Humphreys, Librarian - Jessica is a graduate of Saltillo High School. She earned an Associate Degree from Itawamba Community College before pursuing her Bachelor Degree at the University of Mississippi. Since, she has completed her Master’s Degree from Arkansas State University. Jessica recently got married.

Blair Finley, Counselor Blair is a native of Amory Mississippi and a graduate from Hatley High School. Her educational qualifications include an Associates of Arts degree from Itawamba Community College (2011), a Bachelor of Science in Communicated Sciences and Disorders from Mississippi University for Women (2013), and a Master of Science in School Counseling from Mississippi State University (2015). She has worked as a middle school counselor for the past 2 years in DeSoto County and is excited to make the transition to the high school setting.

Melanie Bean, Math Melanie Bean is from Memphis, Tennessee. She married to my best friend, and they have a son and daughter-in law. She graduated from the University of Mississippi in 2002 with a B.A.Ed. in Mathematics Education. She graduated in 2012 from the University of Memphis with a B.B.A. with a major in Accounting. She is excited to be given the opportunity to teach at Pontotoc High School. She hopes to spend many years in my new teaching position.

Venetta Duf, Special Education - Venetta Sibley Duff graduated from PHS in 1981, Mississippi State in 1984 with Bachelor's and in 1985 with Master's degrees in Elementary Education. She has taught at the University Village Preschool at MSU and in the Vicksburg-Warren School district. She also holds an endorsement in Remedial Reading and is certified to teach Special Education. She is married to Al Duff and they have two children, Daynalee Ferguson (Jeremy) and Andrew Duff.

Justin Varnon, English Justin Varnon is a 2000 graduate of North Pontotoc High School and a 2005 graduate of the University of Mississippi with a Bachelor of Arts degree in Secondary Education.

Mr. Varnon has worked in public education for twelve years and is currently pursuing a Master’s Degree in Educational Leadership through Arkansas State University. Married to Cassandra Gang of Mantachie, Mr. Varnon has one son, Preston, and one daughter, Ella, due in October.

Trey Ward, Health/PE Trey Ward is a 2005 graduate of Booneville High School. Trey attended Northeast Mississippi Community College for 2 years before transferring to Mississippi State University where he earned his Bachelor of Science degree in Secondary

Pontotoc High School

Education. Coach Ward spent last year at Houston High School. Before his time in Houston, he spent 4 years at Booneville High School. Coach Ward spent one season as the Wide Receivers coach at Northeast Mississippi Community College. Trey is married to the former Leslie Brett of Starkville. Leslie will be teaching 1st grade this fall at Pontotoc Elementary School.

They have a 2-year-old daughter, Landry and a newborn, Anne Braxton.

Matthew Young, Math Matthew Young born and raised in Pontotoc, Mississippi. He graduated from PHS in 2008 thanks to some phenomenal teachers that influenced his passion for teaching. He received an Associate’s degree from ICC in 2010 and a Bachelor of Science in Secondary Mathematics from Mississippi State University in 2013. He completed a Masters of Education from Belhaven University in 2015. He is currently pursuing an Education Specialist degree in Educational Leadership at Arkansas State University. He taught in Desoto County for 4 years. He is a Christian who has been saved

by God’s grace, and he married Breann in 2015. They have a 9month-old son named Joshua and are expecting another child in February 2018 Jerritt Alford, Science Jerritt Alford is a 2008 graduate of Vardaman High School. He attended Itawamba Community College for two years before transferring to Mississippi State University where he earned a Bachelor of Science degree in Secondary Education. During the summer of 2016, he earned his Masters of Science and Sport Administration. Coach Alford spent the last year at Houston High School coaching football and track, while teaching Biology. Before his time at Houston High School, he worked at Saltillo High School and Ethel High School. Prior to Saltillo and Ethel, Jerritt's first job was teaching at Columbus Alternative School.

Kimmy Nicholson, Science - Kimmy Nicholson is a 2009 graduate of Nettleton High School. After finishing high school, she went to Itawamba Community College from 20102011. Coach Nicholson continued her softball career at Blue Mountain College. Coach Nicholson graduated in 2013 with a bachelor’s degree in biology. Coach Nicholson began her coaching career at Pontotoc in 2015.

Josh Dowdy, Social Studies - Josh Dowdy is a 1998 graduate of Pontotoc High School. After finishing his high school career, he went to Northeast Mississippi Community College where he played two years for the Tigers.

Josh graduated from Ole Miss in 2002 in Secondary Education.

Coach Dowdy then began his coaching career at Pontotoc.

Coach Dowdy was hired at Bruce High School. Coach Dowdy completed 4 seasons at Bruce High School. After finishing the 2015 season, Coach Dowdy took over the baseball program at Kossuth High School. Coach Dowdy is married to the former Ashley Akers, a 1999 graduate of Pontotoc High School. They have 2 children, Lyge (4) and Ada Grace (5 months).

Justin Jensen, Social Studies - Justin Jensen is a graduate of Pontotoc High School.

He went to Itawamba Community College on a golf scholarship and later attended the University of Mississippi.

He received his bachelor’s degree in history and minored in education. He has been the paraprofessional assistant coach for the girls’ soccer program since 2015.

Chuck Patrick, Custodian Chuck is a graduate of Northwest Community College and Mississippi State University with a Bachelor Degree in Agricultural Business. He also attended Kanakuk Institute for training in Youth Ministry. He has been employed as a manager or supervisory in several local manufacturing factories. He is also the Bi-Vocational Student Minister at Furrs Baptist Church. He is married to Maggie and has three children.

North Pontotoc Upper Elementary hosting Supply Drop Off Night Pontotoc Progress • pontotoc-progress.com

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Wednesday, July 26, 2017

North Pontotoc Upper Elementary School will be hosting Supply Drop Off Night on July 31st from 4:007:00, announced Upper Elementary Principal Libby Young.

This is a come and go event. Students can pick up schedules, meet teachers and drop off any school supplies that have been purchased.

Fees may also be paid at this time. Any fines from last year will need to be paid at this time in order for student

to receive schedule.

Parents can also provide proofs of residency this night.

Please keep in mind that providing 2 proofs of residency is state law and must be done at the beginning of each school year.

Please call 489-2295 if you have any questions.

Come anytime from 4:007:00 to get your schedule, meet your teachers, drop off your supplies, and pay your fees.

You can pick up your schedule in the multi-purpose room/cafeteria when you arrive for supply drop off.

Viking Volunteers and school personnel will be happy to show you around.

Fees will be paid to content area teachers.

“Please bring cash, or be prepared to write separate checks for each fee. We look forward to meeting you!”

Young said.

Supplies include: Homeroom (will turn in at supply drop off) 1 container of Clorox wipes 2 rolls paper towels 2 boxes of Kleenex Germ-X $5 Fee

Math Leave with math teacher at Supply Drop off or first day of school $10 fee to be used to purchase notebook/journal supplies Keep in your backpack.

Do not turn in to the teacher 5th grade only - 1 - 1 inch 3 ring binder 6th grade only- basic 4 function calculator, no graphing calculators Language Arts Leave with LA teacher at Supply Drop off or first day of school

$15 fee (to purchase binders and all supplies for ELA) 5th grade novels: Tuck Everlasting (1st 9 weeks) 6th grade novels: Hatchet (1st 9 weeks) ***Novels are not required but highly recommended-letters will be sent home with an extended book list during the school year.

Science Leave with science teacher at Supply Drop off or first day of school 1 pack white copy paper 1 pack of loose leaf notebook paper

Boys: 20 pack of sheet protector Girls: 1-24 pack of wooden pencils (standard no decorative) 1- 3 pk clear tape $10 fee to be used to purchase lab supplies Keep in your backpack.

Do not turn in to the teacher 1 - 1 inch 3 ring binder Computer Lab Students will use Earbuds in computer lab. Each student can purchase their own to keep in their backpack or they can be purchased in the computer lab as needed throughout the year.

To be eligible for free/reduced lunch students must complete a lunch application for the current year.

Students who were free/reduced at the end of 2016-2017 school year will be allowed to eat on the

same status for no longer than 30 days or until a new application is processed.

All students who were not

free or reduced during the 2016-2017 school year, new enrollees, or transfers from another school distict will be

considered full paid and will need to bring money until an application is processed.

Parents may complete a

lunch application online beginning July 29th. To do so, parents will go to the Pontotoc County School District Website and click on lunch menus and apply online. Completing the application online allows applications to be approved in a more timely manner.

Please list all students you are applying for in your family on one application.

You can also set up an account to pay online and/or view your child’s lunch or breakfast activity. You can view and make payments from your smartphone. Also can be set to alert you when balance in low. When setting up a new acccount, a MSIS number will be required.

Feel free to call 489-2011 for that number and/or for assistance.

Also, negative balances from 2016-2017 school year will roll over into 20172018 school year allowing parents more time to get cafeteria account into good standing.

Again, if you need any assistance of any kind, please feel free to call 4892011.

David Helms

Pontotoc Progress

County Schools now offering online applications and payments

The average child spends 6 hours a day in front of an electronic device. Protect their eyes from the harmful blue light rays in electronic screens, which can increase risk of macular changes, cataracts and other eye conditions including sleep disorders. Our optical shop is offering free upgrade to light protection lenses with the purchase of frame and basic lens for all students in the month of August.

Some restrictions may apply.

All outside prescriptions WELCOME

Schedule an appointment today!

Matthew B.Wesson, M.D. Fred H. Mothershed, O.D. Dax M. Eckard, O.D. Sonya M. Miles, M.D. Chelsea M. McKnight, O.D.

3353 North Gloster • Tupelo, MS 844-3555 or 1-800-280-7372 www.wandmeyes.com