The Southampton Spotlight-December 2023 Edition

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December 2023 EDITION

The Southampton Spotlight A Southampton County Public Schools Publication

Building a Strong Captured from left to right: Camilla Lopez and Sincere Person

Dear SCPS Parents, Guardians, and Community Members, As we approach the conclusion of 2023, let's take a moment to celebrate the remarkable achievements of both students and staff during this school year. In this edition, discover how our administrators have fostered a positive connection with the Southampton County Sheriff's Department by organizing events like Cupcakes with Cops during lunchtime and inviting officers into classrooms to receive heartfelt thank-you cards from students.

Our dedicated educators continue to elevate the learning experience with innovative lessons, including hands-on edible projects, engaging family reading nights, and entertaining carnivals. In this issue, middle school teachers share valuable insights on effective learning and offer guidance for parents on ways to enhance their children's study habits.

This issue also features impactful articles from students who generously share their best practices for achieving excellence. It's inspiring to witness how students successfully balance their academic and personal lives, with one of our students even shining as a Pageant Star!

Parental involvement is on the rise, evident in the growing participation of parents in both classroom and extracurricular activities and sports.

As we strengthen our foundation, let's continue collaborating to ensure the success of our students in every aspect of their lives. I am excited to announce our Saturday Academy, a part of Virginia's "ALL IN VA" initiative designed to provide academic enrichment and remediation opportunities to students. The Academy will be available from January 2024 to June 2024, and we are delighted to provide this opportunity for students. We invite parents to sign up their children by scanning the QR code below.

Additionally, we are seeking qualified instructors for the Saturday Academy. If you or someone you know is interested in teaching, please direct your inquiries to Dr. MeChelle Blunt, Ms. Debra Hicks, or Mrs. Kelli Gillette at mblunt@southampton.k12.va.us, dhicks@southampton.k12.va.us, or kgillett@southampton.k12.va.us.

Thank you for your interest in our programs. We look forward to providing a high-quality educational experience for our students. I encourage you to explore the tips and resources in our newsletters to assist you and your family throughout the academic year.

Wishing you a safe and joyous holiday season and a Happy New Year!

Building a Strong Foundation,

Gwendolyn Shannon, Ph.D. Division Superintendent

Scan here to register your child for Saturday Academy

Division Superintendent Gwendolyn Shannon, Ph.D.

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Saturday Academy at SCPS Southampton County Public Schools (SCPS) is offering Saturday Academy for acceleration and remediation.

Personalized letters have been mailed to the eligible students for the Academy. The Saturday Academy is designed to provide intensive literacy and numeracy tutoring sessions, ensuring that each student receives tailored instruction and an Individualized Instruction Plan (IIP). Progress reports will be sent home to parents after each session.

Transportation, breakfast and lunch will be provided to all participating students. The Saturday Academy will be available from January 2024 to June 2024. Parents can sign up for their children to attend Saturday Academy by scanning the QR code below. The deadline to sign up for Saturday Academy is January 4, 2024.

If you have any questions or would like to learn more about Saturday Academy, please get in touch with Dr. MeChelle Blunt, Ms. Debra Hicks, or Mrs. Kelli Gillette at mblunt@southampton.k12.va.us, dhicks@southampton.k12.va.us, or kgillett@southampton.k12.va.us .

Scan here to register your child for Saturday Academy

3 Captured from left to right: Emilee and Logan Hoyt

Nottoway Elementary

School Written By: Lynn Varian

Edible Soil During their field trip to the county-wide “Farm Day” last year, the second-grade students at Nottoway Elementary School got to see first-hand what layers of soil look like in Virginia. Now that they are in third grade, the students were able to “dig” a little deeper by learning the terminology for each layer, as well as the texture, its importance to organisms, and its provision for plant growth. To help make their learning more memorable and hands-on, Mrs. Staci Tingen reached out to the students’ parents for donations. With the new and exciting supplies, the students were able to create their own edible soil models using chocolate pudding, cookies, sprinkles, and gummi worms for extra fun.

Great work, third grade!

Reading Carnival Nottoway Elementary School recently hosted its Title 1 Reading Carnival on Wednesday, October 18, 2023. Students and their families were invited to have dinner in the school cafeteria while Lorraine Greene-Whitehead, SCPS Captured from left to right: Austyn Kea and Head of Federal Programs, shared Mackenzie Hardt information on the services made available due to Title 1 funding.

After dinner, the students and their families proceeded to each literacy carnival game center to enjoy time together. The event welcomed over 200 students and guests.

The school would like to thank Mr. Jim Pope for his generous donation of pumpkin prizes for each child in attendance, the NES staff for making the event possible, and the community for their dedicated support.

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Cupcakes with Cops at Riverdale Elementary School Captured from left to right: Lilly Gillitzer and Savannah Roberts with Sheriff Josh A. Wyche Sr.

Written By: Co-Principal, Mrs. Amesheia Warren

Captured below: Co-Principal, Mrs. Amesheia Warren, with McGruff the Crime Dog

I want to share some exciting updates about Riverdale Elementary School. This past October, RES had a full calendar of events for students and parents alike. We celebrated National School Lunch Week from October 9 to 13, and parents and guardians were invited to join their children for lunch. It was an excellent opportunity for families to spend quality time together.

Fire Prevention Week was also recognized at Riverdale, and students learned valuable fire safety tips from the Hunterdale Volunteer Fire Department. The children had a chance to explore the fire truck and equipment, a highlight for many students.

Additionally, Southampton County Sheriff’s Office and State Police visited the school for “Cupcakes with Cops.” The students enjoyed interacting with the cops and meeting Mr. McGruff. The event was a memorable experience for everyone.

Another significant event in October was the Title 1 Reading Night/Fall Festival. Over 300 students and parents participated in the event held on October 19.

Parents received valuable reading information, and students had a chance to visit stations set up in the gym where they received books, candy, and coloring books. They also played games and were given pumpkins donated by Mr. Jim Pope.

Captured from left to right: Skylar Eley and Aaliyah Jernigan with Co-Principal Mr. Paul Kea

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Nottoway’s Honor Society and Beta Club Written By: Lynn Varian

Front row (left to right): Cassie Brinkley, Noah Sprague, Helen Noel, Chloe Schimizzi, Kaylee Cook Second Row: Kadence Britt, Zoey Fare, Hunter Ullery, Brantley Beale, Aundrea Clary, Tristin Lee Thurs Row: Kiley Haywood, Alisha Jenkins, Haley Boykin, Danielle Stallard, and Principal, Ms.Susan Street

Front Row (left to right): Brady Galtress, Hunter Ullery, Markel Bradshaw, Tyler Duncan, Emily Juby, Jontay Jose, and Brantley Beale Second Row: Mrs. Alisha Jenkins, Trenton Tingen, Mackenzie Hardt, Noah Herring, Anabelle Lesko, Hank Lyons, Juliana Murphy, Helen Noel, Brantley Powell, Landen Riley, and Ms. Haley Boykin Third Row: Mrs. Danielle Stallard, Lillie Constante, Mrs. Kiley Haywood, Liam Dalton, Aundrea Clary, Tristin Lee, Alivia Lunceford, Breelyn Hewett, Haleigh Reynolds, Kaeli Forehand, Ansley Thomas, and Principal, Ms. Susan Street (Absent from photo: Elisabeth Doyon and Dylan McCoy)

Nottoway Elementary School recently welcomed its newest members into the National Elementary Honor Society (NEHS) and the National Junior Beta Club. Students selected for induction into NEHS demonstrated their academic excellence by maintaining an A/B grade average. On the other hand, the Beta Club members achieved the highest standard, receiving all A’s.

These prestigious groups not only stand as a testament to academic rigor but also highlight the students’ commitment to community service and exemplary citizenship. Congratulations to all the accomplished students on this well-deserved recognition!

Among the newest NEHS inductees are Brantley Beale, Aundrea Clary, Lillie Constante, Liam Dalton, Kaeli Forehand, Brady Galtress, Mackenzie Hardt, Noah Herring, Breelyn Hewett, Emily Juby, Tristin Lee, Anabelle Lesko, Alivia Lunceford, Hank Lyons, Juliana Murphy, Helen Noel, Brantley Powell, Landen Riley, Katherine Thomas, Trenton Tingen, Hunter Ullery, Markel Bradshaw, Elizabeth Doyon, Tyler Duncan, Jontay Jose, Dylan McCoy, and Haleigh Reynolds.

Beta Club inductees include Brantley Beale, Aundrea Clary, Tristin Lee, Helen Noel, Hunter Ullery, Cassandra Brinkley, Kadence Britt, Kaylee Cook, Zoey Fare, Chloe Schimizzi, and Noah Sprague.

Congratulations to all of the outstanding new members of these great organizations!

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CAPRON ELEMENTARY SCHOOL

Captured in the front row: Brayden Harris, Kaysen Everett, River Davis, Kenley Griffiths, Daniah Joyner, Oliver Hadaway, and Leo Van Emburg Captured in the middle row: Maya Martins, Ka’Oir Adkins, Aaliyah Kindred, Andrew Tupea, Jax Osborne, Ezra Gillette, and Bobby Banty Captured in the back row: Aleah Newsome, Grayson Pacheco, Sofiyah Bynum. Shelby Davis and Gracie Ferguson Teachers: Ms. Taylor Darden and Mrs. Katie Holland

Written By: Kathy Thompson

Captured below: Sofiyah Bynum

Captured below: Leo Van Emburg

Learning is always fun at Capron Elementary, especially when you are in Kindergarten.

Kindergarten teachers Mrs. Katie Holland and Ms. Taylor Darden have been busy teaching and reviewing the letters of the alphabet and their sounds. Students could participate in many hands-on activities to enable them to learn and remember the letters of the alphabet.

Research has shown that students retain information better through hands-on opportunities that allow them to gain knowledge of the topic they are studying through experience. The children were each assigned a letter of the alphabet and asked to use a large paper bag to create a vest with items or pictures associated with that letter.

The students used their amazing imaginations to create wonderful vests representing their particular letters.

The entire school, as well as family and friends, were invited to watch their first annual Alphabet Parade showcasing their vests. The kindergarteners were so proud to parade around the playground, displaying their masterpieces to everyone.

7 Captured: Serenity Hill

MEHERRIN ELEMENTARY SCHOOL Written By: Lynn Varian

Much to Celebrate Meherrin Elementary School recently celebrated some special students who were honored as “Students of the Month.” Students were selected by their homeroom teachers for class participation, respectful behavior, responsible behavior, hard work, and good citizenship.

The following students were honored with an ice cream treat and a certificate by Principal Susan Fowler during the school’s “Pink Out Day” in honor of Breast Cancer Awareness month: Corbin Blythe, Zion Wright, Ava Lindsey, Brianna Gay, Lynnix Bryant, Andrew Taylor, Zarina Williams, Amara Gary, Cooper Bryant, Canden Kelly, Jesse Griffin, Tayvion Rooks, Trent Wright, Ra’Miya Bynum, Kiptyn Cooke, Christina Clemons, and Nathanael Wallace.

Keep up the fantastic work, Meherrin Eagles!

Captured from left to right: Trent Wright, Nathanael Wallace, Christine Clemons, Principal Susan Fowler, Ra’Miya Bynum, Tayvion Rooks, and Kiptyn Cooke

Trunk –R-Treat What could be better than combining the fun of Halloween with literacy? The Meherrin Elementary School staff hosted their annual Title 1 Reading Night and Trunk-R-Treat on Wednesday, October 18, 2023. Students and their families were invited to wear their Halloween costumes and partake in the event.

While in attendance, each family was provided with important information regarding the educational services provided through Title 1. The students also received candy from each grade level trunk station. Even the staff participated in costume! The school happily welcomed 168 students and guests throughout the evening and would like to thank the MES community for their dedicated participation.

Captured below: Nicholas Duke

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Engaging Activities at Meherrin Written By: Lynn Varian

Captured from left to right: Henley Baldwin and Willow Thorpe

The students in Meherrin Elementary School’s Pre-Kindergarten and Early Childhood Special Education (ECSC) classes enjoyed a series of engaging activities to practice their fine and gross motor skills in the days leading up to Thanksgiving. Organized into small groups, the students rotated through various activities designed to enhance a specific skill. All the activities incorporated Thanksgiving -themed elements, including turkeys, feathers, pumpkins, and even marshmallows for sweet potato casserole. A special acknowledgment goes to the Pre-K and ECSC teachers and staff for making the learning experience enjoyable and beneficial for Meherrin’s youngest learners.

Family Reading Night Tuesday, November 28, 2023, Meherrin Elementary School warmly welcomed students and their families to a delightful Family Reading Night. Families gathered in different rooms throughout the school building to immerse themselves in the joy of reading and showcase their impressive literacy skills.

Some families found cozy corners in the library to delve into captivating books, while others embraced a camping-themed reading experience, complete with flashlights near a simulated campfire displayed on the smartboard. As a special treat, every student in attendance received a complimentary book to enrich their personal home library.

The school extends heartfelt gratitude to everyone who participated in and supported this wonderful event, making it a memorable celebration of literacy and family engagement.

Captured right:

Captured right: Christine Frohlich

Captured from left to right: Sadie Karker and her mom, Sara, read a story under the beautifully painted children’s literature mural in the Meherrin Elementary School library. The mural was painted by former MES student, Shea Lindsey, as her senior project.

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Exceptional Tips for Exceptional Learners and their Parents For over 15 years, Stephanie Harrison, a dedicated Special Education Teacher, has been an integral part of Southampton County Public Schools (SCPS). Her tips for parents of special and general education students are both valuable and insightful. Below, you can discover ways to enrich your child’s academic career by following Mrs. Harrison’s 10 tips. Her commitment to enhancing the educational journey will positively impact all students and their families.

TIP 1 Meet Your Child's Teacher Cultivate a relationship with your child's teacher to show your involvement and willingness to collaborate in supporting your child's education.

TIP 4 Participate in ParentTeacher Conferences

TIP 2 Familiarize Yourself with School Personnel Know the key individuals at your child's school who contribute to their learning experience.

Recognize that everyone is there to support and encourage your child's educational journey.

TIP 5 Seek Help if Needed

Attend conferences to stay informed about your child's progress. If unavailable, schedule alternative meetings or maintain communication through calls to stay connected with your child's teacher.

Don't hesitate to ask for assistance if your child encounters challenges. Request evaluations if necessary and explore resources like an Individualized Education Program (IEP) to support their progress.

TIP 7 Encourage At-Home Study

TIP 9 Promote Responsibility and Independence

Support your child's learning by ensuring they complete homework and study at home. Active involvement in their learning process is crucial.

TIP 8 Promote Extra-Curricular Activities Encourage participation in extracurricular activities for physical and mental engagement.

Teach your child to be responsible both at home and in school, fostering independence and laying the groundwork for sustained success.

TIP 10 Be a Positive Role Model Demonstrate a positive attitude towards education as it influences your child's perspective. Make education a priority in your life to instill the same values in your child.

TIP 3 Promote Responsibility and Independence Teach your child to be responsible both at home and in school, fostering independence and laying the groundwork for sustained success.

TIP 6 Engage with PTO or Volunteer Join parent-teacher organizations or volunteer at the school to actively contribute to your child's education and emphasize its importance.

Captured: Special Education Teacher, Mrs. Stephanie Harrison

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Hi there! I'm Chelsey Bicknell, one of the eighth grade physical science teachers at Southampton Middle School. I've been teaching at this school for ten years now, and I've loved every bit of it.

As you may know, Physical Science is the first and only science SOL (Standard of Learning) that students have to take in middle school. Since it contains all three grade levels of science material (6th, 7th, and 8th), it's important for students to review and retain all the topics they learn in class.

That's why I've come up with some tips for parents and students that can help them have a successful year!

TIPS FROM SOUTHAMPTON MIDDLE SCHOOL’S SCIENCE TEACHER: MRS.BICKNELL TIP 2 Parent Portal

TIP 1 REMIND

If your teacher uses the REMIND app, sign up for it. This way, you'll receive reminders about upcoming quizzes and tests. If I teach your child and you haven't signed up for our class Remind yet, just send a text message @bicknell23 to 81010.

Captured from left to right: Sienna DeLaquil, Wayne Fetrow, Chloe Krolak, Taylor Marks, Dynastia Grant, Kayle Shifflett, Chris Waite, Natalie Werndli, and Jadelynne Roark Captured in the front row: Mother and daughter, Mrs. Shannon Hacker and Mrs. Chelsey Bicknell

TIP 3 Schoology

Use the resources provided by your teacher on Schoology (notes, flashcards, assignments, etc.) to prepare for quizzes and tests.

TIP 4

STUDY! STUDY! STUDY! Students should review their notes, quiz themselves, and practice the work repeatedly to retain the material they learn in school. If students follow these tips consistently, I'm confident that they'll have a successful year in science.

What my students look forward to in class.

TIP 5 Review Games

Sign up for parent portal so that you can see your grade in real time. This will help you identify areas where you need to improve and fix assignments before the final deadline. Ask your grade-level guidance counselor for information.

TIP 6 Quizlet/Flocabulary

This is a great resource for practicing important vocabulary for that particular class. I attach a link to Quizlet flashcards in Schoology for every lesson we learn.

For most of our topics, we are able to compete in a review game to prepare for that quiz or test. The class always seems engaged and ready to compete against their classmates.

TIP 7 IXL

Students have an IXL account where they can review Math, Reading, and even Science! If your child struggles with a specific topic, they can practice that material in IXL. IXL offers an explanation for the questions students get incorrect.

TIP 8 Visit Your Local Library

Our libraries have so many books on Science that can capture any child's interest!

TIP 9 Rewards

Every Friday, I pull six names per class and reward those students with a snack.

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SMS’ Contributing Student Writer Written By: Paris Newsome

Captured from left to right: SMS Virtual Learning Coach, Ms. Imani Dyson; Paris Newsome, and SMS Language Arts Teacher, Mrs. Jennifer Peace

I am Paris Newsome, an eighth-grade student at Southampton Middle School (SMS). I began attending this school in the 2022 school year. Throughout my journey here, I’ve learned several things about myself. I used to be a person that was so quick to give up on things when they got tough. While attending Southampton Middle School, I’ve gained a lot of self-confidence due to the fact that all my teachers believe in me. Two of my favorite teachers are Mrs. Peace [the Language Arts Teacher] and Ms. Dyson [the Virtual Learning Coach for Civics and Economics]. They are very encouraging and always say positive things when I need a helping hand. Southampton County Middle School is a school where you can be yourself. And everyone is willing to help.

One of the most important things I’ve noticed about the staff at SMS is that they are always willing to go the extra mile; feeling left out will never be an option. Every so often, SMS will host different activities for the students, such as the “Sneaker Ball.” The Sneaker Ball is a large event that students look forward to attending. Seeing everyone come together as one really made me feel welcome.

I am proud to be a student at Southampton Middle School, and I enjoy attending every day as a student. I found myself trying to “fit” in, but I learned that you don’t have to do that if you have good and positive energy. After completing eighth grade, I would love to go to Southampton High School. I really love the school and would love to continue going here. I look forward to doing more things. I thank all the staff for the help when I need it the most.

Captured from left to right: Paris Newsome with SMS Language Arts Teacher, Mrs. Jennifer Peace

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Southampton Middle School’s Pageant Star Written By: Chelsea Epps Captured: Chelsea Epps

Hello, I'm Chelsea Epps, your 2023-2024 Miss Preteen Tidewater Star! I am honored to hold this role, as it requires a great deal of responsibility to act and speak like a queen. I have been involved in the pageant industry for about 10 years. When I was younger, I didn't fully grasp the importance of giving back to my community. However, as I've grown older, I've come to understand the value of contributing to others. Over the last two years alone, I have raised about $3,000 for my community. Additionally, I actively volunteer in Southampton, Greensville, and Northampton County. I also look up to my older queens as they serve as role models in my life. Another aspect I love about pageants is the opportunity to raise awareness to end world hunger and promote peace among all people because everyone matters!

Captured: Chelsea Epps

13 Captured: Corey Ricks

Southampton High School

Captured: Landon Ricks

Elite Extravaganza

Written By: Landon Ricks

Written By: Corey Ricks Every year, Southampton High School has a week dedicated to wacky attire and school spirit during the week of the homecoming dance. This fun-filled week of festivities is called “Spirit Week.” Spirit Week allows students and staff to showcase their school spirit in many different ways. For example, we wore pink for breast cancer awareness on Monday, and on Friday, we wore our class colors.

How does this all come together? Well, I am glad you asked.

I am currently a part of our Student Council Association (SCA). I serve as the vice president of my senior class. What do we do? SCA plans various activities for our school and community through leadership and teamwork. We have countless meetings in and out of school to brainstorm ideas to make our activities fun for everyone—for example, Spirit Day themes, colors, and the annual homecoming pep rally.

The pep rally is probably the biggest day of the week. Every class has its sections, and students put up decorations to show up and show out for their class. There are also games, dancing, and a lot of other things. Overall, I feel like Spirit Week is one of the most important weeks of the year. It’s always exciting to see students come together as a class and get things done.

This year's homecoming week had an awesome turnout.

The classes of '24, '25, '26, and '27 all came together to make this possible.

Monday was "Pink Out Day," where everybody wore pink attire to support everyone who has or has beaten breast cancer.

Tuesday was "Teacher Swap Day." Lots of teachers and students partnered up to swap characters for a day. Teachers wore teenera clothing, and students wore turtlenecks and blazers to fit an adult era.

Wednesday was "White Lie Day." All the teachers and students wore white tee shirts with white lies on them, such as “I'm always on time,” "I'll miss my students,” and “I can sing.” Participants had a lot of fun doing this.

Thursday was "Throwback Thursday."

Everyone wore their favorite era clothing from the ‘00s, ‘90s, ‘80s, and ‘70s.

Lastly, Friday was "Class Color Day," where everyone wore their class color to support their grade level. Freshmen wore white, sophomores wore black, juniors wore blue, and seniors wore red. On Friday, we also celebrated our annual homecoming pep rally with students and staff in the SHS gym.

Overall, it was a great turnout throughout the week, and we wish we could do it all over again.

14 Captured from left to right: Jada Sykes and Christina Dunlow

Southampton High School Students Give Tips on Achieving Academic Success Written By: Jada Sykes and Christina Dunlow

As successful and balanced students, we are excited to share with you eight valuable tips that have played a significant role in shaping our academic achievements and overall balance in life. These tips, straightforward in their application, have proven to be both simple and highly effective.

TIP 2 Consistent Study Habits

Establishing consistent study routines has been instrumental in our academic success. Regular and focused study sessions spread over time help improve the retention of information and reduce the stress associated with last-minute cramming.

TIP 5 Taking Effective Notes

Developing effective note-taking techniques is a skill that has served us well. Clear and organized notes aid in better comprehension, serve as valuable study tools, and facilitate the revision of material outside of class.

TIP 1 Effective Time Management

Prioritize tasks and create a schedule that allows for efficient use of your time. By allocating dedicated time slots for various activities, we've found it easier to stay organized and maintain a healthy balance between academic and personal commitments.

TIP 3 Active Participation in Class

Actively engaging in class discussions, asking questions, and participating in activities contribute to a deeper understanding of the subject matter. This involvement not only enhances learning but also fosters a positive academic environment.

TIP 6 Balanced Lifestyle

Maintaining a balanced lifestyle is crucial for your overall well-being.

We prioritize self-care, adequate sleep, and physical activity to ensure that we are mentally and physically prepared to tackle academic challenges.

TIP 4 Seeking Support When Needed

Recognizing the importance of seeking help when faced with challenges has been crucial. Whether from teachers, classmates, or support services, reaching out for assistance has contributed to our learning and growth.

TIP 7 Setting Realistic Goals

Setting achievable short-term and long-term goals has helped us stay motivated. Breaking down larger tasks into smaller goals makes the academic journey more manageable and less overwhelming.

TIP 8 Embracing Adaptability

Flexibility and adaptability are essential qualities for success. Being open to change, learning from experiences, and adjusting our approach based on feedback have been key factors in navigating the academic landscape.

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Southampton High School’s DECA CLUB Written By: Wanda Blythe

Captured from left to right: Wanda Blythe, Jayden Austin, and Lizzie Burk

DECA, which stands for Distributive Education Clubs of America, is a club that offers students valuable opportunities to acquire real-life skills in management, entrepreneurship, and various other fields through participation in competitions. DECA provides a platform for students to develop practical skills, enhance their understanding of business concepts, and apply their knowledge in a competitive and professional setting. Engaging in DECA activities not only enriches students' educational experiences but also prepares them for success in the dynamic world of business and leadership.

Southampton High School’s DECA students, including Lizzie Burk (DECA President), Jayden Austin (Secretary), Charlie Gattuso (member), and club sponsor, Mrs. Wanda Blythe, volunteered their time to spread Christmas cheer at the Southampton County Fairgrounds. Together, they adorned a tree for the winter wonderland section of the "Christmas at the Fair" event. The decorated tree uniquely represents SHS and DECA, featuring colors associated with both groups—red, white, royal blue, and silver. As part of a snowy forest walk, their tree joins others, each reflecting different themes chosen by the respective groups.

Now in its eighth year, the event offers engaging activities for all ages. Local crafters and vendors showcase their specialties in one building while another hosts the winter wonderland forest. A gingerbread house offers hot chocolate, and kids can enjoy a train ride around the property. Rumor has it that Santa might make a special appearance, but you'll have to attend to find out.

This festive event is free and open to the public, so don't miss the chance to experience it.

For additional details, please visit the website: franklinsouthamptoncountyfair.org.

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Over 40 Years of Cheering Written By: Wilhelmine “Willow” Bellevue Theodore R. Hayes III, affectionately known as Theo, is the spirited mascot of the Southampton Indians football team. With an unwavering commitment spanning over 40 years, Theo has been a consistent presence at nearly every game, passionately cheering for the team. Born and raised in a family of eight siblings who all attended Southampton County Public Schools (SCPS), Theo's roots run deep within the school community.

According to Theo's sister, Margret Saunders, his love for the Southampton Indians dates back to his youth, with memories of him attending games even during her high school years. "From the time Theo started Southampton (SCPS), Theo loved Southampton.

Theo took it upon himself to become a mascot. Once he started dressing up and attending the games, a couple of friends built his Indian headgear for him," shared Saunders. "Even when the high school did have a mascot, Theo was still the mascot. He was always out there and cheering the kids."

For Theo, being the mascot is not merely a role; it's a heartfelt commitment to giving back to the school community. Saunders emphasized that Theo prioritizes his mascot duties, often putting the games before his personal life. In recognition of his longstanding dedication, in November 2021, the Superintendent of SCPS, Dr. Gwendolyn Shannon, and the Southampton County School Board officially declared November as Theodore R. Hayes III Month.

"Theo puts Southampton on top. If there is a family event on the same day of a game, Theo will go to the Southampton game. He is sincere in his dedication to the football team."

— Margret Saunders

Captured in photos: Theodore R. Hayes III

Whenever Theo wears his mascot gear, he gives it his all, embodying the spirit and pride of the Southampton Indians. Theo’s unwavering support and enthusiasm make him an integral part of the school's tradition and a cherished figure in the hearts of the community.

Captured below: Theodore R. Hayes III as a teen

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Science Terms Word Search

Answer Key

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Resources for Parents and Guardians Science  National Geographic Kids National Geographic Kids

 NASA Kids’ Club - Play Games and More at NASA Kids' Club! | NASA

English Language Arts  Reading is Fundamental - Literacy Tracker | RIF.org  PBS Learning - PBS LearningMedia | Teaching Resources For Students And Teachers

 Science News Explores - Science News Explores |

News from all fields of science for readers of any age (snexplores.org)

 SCI Show Kids - SciShow Kids - YouTube  Nat Geo Kids - Nat Geo Kids - YouTube

 Seussville - Explore - Seussville  KCAdventures - 50+ FREE Read Aloud Books Online (kcedventures.com)

 ReadTheory - ReadTheory | Free Reading Comprehension Practice for Students and Teachers

 Fact Monster - Homework Center: Science

 ReadWorks - Reading Passages (readworks.org)

 U.S. Fish & Wildlife Service - Species | U.S. Fish &

 Flocabulary - Educational Hip-Hop Songs & Videos for All

Wildlife Service (fws.gov)

Subjects, K-12 (flocabulary.com)

 SpellingCity - Vocabulary Words - Spelling Practice Phonics Games for Kids (spellingcity.com)

Math 

 Funbrain - Games, Videos, and Books for Kids - Funbrain  Audiobooks for Kids & Teens - Kids Teens (audiofilemagazine.com)

 Bedtime Math - Bedtime Math – We inspire kids to love math so they embrace and excel at it.

 Khan Academy- Khan Academy | Free Online Courses,

 DogoNews (ELA & Science) - DOGO News - Kids news articles! Kids current events; plus kids news on science, sports, and more!

Lessons & Practice

 Abcya - Number Race: Number Values • ABCya!  MooMoo Math- MooMooMath and Science - YouTube

 The Organic Chemistry Tutor (Math &Science) - The Organic Chemistry Tutor - YouTube

 Math Playground - Math Games | Math Playground | Fun for

Homeless Shelters/Temporary Housing

Kids

 Math Illuminations - Illuminations: Search (nctm.org)  Maths Chase - Maths Chase - Times Tables Games - Fun MathsTests

Health Services  ODU Community Care Mobile Health Clinic Website: communitycare-odu.com Email: ODUCommunitycare@odu.edu Phone: 757.45.CARES (22737)

 Agape Counseling and Therapeutic Services Inc. Website: agapecounselingva.com Phone: 757.244.3500

 Family Preservation Services

Website: fpscorp.com Email: Referrals@FPSCorp.com Phone: 540.344.9501

 Tidewater Youth Services Commission Website: tyscommission.org Phone: 757-488-9161

 Stepping Stones

Website: steppingstonescounselingservices.org Phone: 757.516.7886

 Southampton County Public Schools

McKinney-Vento Liaison, Dr. Harris-Muhmmad Email: smuhammed@southampton.k12.va.us Phone: 757.653.7438

 Union Mission Ministries: Men, Women and Children

Website: Union Mission Ministries – Norfolk Homeless Shelter & Recovery Program Phone: 757.627.8686

 Salvation Army: Men’s Shelter

Website: The Salvation Army USA Phone: 757.622.3471

 Samaritan House: Shelters and Programs for

Permanent Housing Website: Home :: Samaritan House (samaritanhouseva.org) Crisis Response Hotline:757.430.2120 Homeless Hotline: 757.587.4202

 ForKids, Inc: Families with Children

Website: Family Homelessness | ForKids | Norfolk, VA Office Phone: 757.622.6400 Hotline for housing crisis: 757.587.4202

 The Genieve Shelter

Victims of Domestic Violence Website: HOME | The Genieve Shelter Phone757.251.0144

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Resources for Parents and Guardians

Vocabulary Words

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Southampton County Public Schools PO Box 96 Courtland, VA 23837

PRSRT STD US POSTAGE

PAID

PERMIT 1228 NORFOLK, VA 20

Southampton County Public Schools Mission Statement Southampton County Public Schools

Did you know that all district work revolves around our six major Division Goals?

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Our six know goals are as follows: Did you that all district work revolves around our six Expand LearningGoals?

Opportunities major Division and Increase Student Achievement Our six goals are as follows:

1

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Expand Learning Opportunities and Increase Student Achievement

Expand Our Safe and Healthy School Culture and Climate Expand Our Safe and Healthy School Culture and Climate

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Expand Professional Training and Improved Employee Retention

Expand Professional Training and Improved Employee Retention

Expand Community and ExpandPartnerships Community and Parental Parental Partnerships

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Expand Capital Expand CapitalImprovement Improvement Efforts and Acquire Efforts and AcquireMore More Fiscal Resources Fiscal Resources

Expand Opportunities to Make

Expand tofor Make SchoolOpportunities More Equitable All School More Equitable for All Students Students

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Through the combined efforts of the staff, students, families, and community, our mission is to ensure a Mission Statement quality education in a safe environment that will prepare students to be successful learners and productive citizens in an ever-changing society.

Through the combined efforts of the staff, students, families, and community, our mission is to ensure a quality education in a safe environment that will Vision Statement prepare students to be successful learners and productive citizens in an ever-changing society.

The vision of Southampton County Public Schools is all students will be successful, productive, lifelong learners in Statement an Vision ever-changing world.

The vision of Southampton County Public Schools is all students will be successful, productive, lifelong learners in Contact Us an ever-changing world.

Should you have any questions regarding the Us please contact Willow Southampton SpotlightContact Newsletter, Bellevue via email at wbellevue@southampton.k12.va.us Should you have any questions regarding the or by phone at 757.650.2016 Southampton Spotlight Newsletter, please contact Willow Bellevue via email at wbellevue@southampton.k12.va.us or by phone at 757.650.2016

Southampton.k12.va.us Southampton.k12.va.us

facebook.com/scpsdistrictva facebook.com/scpsdistrictva

PO Box 96 PO Box 96 VA 23837 Courtland, Courtland, VA 23837

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