Students and staff participate in a hula hoop contest as part of the pep rally. (Photo Courtesy Lenox Public Schools)
LENOX, Mass. — Morris Elementary students got hyped up before the start of their Massachusetts Comprehensive Assessment System (MCAS) during a pep rally hosted by staff.
On Thursday, March 28, students in Pre-K through Grade 2 were called to the gymnasium to await their older peers as part of the pep rally.
Students in Grades 3-5 were called down next. Each classroom pre-selected a walk-in song for their entrance. Songs included "The Eye of the Tiger" by Survivor, "High Hopes" by Panic! At the Disco, "Roar" by Katy Perry, "Thunderstruck" by AC/DC, and more. Upon their entry, each student was given a pair of sunglasses to wear and take home.
Younger students cheered them on as they entered, presenting "Good Luck Tiger!" signs to their buddies to wish them luck on their testing before heading back to class for the remainder of the afternoon.
To kick off the festivities, students participated in a hula hoop contest and played musical chairs. The winners of each competition won a book machine token to be used at the school's vending machine, which only dispenses books.
Students then played and laughed along as Principal Brenda Kelley participated in the "Nasty Nachos Game."
Six multiple-choice trivia questions surrounding MCAS testing were displayed on the big screen for students to answer. Questions covered what to do the night before testing, what to do when answering a multiple-choice question, what to do if you don't understand a question, how to answer text questions about story characters, and more.
For each question answered correctly, Principal Kelley had to eat a new "nasty" ingredient laid on the table.
Kelley ate items including dirt from the playground (crushed Oreos), old Morris mustard (butterscotch syrup), mothballs from the supply closet (marshmallows), "Teddy's Treats" (mint chocolate balls), and rocks from the front garden (frosting balls).
To end the event, Morris staff surprised students with a "glow dance party," where they were given glow sticks and danced.
"We hold this pep rally each year for our Morris students," said Principal Kelley. "They work hard each day learning the curriculum. It is nice to honor their hard work and build excitement for the upcoming test."
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Morris Elementary School Welcomes New Assistant Principal
LENOX, Mass. — Superintendent William Collins announced that Holly Soules has been selected as Morris Elementary School's new assistant principal and will assume her role on July 1.
Soules brings experience and a diverse background in education to the district. She has previously taught both first and third grade, served as a Physical Education instructor for elementary and high school students, and most recently held the position of Dean of Students at Herberg Elementary School.
One of her notable contributions at Herberg Elementary has been her involvement in the Positive Behavioral Interventions and Supports (PBIS) team, demonstrating her commitment to creating a positive and supportive school environment. Her dedication to fostering positive relationships with families, students and colleagues aligns seamlessly with Morris Elementary's values.
The addition of Soules to the Morris team will aid in the plan for Principal Kelley to phase into the full-time role as Curriculum, Instruction and Assessment Director over the next four years.
"Holly's multifaceted experience uniquely equips her to understand and address the various needs of our school community," said Morris Principal Brenda Kelley. "Her enthusiasm, expertise, and passion for education make her an invaluable addition to our school community. I am confident that she will make significant contributions to the growth and success of our students."
Soules holds a master's degree in elementary education from American International College, as well as several licensures including as an elementary administrator, principal and assistant principal.
"We would like to extend a warm welcome to Holly as Morris' new assistant principal," said Dr. Collins. "Her experience and her passion for providing students with the best possible learning environment make her a wonderful fit for this role. We look forward to seeing her contributions in making Morris Elementary School a brave and safe space for all students."
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