Lake Oconee Academy's Marcus Rhodes recognized as one of six recipients of the REACH Scholarship in Greene County

In a recent announcement, Lake Oconee Academy proudly shares that eighth-grade student Marcus Rhodes has been chosen as one of the six recipients of the prestigious REACH Scholarship within the Greene County School System.

Established in 2012, REACH Georgia is the state's pioneer needs-based mentorship and college scholarship initiative. To qualify, students must be nominated by a teacher, marking it not only as a financial scholarship but an honor that comes with a comprehensive framework for success. This framework involves commitments from the student, parents, mentors, and academic coaches, collectively supporting the student's educational journey through high school and beyond. Upon meeting program requirements at graduation, REACH Scholars like Marcus can access a minimum of $10,000 for their education at a full-time, HOPE-eligible postsecondary institution in Georgia.

Marcus, a talented piano player and a proud member of the LOA football team, was selected for the scholarship due to his demonstrated leadership skills both in the classroom and on the football field. Varsity Football Head Coach Patrick Stewart was excited, stating, "That is amazing news! Marcus won our most improved award for football this year as he sought to improve every day. Can't wait to see him continue to grow through this program!"

Highlighting Marcus's academic qualities, his English Language Arts teacher added, "Marcus Rhodes is a promising young man with high aspirations. He is an excited learner with natural curiosity, engaged, social, and a leader in the classroom."

As Marcus transitions to high school next year, the REACH scholarship program will undoubtedly play a vital role in laying the foundation for his successful future. With all the shared pride for Marcus’s win, no one is as proud as his mother, DeTonya Rhodes, who summed up this particular moment best: “I am extremely proud of Marcus and the young man he is becoming. I am blessed and honored to have such a humbled child. Bruce Lee once said, ‘Preparation for tomorrow is hard work today.’ I can’t wait to see what his future holds.”

Lake Oconee Academy extends its best wishes to Marcus and the other Reach Scholars of the Class of 2028, anticipating their continued achievements.

A Note From Nurse Jessica - Wellness Update

LOA Staff and Families~

Welcome Back.....Thanksgiving Break flew by!!!

I hope that you and your family enjoyed some rest and fun!!

A few helpful tips from the Mayo Clinic: 

It may seem as though school-age children frequently get sick, especially during certain times each year. 

Your child(ren)'s immune systems are put to the test. Children in large group settings tend to quickly spread organisms that cause illness.

Viruses cause many common childhood illnesses. All it takes is for one child to bring a virus to school for the spread of illness to begin.

The power of hand-washing

What's the best way to keep your children healthy in school? Frequent hand-washing is the simplest, most effective way to stay healthy.

Remind your children to wash their hands when doing these activities:

• Before eating a meal or snack

• After going to the bathroom

• After coughing, sneezing or blowing their nose

• After playing outside.

Children should soap up their hands for as long as it takes to sing the "Happy Birthday" song twice through, or at least 20 seconds.

Coughing Etiquette: 

• Coughing into a tissue or napkin

• Coughing into your elbow, never into your hand

Other Helpful tips: 

• Remind children to keep their hands away from their eyes and out of their mouths because hands often are covered in germs.

• Teach children to not share water bottles, food or other personal items. Use this simple rule: If you put the item in your mouth, keep it to yourself.

It's also important for your children to eat a healthy diet, get plenty of sleep and stay current on their vaccinations to help fend off illness-causing organisms.  Keep your children at home if they have symptoms, including fever, cough, sore throat or rashes.

A few policy reminders: 

• Students must stay home if fever is present (100.4), they may return if at least 24 hours have passed since their last fever, without the use of fever reducing medication.

• Students must stay home if vomiting and/or diarrhea. They may return 24 hours after their last episode. 

If you have any questions please refer to the Lake Oconee website under the resource tab > school clinic. I have linked it here for your convenience: school clinic.  All resources are available here.  Please don't hesitate to reach out to me if needed :) 

I am so thankful for LOA and our staff, our students, and families!! I hope you each had a wonderful and healthy Thanksgiving!!

—

Our local health department will now have a kiosk providing COVID and Flu PCR testing kits. 

Please see below regarding the new kiosk from the DPH:

The Northeast Health District is now offering COVID and influenza PCR testing at
kiosks at five locations throughout the district. These kiosks offer access to testing 24 hours a day, 7 days a week.
After completing a brief registration form, the kiosks dispense two test kits – one kit is for COVID testing and the other is for influenza (types A and B). The test kits include a nasal swab and instructions on collecting the specimens. Nasal swabs must be done for each test. Once the specimens are collected, they are safely packaged back into the kits and placed in the kiosk. The specimens are picked up daily and sent to an accredited lab for PCR testing. Individuals will receive notification of their test results by email or text, usually within 48 hours of specimen collection.

Pre-registration for testing at the kiosks is not required but is available at
https://register.testandgo.com/. 

There is no out-of-pocket cost for the tests provided through a DPH kiosk, but for individuals with insurance, their insurance will be billed.

For more information about these kiosks, visit: https://northeasthealthdistrict.org/resources/covid-19-testing/

COVID and influenza testing are among the many prevention measures that protect you and others by reducing the chances of spreading illness. Vaccination and good respiratory hygiene also help prevent the spread of respiratory illnesses like COVID and flu:

• Frequent and thorough handwashing with soap and warm water. Alcohol-based gels are the next best thing if you don’t have access to soap and water.

• Cough or sneeze into the crook of your elbow or arm to help prevent spread of germs.

• Avoid touching your face as germs can get into the body through mucus membranes of the nose, mouth and eyes.

• Stay home from work or school if you’re sick.

For more information about COVID and influenza visit https://dph.georgia.gov/covid-19 or https://dph.georgia.gov/flu.

Kind regards,

Jessica Tolbert, RN

Lake Oconee Academy School Nurse

Lake Oconee Academy Band Performs at Universal Studios in Orlando, Florida

During the fall break from October 12th to 15th, the 8th through 12th grade band students from Lake Oconee Academy embarked on an exciting journey to Orlando, Florida. Their destination was Universal Studios, where they showcased their musical talents on the grand stage and enjoyed the various attractions.

The meticulous planning for this remarkable opportunity was spearheaded by Courtney Pilgrim, the Band Director for both the Upper and Lower Schools at LOA. Pilgrim initiated the Universal Studios Stars Performance Programs application process in February of the preceding school year, submitting video and sound recordings from past performances.

The Universal Studios Stars Performance Program caters to youth bands, allowing them to perform in front of Universal's diverse audience. This program accommodates a range of performing groups, from marching or concert bands to dance teams, choirs, and more, offering a platform for these talented groups to showcase their skills.

While at Universal, the LOA Band students focused on their performance and indulged in the trip's recreational side. They experienced the excitement of Islands of Adventure, Volcano Bay, and The Main Universal Park. They even ventured to Medieval Times, creating lasting memories that will resonate with the group for a lifetime.

Reflecting on the trip, Ms. Pilgrim admired the students' outstanding performance and the fantastic experience. She looks forward to future opportunities to perform with this exceptional group, and this trip will be a cherished memory for the students who eagerly anticipate the chance to attend such an event again.

LOA Students Win Big At The Annual Georgia National Fair Art Exhibit

Lake Oconee Academy (LOA) traveled to Perry, Georgia for the Georgia National Fair (GNF) Art Expo where they had 50 art pieces on display in the exhibition. Each year, GNF opens the art contest to all schools in Georgia where budding artists vie for top prizes in six different categories. Not only do the students receive ribbons for 1st-3rd place but also monetary awards: 1st- $25, 2nd - $20, and 3rd - $15 while Best In Category receives an additional $25 and a rosette. Best In Show receives $100!

There are six different categories to highlight the various artistic skills: Drawing, Painting, Other Types of 2D Art, Photography, Sculpture, and Other Types of 3D Art. In addition, there are classes within each category. This allows for a wide variety of artists to participate and show off their artistic skills.

This year, Mrs. Debbie Vogel, LOA Upper School Art Teacher, and Mrs. Amanda Stewart, LOA Middle School Art teacher, had 32 high school students submit 50 art pieces - the maximum amount allowed to be submitted. With a short notice of approval of participation for the Middle School Art students, Middle School had 11 exhibitors with 16 entries. The Middle School Art Department looks forward to having a stronger showing in future years as they’re only recently able to participate.  Vogel stated, “I am proud of all our students for submitting work to the Georgia National Fair youth exhibit. It is such a good experience for students to see their work hung among other artists in the state and it is particularly satisfying to earn an award.”

LOA had many successes at the Art Exhibit, taking home awards in various categories:

HIGH SCHOOL

11th/12th Grade

●      Maddie Cummings: 1st place - Water Media Painting

●      Irem Erturk: 2nd place - Water Media Painting

●      Naomi Tovar: 2nd place – Pencil

●      Marley Beeker: 3rd place - Sculpture Other

9th/10th Grade

●      Avery Sanders: 2nd place - Printmaking

●      Leighann Padgett: 2nd place - Paper Mache

●      Lexi Sangam: 2nd place - Pencil Drawing

●      Valaria Martinez-Arguelles: 1st place and “Best of Category” - Colored Photography

●      Blakely Cantrell: 2nd place - Black and White Photography

●      Ben Reber: Honorable Mention - Colored Photography

(L to R): Ben Reber, Irem Erturk, Marley Beeker, Mrs. Vogel, Madison Cummings, Naomi Tovar, Valeria Martinez-Arguelies

MIDDLE SCHOOL AND SCULPTURE STUDENTS

8th Grade (High School Art l Class)

●      Kira Delgado-Schelmetty: 1st place - Printmaking

●      Audrey Lowe: 2nd place - Printmaking

●      Yamily Perez: 2nd place - Ceramic Sculpture

7th Grade

●      Maddie Moon: 2nd place - Wire/Wood Sculpture

●      Roland Bryant: 3rd place - Clay Sculpture

9th/10th

●      Maggie Wilson: 1st place - Wire/Wood sculpture

●      Rilan Hudgins: 1st place - Wire/Wood Sculpture

●      Blakely Cantrell: 2nd place - Wire/Wood Sculpture

●      Linda Cason: 2nd place - Wire/Wood Sculpture

(L to R): Avery Sanders, Audrey Lowe, Mrs. Amanda Stewart, Roland Bryant, Maddie Moon, Kira Delgado-Schelmetty

The art exhibits stay on display the duration of the fair hosted every October. Thousands of people peruse the Miller-Murphey-Howell building to see the incredibly talented students across the state of Georgia each year. For young artists, it is a real opportunity to display their hard work.

The Georgia National Fair is a state-sponsored fair that is held every October on the Georgia National Fairgrounds and Agricenter in Perry, Georgia. This is the 34th year in existence. It offers a wide range of activities and shows - including agricultural, livestock and horse shows, home and fine arts competitions, youth organization events, a circus, rides, a wide variety of fair food, and concerts boasting big name entertainers.

Lake Oconee Academy Honors Hispanic Heritage Month With Night Of Celebration

September 15, 2023 - October 15, 2023 Hispanic Heritage Month  and Lake Oconee Academy (LOA) celebrated with a night dedicated to exploring the delicacies and culture of various spanish speaking countries around the world.  

Students, parents, staff, and more were invited to attend the Inaugural LOA Hispanic Heritage Night to get a taste of authentic Hispanic food as well as explore the many different cultures within the Hispanic and Latino communities.

“Lake Oconee Academy has a very diverse student body. The Hispanic/Latino community has roots from many countries,” says Spanish teacher, Mrs. Lizette Delgado. “I wanted my students to learn the significant contributions the Hispanic/Latino Americans have made in the United States.” Delgado’s enthusiasm led to a night of celebration that proved to be even more of a success than expected. Mrs. Delgado enlisted the help of Mrs. Tabitha Mancil, LOA teacher, who quickly began rallying the help of the Hispanic parent body to bring this event together.

The enthusiasm and pride shined bright! Hispanic parents and students from LOA’s Parent Teacher Committee shared their countries, culture, and roots through food, dance and authentic crafts. Families represented the countries of Mexico, Peru, Columbia, Puerto Rico, Venezuela, Ecuador, Panama, and Guatemala. Participating families decorated with flags, banners, tablecloths, and more - giving attendees an experience to be remembered.

Hispanic Heritage Month was incorporated into the classroom, as well. English Speaking of  Other Languages (ESOL) teacher,  Mrs. Shannon Hooks planned lessons throughout the month, teaching students about influential people, art, and stories of Hispanic culture. Several elementary students created a collaborative project, and kindergarten students made individual art pieces to contribute to the night of celebration.

Dr. Beverly Montgomery, LOA Upper School Director, shared her delight for the event, “I was thrilled when Mrs. Delgado informed me that the Hispanic/Latino members of our Titan Family wanted to host an event where we could celebrate and taste different cultures represented in our school and fellowship with our families, faculty and staff.  The food was outstanding, and the company was even better!"

Hispanic/Latino parents, teachers, and students alike beamed with pride and excitement as they shared their wonderful culture with others while attendees relished in the amazing food and culture. “If you missed this event, you missed out on some delicious food, an amazing sense of community and some of the most gracious hospitality I have ever seen at any school,” expressed LOA teacher, Mr. Eric Harper.

The success and excitement of this first ever Hispanic Heritage Night has only reinforced the hard work that went into planning the event. What started as an idea Mrs. Delgado had been dreaming of  became an event that will “no doubt be bigger and better next year!” Hispanic Heritage Night will now be celebrated as an annual event during Hispanic Heritage Month at Lake Oconee Academy for years to come.

Lake Oconee Academy Given Gold Honor Roll Distinction In Advanced Placement® Program School

L to R: Austin Marshall (AP Student), Mrs. Mandy Lipscomb, Dylan Phenix (AP Student), and Ben Leach (AP Student)

College Board announced that Lake Oconee Academy (LOA) has been named to the Advanced Placement® Program (AP®) School Honor Roll, earning Gold distinction.

The AP® School Honor Roll recognizes schools whose AP programs are delivering results for students while broadening access. Schools can earn this recognition annually based on criteria that reflect a commitment to increasing college-going culture, providing opportunities for students to earn college credit, and maximizing college readiness.

Last year, LOA had 75% of its seniors who took at least one AP exam during high school, 63% of seniors scoring a three or higher on at least one AP exam, while 31% of seniors took five or more AP exams!

●      LOA CURRENTLY OFFERS 22 AP COURSES

●      29 SECTIONS ARE TAUGHT PRESENTLY

●      14 TEACHERS AT LOA TEACH AN AP COURSE

LOA Executive Director Dr. Brad Bowling expressed his enthusiasm and pride in receiving this recognition, “I am incredibly proud of our school community for being recognized with this honor. This prestigious recognition is a testament to the hard work and dedication of our students, teachers, and staff. It reflects our commitment to academic excellence and our support for advanced placement programs.”

From the perspective of an AP Human Geography and AP United States History teacher, Mrs. Mandy Lipscomb expressed the importance of Advanced Placement, “AP classes provide students with a great opportunity to kick-start their post-secondary plans. These courses are rigorous, and students learn to develop higher level critical thinking skills by emphasizing analysis and evaluation. This is very difficult for most students, but in the AP classroom, students are able to work closely with an AP teacher to develop and collect the necessary tools to problem solve. AP students exhibit motivation, reliability, and maturity to work independently - all of which provide a firm foundation for success in the post-secondary arena.”

“AP represents an opportunity for students to stand out to colleges, earn college credit and placement, and potentially boost their grade point averages,” said Trevor Packer, head of the AP program. “The schools have shown that they can expand access to these college-level courses and still drive high performance — they represent the best of our AP program.”

A Note From Nurse Jessica - It's Flu Shot Season!

It’s that time of the year again!!! Flu shot season!! 

We are happy to be hosting the Greene County Health Department on Thursday, October 5th for our annual Flu Shot Clinic.  

If you are interested in your child(ren) receiving a flu shot during the clinic, please fill out both forms attached and return to me (hard copies or via email).  

Deadline for form submission: September 28th (no forms will be accepted after this date) The forms are provided in English and Spanish.

Please let me know if you have any questions or concerns.

Kind Regards, 

Jessica Tolbert, RN

Lake Oconee Academy

School Nurse

Phone: 706-454-1562

Fax: 706-453-1773

jessica.tolbert@lakeoconeeacademy.org

The Book Fair Comes to LOA!

LOA's Fall Book Fair will take place September 18-22! 📚 Click here to view classroom viewing times: https://bit.ly/3LlWg9w

Payment options: eWallets are amazing! eWallets provide electronic forms of payment that generate through the Scholastic registers. eWallets = no lost money. Cash is accepted and parents may use credit cards!

Create an eWallet: https://bit.ly/48h4iKE

Prizes will be given to our fantastic staff members throughout the week. Two of those prizes with be awarded to two elementary homeroom teachers that have classes with the most EWallets created.

Volunteer slots are still open! Please consider signing up. Click here to volunteer: https://bit.ly/3Lm863y