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Bria Hollins (front row, center) signs her Letter of Intent to continue her basketball career at Roane State Community College in Harriman, TN. While at Villa Rica High School, Hollins lettered all four years in track and field, and she lettered all four years in cheerleading (three years with football, one year with basketball) while serving as captain for both track and field and football cheerleading her senior year. Hollins was awarded the 2010 Wildcat Award in track and field, the 2010 Coaches' Award in basketball, and the Best Attitude Award at the 2010 Cheer Camp. In addition, she was awarded the 2010 - 2011 Coaches' Award for varsity football cheerleading, the 2010 Most Spirited Award for varsity basketball cheerleading, the 2011 Captain's Award for track and field, and the 2011 Army Reserve National Scholar Athlete Award. Shown with Bria is (front row, left to right) Francine Battle, mother; Bria Hollins, signee; and Alvin Battle, father; (second row, left to right) Alvin Doby, brother; Sunee Passmore, VRHS girls' basketball coach; Monica Boles, Roane State girls' basketball coach; Nisha Doby, sister; and Kyron Doby, brother; (third row, left to right) Harvelle Smith, director of West Georgia Elite; Glen Harding, VRHS assistant principal; Mike Rogers, AAU coach; and Ronnie Parson, VRHS athletic director.
2010 VRHS graduate and Carroll County STAR Student Hannah Hurst returned to her alma mater to accept the Brenda Busbin Collins Memorial Scholarship, worth $300. Hannah is currently attending the University of West Georgia, where she is enrolled in the Honors Program, and in addition to receiving the Collins Memorial Scholarship, she is also receiving the Hope Scholarship, based on her academic performance here at VRHS, and UWG's most prestigious scholarship, the Presidential Scholarship. Her future plans are to become a math teacher. Seen with Hannah are (left to right), Adam Herring, VRHS principal; Hannah Hurst, recipient; and J. Collins, VR mayor.
Jasmon Russell (front row, center) signs her Letter of Intent to continue her softball career with the University of South Carolina Beaufort. Jasmon is a four-year starter for the Wildcats, where as a freshman she was named Honorable Mention for Region 6-AAA, and she was also the recipient of the Best Offense Award. She completed her senior year by being named MVP with a .389 batting average (including three homeruns), a .683 slugging percentage, and a .943 fielding percentage, and she was named 1st Team All-Region for Region 5-AAAA. Shown with Jasmon are (front row, left to right) Ame Russell, mother; Jasmon Russell, signee; and David Russell, father; (back row, left to right) Mr. Herring, principal; Khalil Russell, brother; Terri Lynn Valentine, head coach; Larry Jiles, assistant coach; and Wayne Allen, assistant coach. Jasmon would like to thank all of her family and friends for helping her on her journey to greatness. Alexander Morgan (center) signs his Letter of Intent to continue his football career with Highland Community College in Highland, Kansas. While at VRHS, Morgan was named All-Area 1st Team at wide receiver and All-State 2nd Team at kick returner; he received the Leadership Award and the Iron Cat Award; and he was named Player of the Week twice. His senior year he accumulated 1,348 all-purpose yards, averaging 34 yards per kick return with three touchdowns, 29 yards per punt return, 18 yards per reception with one touchdown, and 6 yards per carry with three touchdowns. On the defensive side of the ball, Morgan pulled down three interceptions and had 35 tackles. Joining Alexander on signing day are (front row, left to right) Meacy Morton (mother), Alexander Morgan (signee), and Marquita Hollomon (girlfriend); (back row, left to right) Adam Herring (VRHS principal), Ronnie Parson (VRHS athletic director), and Rob Cleveland (VRHS head football coach). Logan Davis (center) signs her Letter of Intent to continue her volleyball career with Andrew College in Cuthbert, GA. Logan plays Club Volleyball for Cobb X-treme under Coach Chloe Oram, and she looks to play libero, or defensive specialist, for the Lady Tigers. Logan has also been accepted into AndrewServes and the Elite Leadership Program, and she plans on majoring in Pre-Med. Shown with Logan are (front row, left to right) Lisa Davis, mother; Logan Davis, signee; and Margo Linton, Lady Tigers Volleyball Head Coach; (back row, left to right) Kelly Davis, father; Ronnie Parson, VRHS Athletic Director; and Adam Herring, VRHS Principal. Angie Hidalgo, center, signs her Letter of Intent to continue her volleyball career at Reinhardt University in Waleska, Georgia. While at VRHS, Angie played three years of volleyball where she was named captain and awarded the Most Valuable Player Award her senior year, and she was selected All Area 5-AAAA team honorable mention. Angie also played two years of basketball, was involved with FBLA, and maintained a 3.8 GPA. With Angie are (seated, left to right) Antonio Mims (boyfriend), Angie Hidalgo (signee), and Gigian Adams (sister); (standing, left to right) Ronnie Parson (Athletic Director at VRHS), James Black (head volleyball coach at VRHS), Adam Herring (principal of VRHS), Benjamin Hidalgo (father), and Ava Adams (niece). Keshaun Holley (center) recently signed a National Letter of Intent to continue her soccer career with Middle Georgia College in Cochran, GA. While at VRHS, Holley was a four-year varsity starter and a two-year captain for the Lady Wildcat’s soccer team. Shown with Keshaun are (front row, left to right) Sylvia Holley, mother; Keshaun Holley, signee; Shaun Holley, father; (back row, left to right) Ronnie Parson, VRHS athletic director; Christina Tidaback, Lady Wildcats head soccer coach; and Adam Herring, VRHS principal. Congratulations to Hannah Hurst (VRHS and Carroll County STAR Student) who has been accepted to the Honors Program at the University of West Georgia where she will not only receive the Hope Scholarship based on her academic performance here at VRHS, but she has also been awarded UWG's most prestigious scholarship, the Presidential Scholarship. There are only eight Presidential Scholarships awarded per year, and it is awarded based on high school GPA, SAT/ACT score, and academic/extracurricular activities. Although an interview is sometimes required before a student is awarded this particular scholarship, Hannah was relieved to find out that she received this scholarship without having to go through the interview process...she's a little shy. VRHS Senior Ashley Walker (front row, center) signs her Letter of Intent to continue her academic career with the University of West Georgia. While at VRHS, Ashley maintained a 4.0 cumulative GPA and received several academic awards, including The Paw Pride Award, All "A" Honor Roll, Award for Excellence, CATS, and the Poseidon Pride Award. She serves as the secretary of VRHS' chapter of the National Beta Club, of which she has been a member for four years, and she has been involved in the VRHS Marching Wildcats Band, concert band, indoor drum line, yearbook staff, and the Student Government Association. Shown with Ashley are (front row, left to right) Ann Sikes, mother; Ashley Walker, signee; and Becky Nelson, Admissions Representative from UWG; (back row, left to right) Cindy Hardegree, teacher; Adam Herring, principal; and Courtney Tielking, cousin. Ashley will be attending the University of West Georgia's Honor College where she will major in Biology/Pre-Med. VRHS Senior Courtney Tielking (front row, center) signs her Letter of Intent to continue her leadership career with Georgia Southern University in Statesboro, Georgia, where she has accepted the Southern LEAD Scholarship. Courtney, who was voted "Most Leadership" by her fellow senior classmates, currently holds several leadership positions at VRHS, serving as the Senior Class President, Beta Club Vice President, yearbook editor, and editor of the newspaper staff her junior year. Courtney will graduate in May with honors, holding a 3.9 GPA. At Georgia Southern, she plans to major in Public Relations with a minor in Political Science. Shown are (front row, left to right) Barbara Cuzzort, mother; Courtney Tielking, signee; Melissa Claiborne, Yearbook Advisor/Mentor; (back row, left to right) Adam Herring, principal; Karen Wild, assistant principal; Ashley Tielking, sister; Kim Waters, GSU representative; and Don Cuzzort, stepdad. Kevin Dunham (front row, center) will receive a three-quarter tuition scholarship from Jacksonville State University for music. While at Villa Rica High School, Kevin received the John Phillip Sousa Award, the Director’s Musicianship Award, the Musical Achievement Award, and was named to the Jacksonville State University Honor Band for two years, as well as the District Seven Honors Band and the University of Georgia Honor Band, and he was a runner-up for American High School Honor Band for Carnegie Hall. Seen with Kevin are (front row, left to right) Jeff Longmire, step-father; Kevin Dunham, signee; Denise Longmire, mother; (back row, left to right) Joshua Dunham, brother; Scott Longmire, step-brother; Adam Herring, VRHS principal; and Robert Smith, VRHS band director. Leslie Willis (front row, center) will receive a $2,000 scholarship from the Douglas County Farm Bureau, and a $1,000 scholarship from the Georgia Utility Contractors Association to attend Georgia Southern University. While at VRHS, Leslie received the CATS award, the Excellence in Spanish Award, and the Achievement in Biology Award; she made the All “A” Honor Roll all four years, and she was a member of the Spanish Club, the Spanish Honor Society, the Beta Club, and FBLA. Leslie maintained a 4.0 GPA throughout her academic career at VRHS, and in her free time she volunteers as the “Animal Welfare Coordinator” at the Pine Mountain Gold Museum. While at Georgia Southern, Leslie plans to enroll in the Pre-Veterinary program. Seen with Leslie are (front row, left to right) Sharon Willis, mother; Leslie Willis, signee; and Jody Willis, father; (back row, left to right) Sarah Triplett, teacher; Adam Herring, VRHS principal; and Lindsey Willis, sister. Anna Conner (left) and Ellen Barnes (right) will both be heading to Athens to attend the University of Georgia where they were admitted through the highly competitive Early Action Plan. Both Anna and Ellen received the CATS scholarship and the Georgia Incentive Scholarship. While at VRHS, Ellen maintained a 4.156 GPA, she was the head drum major for the Marching Wildcats Band, and she was a member of the VRHS Chorus, Student Government Association, and the Beta Club. While at UGA, Ellen will major in Business Management. Anna is the Salutatorian of this year’s graduating class with a GPA of 4.2115. She is a member of BETA Club, Spanish Honor Society, and was a Governor’s Honors Program nominee. While at UGA, Anna plans to major in Spanish. Caroline Sutton will be heading to Athens to attend the University of Georgia. Caroline was the Valedictorian of this year’s senior class with a GPA of 4.32, and she has been awarded the Chick-fil-A Scholarship, the Georgia Incentive Scholarship, and the CATS Academic Scholarship. While at UGA, Caroline plans to major in Accounting and Finance. Jasmyne Hill (front row, center) has been awarded the Merit Scholarship, which is a full tuition, four-year scholarship, to Tuskegee University. While at VRHS, Jasmyne was a member of the National Beta Club, the Spanish Club, the National Spanish Honor Society, and FBLA. In addition to lettering all four years in basketball, Jasmyne has been awarded the CATS Academic Scholarship and has been a nominee of the Governor’s Honors Program. Shown with Jasmyne are (front row, left to right) Rodney Hill, Sr., father; Jasmyne Hill, signee; and Renee Hill, mother; (back row, left to right) Rodney Hill, Jr., brother; Adam Herring, VRHS principal; and Marcus Minnifield, VRHS assistant principal. Elizabeth Tyson (center) has been awarded a $14,000 academic scholarship to attend Piedmont College. In addition to being an Honor Graduate and a former Governor’s Honors nominee in English, Elizabeth has been recognized all four years at the annual CATS Banquet and Honors Night events, and she has been a member of the Beta Club, the VRHS Chorus, and the Golden Echo Yearbook Staff, where she served as Editor her senior year. While at Piedmont, Liz will pursue her Bachelor’s degree in Secondary Education (English), with a possible double major in mathematics, and she plans on becoming a teacher. Shown with Liz are (left to right) Jill Stassie, favorite teacher; Elizabeth Tyson, signee; and Adam Herring, VRHS principal. Jasmine Elder (front row, center) will be attending Georgia Southern University in Statesboro where she has been awarded a $65,000, three-year, full tuition ROTC scholarship. While at VRHS, Jasmine was a member of the Golden Echo Yearbook Staff, Future Business Leaders of America, and she served on the Student Government Association as the Senior Class Treasurer. Shown with Jasmine are (front row, left to right) Janet Elder, mother; Jasmine Elder, signee; and Bryan Elder, father; (back row) Adam Herring, VRHS principal. Sabriya Davis (front row, center) will be attending McMurry University in Texas this fall where she has received a $7,000 McMurry Scholarship in addition to her CATS scholarship. While at VRHS, Sabriya has been recognized at the annual CATS Banquet and Honors Night events, and she has also participated as a member of the VRHS Step Team. In her free time, Sabriya enjoys giving back to the community as she volunteers at the Kingdom Rock Family Worship Center Food Bank. Shown with Sabriya are (front row, left to right) Alecia Burks, friend; Sabriya Davis, signee; and Kathy Davis, mother; (back row, left to right) Chante Arnold-Threatt, friend; Adam Herring, VRHS principal; and Sarah Mukerjee, favorite teacher. Miya Jackson will be attending Tuskegee University where she is the recipient of the Tuskegee University Academic Achievement Award, which will award her $9,000 per year for tuition. Miya will be an Honor Graduate of VRHS, where she has been a member of the VRHS concert band, FBLA, and FCCLA, where she has spent several hours volunteering at the local recreation center. 
Becky Tucker (front row, center) signs her Letter of Intent to continue her soccer career at Converse College. While at VRHS, Becky played varsity soccer all four years, winning the Defensive Impact Award her junior year and the Coaches Award her senior year, when she was also a team captain. In addition to playing soccer, Becky played two years of softball, where she was awarded the Impact Player Award her freshman year, and two years of volleyball, where she won the Offensive MVP Award her senior year. She was a member of the Spanish Honors Society her sophomore, junior, and senior years, and a member of the Beta Club all four years, serving as Club President her senior year. Becky was also a CATS Scholar all four years and she was an Honor Graduate. While at Converse, Becky will receive both soccer and academic scholarships, and she plans on majoring in Biology and Spanish. Seen with Becky are (front row, left to right) Fred Tucker, father; Becky Tucker, signee; and Rachel Tucker, mother; (back row, left to right) Caryn Scheufluer, WGFC United 93 coach; Christina Tidaback, VRHS girls' soccer coach; Adam Herring, VRHS principal; and Katie Tucker, sister.
Congratulations to Mr. Charles Palmer, who was named Villa Rica High School’s 2011 – 2012 Teacher of the Year. Mr. Palmer has been teaching for 25 years, with this year being his fifth year at VRHS. He began his teaching career at Wills High School in Cobb County before moving on to Douglas County High School where he spent 20 award-winning years before beginning his life at VRHS, where for the past four years he has taught Economics with excellent results. Born in Douglasville, Mr. Palmer also spent many years growing up as an Army brat, spending part of his childhood in France and Germany before returning to Douglasville, where he graduated from Lithia Springs High School in 1978. He received his BS Degree from Georgia State University where he graduated Summa Cum Laude, and he received his Master’s in Education Degree with a concentration in Constitutional Studies from the University of West Georgia where he was named Georgia’s first James Madison Memorial Fellow winner and he was selected by the U.S. Congress as a Constitutional Scholar and Education Resource. Mr. Palmer loves the atmosphere and the people at VRHS, and he is proud to see our campus receive the much needed and well-deserved tender loving care it has gotten. When asked about his choice to enter the field of education, Mr. Palmer said “I am lucky in that, for me, teaching felt like a calling. I don't mean to sound overly spiritual, nor do I mean to imply any self-importance. I just think that if you are lucky in life you spend a career doing something you love, and I have done that for the last 25 years. I know it's been the right choice every time a former student gets in touch years later just to say "thanks." Every veteran teacher knows exactly what I mean, and the younger teachers will know soon enough…time flies when you’re having fun.” When he’s not in the classroom, Mr. Palmer can be found spending time with his best friend and wife, Lydia, and their dogs, three of whom are rescued animals, on the lake fishing, in the woods hiking, on their property working, or on the road travelling. Mr. Palmer has not just been an influence in the area of academics, but in the field of philanthropy as well; motivated by his father, who continues to win his battle with lung cancer, his classes have lead the campus in fund raising for fighting cancer. For all of his hard work and dedication, and for all that he has done for the students of VRHS, we say congratulations, Mr. Palmer!!! 
Congratulations to Mr. Vick, who was named our Teacher of the Month. As is the tradition at VRHS, the Teacher of the Month is chosen by the outgoing Teacher of the Month, and Coach Robinson felt that Mr. Vick was more than worthy of this honor. When asked why he chose Mr. Vick, Coach Robinson replied:
“The teacher that I have chosen for Teacher of the Month is Dwayne Vick. Mr. Vick is a man who wears many hats. First of all, he does an outstanding job in the classroom working with his students. He has their best interests at heart and he goes the extra mile to insure their success. He's one of the go-to guys when having problems with Infinite Campus. Just keeping up with the changes is a job itself. Mr. Vick also took the extra time this school year to help some of our athletes make highlight films which helped them get into college.” This is Mr. Vick’s 12th year teaching and his 11th at Villa Rica High School. He teaches both Business and Marketing Classes, and for many years he was also the Work Based Learning coordinator. He is a 1981 graduate of Lithia Springs Comprehensive High School. He has a Bachelor’s of Business Administration from Georgia State University and his Business Education add-on from The University of West Georgia. He holds a Master’s degree in Education from Central Michigan University and is currently working on other advanced education degrees through Piedmont College. Mr. Vick is divorced, but he enjoys spending time with family and friends. In his spare time he works around his property raising a few head of cattle and tinkering with his classic automobiles. At school, in addition to his teaching responsibilities, Mr. Vick also serves as the CTAE department head, the Villa Rica High School Infinite Campus Coach, and he co sponsors FBLA. When asked about being named teacher of the month Mr. Vick said “While I graduated high school as a Lithia Lion, I am now all VR Wildcat. I am honored and humbled to be named Teacher of the Month among such a wonderful staff at such a wonderful school." 
Congratulations to Ms. Claiborne (left) and Ms. DelPriete (right) who were chosen as December's Ninth Grade Academy Teachers of the Month. Each month, NGA teachers submit "Teacher Brags" to NGA Administrator Mr. Griffis who then selects that month's winners. In addition to receiving recognition by their peers, Ms. Claiborne and Ms. DelPriete will also get to enjoy the two reserved NGA Teacher of the Month parking spaces.
Welcome to VRHS, Mr. Herring!!!
Mr. Herring enters Villa Rica High School after 12 years in the Coweta County School System. He has served as a teacher, coach, assistant principal, and most recently as the administrator of the 9th Grade Campus at East Coweta High School. In this role Mr. Herring has been responsible for opening the 9th Grade Campus, hiring and supervising the staff, managing operations, and identifying ways to improve the graduation rate of East Coweta High School students. As administrator of this campus, Mr. Herring served the school community of over 700 students and 30 teachers and 10 support staff.
Under Mr. Herring’s leadership, the East Coweta 9th Grade Campus has reduced retention rates, reduced disciplinary infractions and improved the attendance of freshman students. Also, Mr. Herring was a vital part of moving East Coweta High School off the Needs Improvement status and helping the school make AYP for three consecutive years. Mr. Herring holds a Bachelor and Master of Education degree from the University of West Georgia and a Specialist of Educational Leadership degree from Samford University in Birmingham, AL. During his studies at the University of West Georgia, Mr. Herring performed his student teaching at Villa Rica High School. There he gained experience which set the grounds for his success as an educator. Mr. Herring believes strongly in building mutually beneficial relationships with students, faculty, and the community. He prides himself on his ability to communicate and form a consensus on tough issues and is committed to student achievement. Mr. Herring’s goal is to contribute to the continued success of Villa Rica High School through his efforts to create a shared vision with teachers, fellow administrators and stakeholders that will meet the challenges essential to the success of the school. “I feel very honored to be selected as the next principal of Villa Rica High School. My commitment is to provide a premier learning environment while serving and engaging the community,” said Mr. Herring.
As is tradition here at VRHS, the current Teacher of the Month is responsible for choosing the next month’s Teacher of the Month. After long and careful deliberation, Ms. Davis chose Ms. Annie Butler as the next VRHS Teacher of the Month. Ms. Davis had this to say about Ms. Butler:
"First of all, I have had the opportunity to be in IEP meetings with Miss Butler on several occasions in which she has demonstrated genuine concern for students with special needs and offered her time outside of school to tutor these students and modify assignments to help students be successful in her classroom. Ms. Butler also differentiates instruction in science so that all her students have an opportunity to utilize their individual learning styles. In addition to her incredible skills and abilities as a teacher, Ms. Butler goes above and beyond to promote school spirit. She has done an outstanding job in planning pep rallies and other community activities to encourage Wildcat pride. Ms. Butler is energetic and creative and is an asset to our school and community." Ms. Butler is an honor graduate of Central High School and graduated Magna Cum Laude from the University of Georgia with a Bachelor’s degree in Sports Business. After graduating from college, she worked for the Atlanta Braves, Canongate Golf Clubs, and the Atlanta Silverbacks in sales. She felt a desire to help children and make a difference in others’ lives, so she decided to enter the field of education. Ms. Butler obtained her teaching certificate through the GaTAPP program and currently serves as an ambassador for the GaTAPP program, and she has continued to further her education by obtaining her gifted certification and is currently working towards her Master’s degree in Instruction and Curriculum. This is Ms. Butler’s fourth year at VRHS where she teaches science and coaches the varsity cheerleading squad, which allows her to enjoy the opportunity to work with and motivate students outside the classroom while promoting school spirit and unity for the Wildcats. Ms. Butler is an honor graduate of Central High School and graduated Magna Cum Laude from the University of Georgia with a Bachelor’s degree in Sports Business. After graduating from college, she worked for the Atlanta Braves, Canongate Golf Clubs, and the Atlanta Silverbacks in sales. She felt a desire to help children and make a difference in others’ lives, so she decided to enter the field of education. Ms. Butler obtained her teaching certificate through the GaTAPP program and currently serves as an ambassador for the GaTAPP program, and she has continued to further her education by obtaining her gifted certification and is currently working towards her Master’s degree in Instruction and Curriculum. This is Ms. Butler’s fourth year at VRHS where she teaches science and coaches the varsity cheerleading squad, which allows her to enjoy the opportunity to work with and motivate students outside the classroom while promoting school spirit and unity for the Wildcats.When asked what she believes is necessary to prepare her students for success, Ms. Butler said "I believe education is the key to success for young students, and as a teacher, I motivate students to discover what truly inspires them so they will be successful. I provide a stimulating learning environment that encourages active, hands-on student participation. I have learned that if students construct their own learning experiences they will not only retain information longer, but they will also become more confident in their abilities."
Congratulations to Mr. Rick Parmer, our VRHS February Teacher of the Month. Mr. Parmer was selected by our January Teacher of the Month, Mrs. Susan Robinson. Mrs. Robinson had this to say about Mr. Parmer:
"Mr. Parmer teaches our students to be safe, confident, and law-abiding drivers. What an important skill he teaches! His patience with students while they are learning to handle an automobile is amazing. Several of my students have commented that Mr. Parmer is always encouraging to them as they are learning to drive. He is also very generous and has a real heart for helping students."
Mr. Parmer is a veteran teacher of 24 years and has taught the last nine years here at Villa Rica High School. This is his seventh year teaching Driver's Ed since the program was revived in 2005. He is a Bowdon High School graduate from 1973 and received his Bachelor's, Master's, and Specialist's degrees from the University of West Georgia. He has also completed graduate studies at the University of Georgia and Albany State University in order to add additional fields to his teaching certificate.
Mr. Parmer has been married for almost twenty-eight years to his lovely wife and best friend, Gail, who was previously an assistant principal here at VRHS until she was assigned to Temple Middle School this past November. They have a son, Seth, who has aspirations of one day playing golf in the PGA. Mr. Parmer also coaches the middle school golf teams at Bay Springs Middle School and hopes for Villa Rica High to have a great golf program in the not too distant future. When asked about his thoughts about being selected as Teacher of the Month, Mr. Parmer had this to say: "I feel I have the greatest job in the Carroll County School System and hope to continue to impress upon our young drivers here at VRHS to drive safely and risk-free so they can have a life that will be long, as well as rewarding."
Congratulations, Mr. Parmer!!!
Keshaun Holley (center) recently signed a National Letter of Intent to continue her soccer career with Middle Georgia College in Cochran, GA. While at VRHS, Holley was a four-year varsity starter and a two-year captain for the Lady Wildcat’s soccer team. Shown with Keshaun are (front row, left to right) Sylvia Holley, mother; Keshaun Holley, signee; Shaun Holley, father; (back row, left to right) Ronnie Parson, VRHS athletic director; Christina Tidaback, Lady Wildcats head soccer coach; and Adam Herring, VRHS principal.
Congratulations to the following students who were chosen as our VRHS Students of the Week. These students were nominated and chosen by their teachers, and they have exhibited the characteristics and traits of a Wildcat that has earned them this honor. This week's Students of the Week are (in no certain order) Haley Watkins, Cody Wagner, Charlotte Nguyen, Karlie Weaver, Levi Eyer, Alisha Gross, Trisha Couch, Shane Butler, Halie Newson, Steven Kegley, Dylon Pendrak, Cassandra Vongxayasy, Tyler Gentry, Hillary Ledford, Stephanie Sheperd, Reese Gilmer, Abigayle Mathis, and Nick Parker.
Congratulations to the following students who were chosen as our VRHS Students of the Week. These students were nominated and chosen by their teachers, and they have exhibited the characteristics and traits of a Wildcat that has earned them this honor. This week's Students of the Week are (in no certain order) Elizabeth Tyson, Alisha Nguyen, Peyton Stephens, Austin Roper, Katie Swank, Haley Watkins, Kayla Johnson, Daniel Harper, Wesley Farmer, Alexandria Holt, Kala Deming, Chris Walker, Tim Hatmaker, Lorenzo Arnold, Christian Rice, Josafa Leite, and Brittany Wright.
Ken Shackleford, a former student at VRHS, was caught in the devastation that took place in southern Alabama last week; unfortunately, he and his wife, who is five months pregnant, have no insurance and they have lost everything. We are hoping to take in donations of clothing and food for the Shacklefords, and there are two locations where these donations can be left. You can drop off your donations with Ms. Hall in the Ninth Grade Academy, or you can drop them off at MY Financial Services at 133 West Wilson Street in Villa Rica. Ken indicated that he wears a 3 or 4x in shirts and his waist size is 46-50 inches for pants/shorts (he’s also 6’5”, so keep that in consideration). His wife is currently wearing size 8 or 10 in pants and ladies size large shirts; however, Maternity clothes would be welcome. Canned, boxed, or bottled foods and toiletry items would also be greatly appreciated. 
Angie Hidalgo, center, signs her Letter of Intent to continue her volleyball career at Reinhardt University in Waleska, Georgia. While at VRHS, Angie played three years of volleyball where she was named captain and awarded the Most Valuable Player Award her senior year, and she was selected All Area 5-AAAA team honorable mention. Angie also played two years of basketball, was involved with FBLA, and maintained a 3.8 GPA. With Angie are (seated, left to right) Antonio Mims (boyfriend), Angie Hidalgo (signee), and Gigian Adams (sister); (standing, left to right) Ronnie Parson (Athletic Director at VRHS), James Black (head volleyball coach at VRHS), Adam Herring (principal of VRHS), Benjamin Hidalgo (father), and Ava Adams (niece).
Congratulations to the following athletes who participated in the Special Olympics held at Central High School (not in order): Kenya Cousin, 1st place 100 meter dash, 1st place softball throw; Rachael Cox, 1st place running long jump, 2nd place softball throw; Ryan Daniel, 1st 50 meter dash, 2nd place softball throw; Julian Hatmaker, 2nd place 100 meter dash, 1st place softball throw; C.J. Kelly, 3rd place 100 meter dash, 2nd place softball throw; Jonathan Kelly, 1st place 100 meter dash, 1st place softball throw; Rafael Ramos, 1st place 50 meter dash, 1st place softball throw; Demon Redwine, 1st place 100 meter dash, 3rd shot put; Montrey Redwine, 2nd place 100 meter dash, 2nd place shot put; Katelyn Russell, 2nd place 50 meter dash, 1st place softball throw; Jamal Taylor, 3rd place 50 meter dash, 2nd place softball throw. A very special thank you goes out to our Wildcat volunteers B.J. McCoy, Haley Tidwell, Wesley Farmer, Brinston Mitchell, & Zsaree Wallace.
Mrs. Hasbun and Mrs. Zwingmann’s Chemistry classes gathered together to show off their tie-dyed swag. It has become an annual tradition at VRHS for the Chemistry students to create their own tie-dyed t-shirts, and each year the patterns, colors, and creativity gets better and better.
Any student who feels he or she needs to take a summer school class(s), please stop by the Guidance Office as soon as possible and sign up on the appropriate counselor’s list. Your counselor will begin calling students up to receive summer school paperwork sometime after next week. Senior Final Exams on May 12th, 13th, and 16th: Thursday, May 12, 2011 – 1st, 3rd, and 7th Periods Friday, May 13, 2011 – 2nd, 4th, and 6th periods Monday, May 16, 2011 – 5th period May 19 th - Senior Breakfast 9:00 a.m. – 10:30 a.m. (VRHS Students and Faculty only; students need to wear black and white—dressy wear). Mandatory Graduation Practice 11:00 a.m. – 1:00 p.m. at VRHS Gym May 20 th – Class Picture on VRHS Football Field 8:00 a.m. ($15 payable at time of picture to Lifetouch Photography). Mandatory Graduation Practice 9:00 a.m. until 11:00 a.m. Senior Picnic (VRHS Students, Parents and Faculty only) Noon – 2:30 p.m. at V-Plex. Senior dues are now $105 and must be paid as soon as possible for all graduating seniors.In memory of Cheyenne Sauls, the Cheyenne Sauls Athletic Scholarship has been established at Villa Rica High School. Anyone who would like to contribute should make his/her check payable to Villa Rica High School and send to: VRHS 600 Rocky Branch Road Villa Rica, GA 30180 ATTN: Pam Davidson The VRHS Graduation Ceremony will take place at 9:00 AM on Saturday, May 21, 2011 at the Coliseum at The University of West Georgia. Guest admission is by ticket only. Each graduating senior will receive ten tickets to the ceremony. At this time, no more requests will be taken for additional Graduation tickets. Students will be notified by April 30th of how many of the additional requested tickets each student will receive. 
Mrs. Best recently visited Mrs. Cox's AP English Literature classes to talk about the AP test from a reader's perspective. She stressed to the students the importance of incorporating the skills they have learned and used over the last thirteen years in order to do well on the tests. The students were spellbound as Mrs. Best imparted her pearls of wisdom.
Mrs. Cox's AP Human Geography students (seen above, no specific order: Drew Ash, Macy Craig, Elizabeth Gosa, Shifali Patel, Rodney Hill, Carlos Figueroa, Mason Carroll, L.C. McTaggert, Alaina Terry, William Emedosi, Abbigayle Mathis, Anthony Nash, Callie Higgins, Karlie Weaver, Christin Jackson, and Taylor Tidaback) met April 16th to participate in an AP Review session known as "Mrs. Cox's Pajama Party 2011". Students put on their most comfortable lounge wear, brought their snacks, and put in a good day of reviewing for their upcoming AP Human Geography Exam.
Congratulations to Hannah Hurst who has been accepted to the Honors Program at the University of West Georgia where she will not only receive the Hope Scholarship based on her academic performance here at VRHS, but she has also been awarded UWG's most prestigious scholarship, the Presidential Scholarship. There are only eight Presidential Scholarships awarded per year, and it is awarded based on high school GPA, SAT/ACT score, and academic/extracurricular activities. Although an interview is sometimes required before a student is awarded this particular scholarship, Hannah was relieved to find out that she received this scholarship without having to go through the interview process...she's a little shy.
Coach Fuller and Mrs. Davis issued a challenge to all first period classes at VRHS to raise money for Special Olympics, and the first period class that raised the most money would be treated to a homemade breakfast courtesy of Coach Fuller, Mrs. Davis, and their students. The winners of the Change for Champions competition was Mrs. Hardegree's AP World History class, seen above.
Congratulations to the following students who were chosen as our VRHS Students of the Week. These students were nominated and chosen by their teachers, and they have exhibited the characteristics and traits of a Wildcat that has earned them this honor. This week's Students of the Week are (in no certain order) Ashley Buchanan, Ryan Cruz, Tyler Gentry, Emily Sullivan, Erica Pilgreen, Jared Hyde, Da'Ron Wyre, Nakella Daniel, Austin Williams, Briana Gibson, Lauren O'Neal, Conita Benson, Jasmine Prater, and Micah Hill.
Members of Mrs. Stassie's 2nd period Economics class listen intently to Ms. Sheila Denton (left), the store manager of Wells Fargo, and Terrance Young, personal banker (not pictured) as they discusses Wells Fargo's "Hands on Banking" program as part of National Financial Literacy Month, which is observed in April.
The VRHS AP Statistics class recently undertook a project to determine if Frootie Cereals were uniformly distributed. Seniors Courtney Tielking (left) and Jasmon Russell (right) took this project to the frootie extreme, pulling out all the stops with their frootified and bedazzled outfits. Courtney and Jasmon both prove that our Wildcats can exceed all expectations, and that here at VRHS, expect the unexpected!!!
Villa Rica High School's Academic Decathlon Team competed at the Academic Decathlon State Competition, representing Carroll County, February 25-26, 2011 at Berkmar High School in Lilburn, GA. Villa Rica placed Fifth in Division One and 10th Place overall out of the twenty-one top teams in Georgia. In addition to each team member receiving a state competition medal, Tori Procter won a Bronze medal in Language and Literature, a Gold in Essay, and a Gold in Impromptu Speech. Max Dubois secured a Silver in Impromptu Speech; Charlotte Nguyen collected a Bronze in Art, and Seth McCall also won a Bronze in Art. Shown above are (front row, left to right) Coach Cynthia Cox, Mary Huff, Max Dubois, Charlotte Nguyen, Rosa Perez (alumni), Natalie Rakoski, Dyllon Pendrak, Coach Kim Waters, and Team Mom/coach Iva Manley; (back row, left to right) Bus Driver Broderick Sumner, Brittany Archer, Tori Procter, Ryan Jones, Jeff Dawood, Seth McCall, and Coach Sarah Triplett.
Congratulations to the Villa Rica High School Literary Team for taking 2nd place in the Region 5AAAA Literary Competition. The competition was held on Saturday, March 12th at Douglas County High School. We are especially proud of Max Dubois who took 1st place in the Extemporaneous Speaking Competition. He will compete at the state level in Warner Robbins next Saturday. Other students competing this weekend were Ellen Barnes and Jonathan Walker, with Jonathan taking 4th in Boys Essay; Gage Lindsay and Carmen Chapman each placed 4th in Dramatic Interpretation; Lauren Whitaker took 2nd in Girls solo; Joshua Moses, John Dismukes, John Redding and Darrell Williams won 2nd place in Boys' Quartet; and Shantrice Laura, Lauren Whitaker, and Alex Sailer took 2nd in Girls' Trio. Congratulations to this team and their coaches, Sarah Parker, Cynthia Cox, Heather Miller and Mark Stich. Shown above are (front row, left to right) Shantrice Laura, Alex Sailer, Lauren Whitaker, Darrell Williams, Ellen Barnes, and Carmen Chapman; (back row, left to right) Jonathan Walker, Max Dubois, John Redding, Joshua Moses, Gage Lindsay, and John Dismukes.
Seven Wildcats recently attended the Regional Science and Engineering Fair, with five of them qualifying to compete in the State Science Fair. Tommy Hannah earned 3rd place in Chemistry, Shifali Patel earned 3rd place in Behavioral and Social Science, Amber Sheriff earned 2nd place in Chemistry, Breanna Hall earned 2nd place in Environmental Science, Kim Patel earned 2nd place in Physics, Kayla Smith earned 1st place in Computer Science, and Jana Duncan earned 1st place in Physics. 
Congratulations to Hannah Hurst, VRHS' 2010-2011 STAR Student, for being named the 2010-2011 Carroll County STAR Student!!!  
Recently, Mrs. Miller's 6th and 7th period students wrote persuasive essays addressed to the "School Board" to persuade them to remove Huck Finn from the American Literature curriculum because of its use of racial profanity. In their essays, they refuted opposition and offered potential solutions, and they did a wonderful job. 
Congratulations to Anna Turner, who entered the 2011 Creative Writing Contest and won third place for her poem "Hiding". All entries were read, and finalists were chosen by members of the Carrollton Creative Writers Club. Winners were then selected by this year’s guest author, Joe Cumming, a local poet, author and retired Bureau Chief of “Newsweek” Magazine, and the winners are invited to attend the Awards Luncheon and Workshop. This program is co-sponsored by the Carrollton Optimist Club, The Carrollton Creative Writers Club, and CPRCAD.
Each year, all high schools in the state of Georgia select a STAR student to represent outstanding academic achievement. The requirements for being named STAR student are quite demanding, including scoring highest on a single test date on the SAT. They must also be in the top 10% or be ranked among the top ten students numerically at their school. This year Villa Rica High School is very proud to announce that Miss Hannah Hurst has been named the 2010-2011 winner. Hannah has chosen Mrs. Samantha Green, former Math teacher and current Assistant Principal at Bay Springs Middle School, as her STAR teacher.
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Congratulations to Shannon Scott who was named a winner in the 2010 Carroll Symphony Orchestra Young Composer Competition for the second year in a row. Each year, CSO sponsors this event in which Conductor and Musical Director Terry Lowry submits a theme to every music, band, and chorus teacher in Carroll County, and they in turn encourage students to write a short composition based on the theme. Shannon is a junior at VRHS where she participates in the music program under the direction of Mr. Robert Smith, and she is a piano student of Mr. Neil Pollack. Pollack recently played Shannon's winning theme, aptly named "Shannon's Theme", on stage in a concert in Alabama and said that it was a highlight in the concert. Shannon names Miles Davis, Louis Armstrong, B. B. King, and Nat King Cole as her favorite musical artists, and she also gives a nod to Scott Joplin, who is one of her favorite pianists and composers, adding that "Pineapple Rag" and "Maple Leaf Rag" are two of her favorites to play. |
Twelve members of the Villa Rica High School Chorus participated in the Northwest Georgia Choral Festival at Shorter University on Monday, October 25th. Students selected by their choral directors rehearsed and performed with the Shorter Chorale under the direction of Dr. Martha Shaw. Attending this event with their director, Sarah Parker, were (front row, left to right) Alex Sailer, Regina Ward, Ellen Barnes, and Brittany Smith; (second row, left to right) Tori Fleck, Alisha Gross, Lauren Whitaker, Kim Lord, and Liz Tyson; (third row, left to right) Joshua Cousin, Geoffrey Brown, and Joshua Brown. 
Congratulations to our Governor’s Honors Program county-level nominees! These students were nominated by their teachers in the following areas: Communicative Arts, Math, Science-Biology, Social Studies, Foreign Language-Spanish, Visual Arts, and Music-Instrumental and Voice. They competed against other 10th and 11th grade students in our county for a chance to attend the State-Level Interview. If they are selected as a State Finalist, they will attend a four-week summer residential program on Valdosta State University’s campus. This year's nominees are (front row, left to right) Shifali Patel, Kim Patel, Breanna Hall, Cequoyah Gates, Myishia McKey, Lauren Whitaker and Natalie Rakoski (back row, left to right) Tiffane Taylor Davis, Annalysa Spears, Max Dubois, Dyllon Pendrak, Nick Parker, Ryan Jones, John Dismukes, Jessica Mooney, and Courtney Remillard. 
Congratulations to the following students for their success in the Special Olympics sectionals. Shown above are (front row, left to right) C.J. Kelly (2nd place), Jonathan Kelly (2nd place), and Julian Hatmaker (5th place); (second row, left to right) Jamal Taylor (1st place) and Rachel Cox (2nd place). First and second place winners will compete at the next level. 
Congratulations to the Wildcats above who competed admirably in the Special Olympics Bowling Tournament in Newnan on Friday, October 22nd. They are (from left to right) Ryan Daniel, Katie Russell, James Stephens, Julian Hatmaker, Jamal Taylor, Demon Redwine, Kenya Cousin, C.J. Kelly, Jonathon Kelly, Montrey Redwine, Rachael Cox, Rafael Ramos, and Kelly Villegas (Assistant). Congratulations to VRHS for making AYP!!! According to ajc.com, Georgia public schools lost ground at every level this year on increasingly tougher federal testing goals, with 29 percent of all schools failing to make AYP (annual yearly progress). In addition, the state’s high schools, which already had the worst record of the state's three classifications, fell even further behind with 67 percent of Georgia high schools not making AYP, which is down from 53 percent last year. However, the students, faculty, and staff of VRHS met the challenge and WE MADE AYP!!! According to the Georgia Department of Education website, AYP under NCLB (No Child Left Behind) is more stringent than AYP under previous ESEA (Elementary and Secondary Education Act) laws. AYP now requires schools to meet criteria in three areas: 95% test participation (for both Mathematics and Reading/English Language Arts), academic performance (for both Mathematics and Reading/English Language Arts), and a second indicator (which for VRHS was graduation rate). VRHS met the AYP criteria in all three areas. Congratulations, Wildcats!!! During the week of September 20th - 24th, VRHS celebrated Homecoming Week. Considered to be the most amazing Homecoming Week in recent memory, the week was filled with spirited contests, a great pep rally, an outstanding parade, and a thrilling Homecoming victory on the football field over Douglas County. The seniors really stepped it up this year, winning the Dress-up Days competition, the Hall Decorating competition, and the Spirit Stick and Mattress Race competitions at the pep rally on their way to becoming the Overall Class Winner of Homecoming 2010. The sophomore class prevented a senior sweep as they were able to pick up a win in the T-shirt competition. At the pep rally, Dee Thompson was crowned VRHS Homecoming King, while April Doyal was crowned VRHS Homecoming Queen at halftime of the game Friday night.
Congratulations to the following students who were chosen as our VRHS Students of the Week. These students were nominated and chosen by their teachers, and they have exhibited the characteristics and traits of a Wildcat that has earned them this honor. This week's Students of the Week are (in no certain order) Daniel Holland, Shannon Scott, Lane Horne, Michael Dudley, Hannah Pelfrey, Deja Almond, Justin Worthington, Brittany Belt, Jacob Morgan, Arienna Holliday, Philip Marino, Jordan Wilson, Madison Lee, Brittany Archer, Victor Huberta, Tori Henry, Gera Hall, Aaliyah Thomas, Diamond Vaughn, Drew Lewis, Cassandra Vongxayasy, and Ryan Cruz.
Congratulations to the following students who were chosen as our VRHS Students of the Week. These students were nominated and chosen by their teachers, and they have exhibited the characteristics and traits of a Wildcat that has earned them this honor. This week's Students of the Week are (in no certain order) Jonathan Walker, Tori Procter, Shifali Patel, Abbigayle Mathis, Jessica Wheeler, Darrell Williams, Ashley Buchanan, Max Dubois, Matt Tedder, Gera Hall, Haley Talton, Drew Lewis, Margaux Roggeri, Blake Shreckengost, Darrell Turner, Nikki Reichner, Greg Padgett, Delaney Walker, Jessica Savoie, Rafael Ramos, Trevor Jones, and Hannah Sanders.
Congratulations to the following students who were chosen as our VRHS Students of the Week. These students were nominated and chosen by their teachers, and they have exhibited the characteristics and traits of a Wildcat that has earned them this honor. This week's Students of the Week are (in no certain order) Christy Clark, Jamir Floyd, Destiny Laricey, Kevin Dunham, Tiffane Taylor Davis, Cassandra Vongxayasy, David Eidson, Wayne Long, Caitilen Swann, Katie Phillips, Austin Phillips, Donal McTier, Janetta Cowser, Ashley Bentenbaugh, Mavis Ghanem, Treber Hayes, Todd Davis, and Miya Jackson.
Congratulations to the following students who were chosen as our VRHS Students of the Week. These students were nominated and chosen by their teachers, and they have exhibited the characteristics and traits of a Wildcat that has earned them this honor. This week's Students of the Week are (in no certain order) Jessica Jennings, Justin Ellis, Jordan Champagne, Tricia Madrez, Luke Waldrop, Cheyenne Carter, Robert Aldridge, Mikayla North, Adam Thomason, Breanna Hillman, Brittany Smith, Taylor Parrish, Kenya Cousin, Demon Redwine, Jamaal Webb, and Amanda Hicks.
Congratulations to the following students who were chosen as our VRHS Students of the Week. These students were nominated and chosen by their teachers, and they have exhibited the characteristics and traits of a Wildcat that has earned them this honor. This week's Students of the Week are (in no certain order) Magan Thomas, Victor Huberta, Breanna Hillman, Jonathan Clark, Haley Talton, Michael Relf, Juanita Conchas, Anthony Nash, Cody Gentry, Sydney Rollins, Xavier Hudson, Reese Gilmer, Miranda Brown, and Michael Nolan.
Congratulations to the following students who were chosen as our VRHS Students of the Week. These students were nominated and chosen by their teachers, and they have exhibited the characteristics and traits of a Wildcat that has earned them this honor. This week's Students of the Week are (in no certain order) Ashley Walker, Jonathan Walker, Alyssa Steed, Casey Evans, Brett Daniel, Chelsey Roberts, Alex Camp, Morgan Hinley, Amber Lara, Myron Brown, Rachael Cox, Brandon Echol, and Taylor Carnes. 
Congratulations to the following students who were chosen as our VRHS Students of the Week. These students were nominated and chosen by their teachers, and they have exhibited the characteristics and traits of a Wildcat that has earned them this honor. This week's Students of the Week are (in no certain order) Kevin Nguyen, Kelsie Maciejewski, Amber Sheriff, David Dockins, Colby Carnes, Aushanna Rainge, John Lay, Carolina Figueroa, Emily Sullivan, Josh Brown, James Stephens, William Emedosi, Aaron Wright, Keiola Crowder, and Lucan Brown.
Congratulations to the following students who were chosen as our VRHS Students of the Week. These students were nominated and chosen by their teachers, and they have exhibited the characteristics and traits of a Wildcat that has earned them this honor. This week's Students of the Week are (in no certain order) Karen Howell, Davey Matthews, Brandon Miller, Thomas Weatherford, Chelsea Neese, Mike Reed, Kayland Crowder, Donna Phillips, Anthony Nashpriya Patel, Shon Fairley, John Adair, Kelly Villegas, Kelsie Chambers, Ryan Dollar, Angerika Colbert, Daniel Holley, Ashley Bentenbaugh, and Taylor Parrish. 
Congratulations to the following students who were chosen as our VRHS Students of the Week. These students were nominated and chosen by their teachers, and they have exhibited the characteristics and traits of a Wildcat that has earned them this honor. This weeks Students of the Week are (in no certain order) Erica Pilgreen, Anthony Nash, Sharad Drayton, Heather Landers, Steven Vanskiver, Kylee Merritts, Billy White, Angerika Colbert, Mary Huff, Steven Kegley, Jacob Pirkle, Taylor Tidaback, Adalis Kendrix, Donal McTier, Brooke Barnwell, Karlton Dowie, Jessica Dyer, and Mavis Ghanem. 
Congratulations to the following students who were chosen as our VRHS Students of the Week. These students were nominated and chosen by their teachers, and they have exhibited the characteristics and traits of a Wildcat that has earned them this honor. This weeks Students of the Week are (in no certain order) Destiny Gwynn, Jeremy Flanagan, Kayla Smith, Shifali Patel, Haley Watkins, Kelsey Wood, Wade Bailey, Jessica Wheeler, Leslie Soto, Chris Reece, Andrew Witte, Cheyene Cox, Jaleen Reeves, Melandy Dudley, Joshua Clark, Kayla Wills, Shaiqies Alford, and Sara Robinson. 
Congratulations to the following students who were chosen as our VRHS Students of the Week. These students were nominated and chosen by their teachers, and they have exhibited the characteristics and traits of a Wildcat that has earned them this honor. This weeks Students of the Week are (in no certain order) Amariah Beedles, Joshua Lay, Esteban Medrano, Amber Freeman, Jack Bernhardt, Bree England, Emmanuel Pearson, Kayla McCoy, Doug Eidson, Meranda Webb, Damian Sanspree, Courtney Richards, Brandon Reece, Kim Patel, Jana Duncan, Christian Harris, Joshua Cousin, and Brandy Siebert. 
Congratulations to the following students who were chosen as our VRHS Students of the Week. These students were nominated and chosen by their teachers, and they have exhibited the characteristics and traits of a Wildcat that has earned them this honor. This weeks Students of the Week are (in no certain order) Geoffrey Brown, Taylor Vance, Jessi Ricks, Wayne Long, B.J. Wilson, Amariah Beedles, Devon Tindol, Sierra Brown, Stephanie Winters, Austin Thomas, Elijahe Graves, Taylor Gamble, Tatiana Cordero, Bret Flakes, Kirsten Fortner, Cory Aja, Diamond Vaughn, and Andrew Witte. 
Congratulations to the following students who were chosen as our VRHS Students of the Week. These students were nominated and chosen by their teachers, and they have exhibited the characteristics and traits of a Wildcat that has earned them this honor. This weeks Students of the Week are (in no certain order) David Ray, Nichole Johnson, Brandon Reece, Olivia Reeves, Brinston Mitchell, Hallie Robison, Ellen Barnes, Tommy Hannah, Brandon Butler, Courtney Tielking, D.J. Wilson, Shelly Tillman, Emily Sullivan, Kyle Lane, Justin Mappas, K’Moni Moore, Callie Higgins, and Micheal Dudley.
FCCLA members created a chapter fair booth for competition at the Georgia National Fair in Perry. Members used the FCCLA theme "65 Years of Leadership" and Dr. Seuss characters to promote state and national programs. VRHS FCCLA won first place in the competition.
125 children and their parents attended the Villa Rica Pumpkin Fest on October 16th. They were able to enjoy pumpkin decorating, face painting, Moon Walk bouncing, and many other activities. Fourteen Villa Rica High School FCCLA members and Family & Consumer Science students volunteered to make this day a success!
Three FCCLA members (shown above, left to right), Taylor Millians, Amber Webb, and Katie Hackney, have been promoting No Texting While Driving to VRHS students. On February 2, 2011, around 500 students made the pledge not to text and drive. During the pledge, the students donated money towards the cause. These FCCLA members raised around $50, and they want students to please remember that texting while driving kills.
On Saturday September 25, 2010, the Villa Rica High School Marching Wildcat Band participated in the 30th annual Phenix Invitational Marching Festival in Phenix City, Alabama. The band performed admirably on the field, bringing eight trophies home to Villa Rica. The band earned superior color guard, superior pit percussion, superior battery percussion, superior drum major, and superior band. Over and above these honors, the Villa Rica Marching Wildcats won first place best in class color guard, first place best in class pit percussion, and second place overall for division 2A. The band's next competition performance will be Saturday October 2, 2010, at the Armuchee Band Invitational in Rome, Georgia.
During the weekend of January 20th - 23rd, The University of Georgia in Athens became a center for music and camaraderie between thousands of high school students across the state. Eight of these students represented Villa Rica High School (seen above with Band Director Mr. Smith (far right), left to right): Kevin Dunham, Taylor Davis, Summer Pruitt, Anna Turner, Ryan Turner, Ellen Barnes, Kelsie Chambers, and Shannon Scott. While in Athens, six of the students participated in UGA JanFest's various honor bands, in which they had several long rehearsals over three days and a performance on Sunday, and two students participated in the UGA Marching Redcoat's color guard camp, where they had the opportunity to learn and perform two routines with the Georgettes. The students represented VRHS with pride!
The VRHS Wildcat Band would like to recognize three of its members, Tiffane Taylor Davis, Ryan Dollar, and Kevin Dunham, for being chosen to be a part of Georgia Music Educator’s Association’s District 7 Honor Band. These three students will be travelling to Heritage High School in Ringgold, Georgia on Thursday, February 17, 2011, for a three-day workshop and performance with hundreds of students from northwest Georgia. The final concert will be held on Saturday evening, February 19, 2011 at the performance hall at Heritage High School. Taylor, Ryan, and Kevin have made and will continue to make Villa Rica proud!
On August 30, 2010, members of the U.S. Army and a representative from the Stewart Haas Racing Team visited the local Chapter of Future Business Leaders of America at Villa Rica High School. Mr. Bob Headlund, from Stewart Haas Racing, talked about racing for the Stewart Haas Racing Team, which is sponsored by the U.S. Army, and the specialties of the demonstration sprint car. SFC Croft, who is an Exhibits Specialist, spoke of the different jobs you can have in the U.S. Army. He explained that there are over 150 careers to choose from in the Army besides being a soldier on the battlefield. Some jobs mentioned were veterinarians, nurses, doctors, computer technologists and many more. SSG Goins talked about all the benefits of joining the Army. While in the Army, SSG Goins has served in Somalia with Pat Tillman, a former NFL player who resigned from the league to serve his country after 9/11, and he has been able to travel all over the world. SSG Goins spoke of having a college education to be an officer in the Army and he also spoke about the opportunities to receive money for college while serving your country. For more information on the U.S. Army contact SSG Goins at (770) 834-4783. Shown with the Stewart Haas Racing Team demonstration sprint car is FBLA Advisor Mr. Odom, Exhibits Specialist SFC Croft, Bob Headlund of Stewart Haas Racing, FBLA Advisor Mrs. Moses, and local Army recruiters SSG Goins and SSG O'Roke. Story courtesy of Myisha McKey
The Villa Rica High School Chapter of Future Business Leaders of America held an Officer Installation Ceremony on September 9 th. Officers were charged to work as a team and to do the job they were selected for. The FBLA Mission is to bring business and education together in a positive working relationship through innovative leadership and career development programs. We bring our mission to life through the application of our Motto: Service, Education, and Progress. Shown above are (left to right) Myishia McKey, Reporter; Sierra Brown, Secretary; Keith Millans, President; Ansley Suddeth, Vice President; and Kelsey Sheriff, Treasurer. Story courtesy of Myishia McKey
Members of the 2010 - 2011 VRHS Beta Club proudly wave the new Wildcat Spirit flags that the 2009 - 2010 Beta Club donated to the school before our Homecoming game against Douglas County. We hope to see these flags many times during the football season as the flag bearers race them back and forth in front of the Wildcat faithful after each touchdown.
Villa Rica High School's Beta Club participated in the Wreaths Across America Project as their 2010 service project. The club sold wreath sponsorships for $15, and each sponsorship secures a fresh evergreen wreath for an American veteran's grave during Christmas time. The first ten dollars of the sponsorship covers the cost of the wreath while the remaining five dollars goes to a charity chosen by the Beta Club. The Beta Club has chosen the West Georgia Chapter of American Gold Star Mothers, Inc. as their charity. American Gold Star Mothers, Inc. is a veterans service organization comprised of mothers who have lost a son or daughter while he or she was serving our country. The West Georgia Chapter contributes to many charities, including Toys for Tots, Fisher House, Wounded Warriors, as well as giving of their time at Veterans Hospitals and centers.
The Wreaths Across America Project, which is in its twentieth year, began at Arlington National Cemetery in Washington, D.C. This year, Wreaths Across America has set a goal to find sponsors for each of the 300,000 graves at Arlington National Cemetery. Their ultimate goal is to honor every veteran's grave, wherever they rest each year. The VRHS Beta Club has decided to continue their wreath sponsorship drive until next December. If you would like to sponsor a wreath, please contact Ms. Liz Banks, the Beta Club sponsor, or any member of the Beta Club. To find out more about Wreaths Across America or American Gold Star Mothers, Inc., please see their websites at www.wreathsacrossamerica.org and www.goldstarmoms.com.
Shown above are members of the West Georgia Chapter of American Gold Star Mothers, Inc. and officers from the VRHS Beta Club (left to right) Patti Saylor, Hannah Pelfrey, Courtney Tielking, Amber Sheriff, Cindy Hardegree, Becky Tucker, Ada Large, Ashley Walker, Florence McSween, and Tammy Stout.
All five Wildcat starters scored in double-figures as the Villa Rica High School boys basketball team defeated Douglas County 89-84 Tuesday night. The game did not count towards the Wildcats' region record, and the Wildcats were set with a No. 3 seed going into the region tournament, but Villa Rica coach Jason Robinson was happy with the effort his team displayed. "I'm proud of the guys, it being a non-region game we could have come out flat and went through the motions," Robinson said. "But it meant something to them. It was a total team effort." The five starters for the Wildcats scored 84 of the team's 89 points. Orlandis Hill led Villa Rica with 23 points, Dee Thompson added 19 points, Isaiah Lay scored 16 points, Sharad Drayton had 15 points and Lakeem Mincey chipped in with 11 points. With the win Villa Rica (20-5, 10-3 Region 5-AAAA) achieves one of its goals set this summer, and every season by the team, of reaching 20 wins. "It was a goal we made early on this summer, and to be honest with you that's a goal every year for us," Robinson said. "We've been right on the doorstep, the seniors have been right on the doorstep of a 20-win season every year. It's very satisfying." The Wildcats completed the 2009-10 season with 17 wins, the 2008-09 season with 13 wins and 17 wins in 2007-08. Villa Rica will not play until next week in the region tournament. The No. 3 seed will give the Wildcats a bye in the first round. "Just looking forward to playing that first game in the region tournament and happy to come out with a win that will guarantee us a place in the state tournament," Robinson said.
Photo and story courtesy of the Times-Georgian
Congratulations to the VRHS JV Lady Wildcats Volleyball team for taking 2 nd Place in the Silver Bracket of the Rockmart “Queen of the Court” tournament September 25th! The Lady Wildcats also upset North Paulding, the top team in the area, September 27th. Way to go Lady CATS! Keep up the hard work ladies…we are proud of you!
The faculty and students of VRHS came together Tuesday, May 17th to celebrate Honors Night. Awards were given in the fields of English, Fine Arts, Foreign Language, Math, Physical Education, Science, Social Studies, CTAE, Quiz Bowl, Academic Decathlon, Governor’s Honors Nominees, and National Spanish Honors Society. In addition, the VRHS Honor Graduates were named and many students were recognized with individual awards: Caroline Sutton (Valedictorian), Anna Conner (Salutatorian), Kory Zachary and Bria Hollins (Army Reserves), Matthew Bates and Thomas Fendley (Eagle Scout), Doug Eidson and Josh Brown (Marine Corps), Hannah Hurst (STAR Student), Courtney Tielking (Woodsmen of the World and Kiwanis), Alexsis Vader (McDonald’s Ray Kroc), Jasmyne Hill (Wendy’s Heisman), Becky Tucker and Charlotte Nguyen (Fairfield Women’s Book Club), Shaye Holloway (WGTC Board of Directors), Deantee Monroe (Tiny Cole), Jacob Morgan (Villa Rica Eye Clinic), Alexander Morgan (Cheyenne Sauls Memorial), and Courtney Tielking and Jasmon Russell (Leadership). Seen above are (left to right) Adam Herring, VRHS principal; Caroline Sutton, Valedictorian; Anna Conner, Salutatorian; and Scott Cowart, Carroll County Schools Superintendent.
Mr. Herring welcomes our new head football coach, Coach Falleur, to VRHS. Coach Falleur is currently the head football coach and athletic director at Northwest Whitfield High School, where he has been since 2002. Before coaching at Northwest Whitfield, Falleur had been a head coach at Tucker High School, Burke County High School, and Elbert County High School.
Falleur has a combined record of 142-70 as a head coach, since he started in 1992, as well as 12 state playoff berths, including a GHSA Class AAA state runner-up finish in 1997 while with Burke County. Falleur also took his 1994 Tucker team to the state semifinals.
Falleur earned both his bachelor and master degrees from the University of Arkansas. He and his wife, Dana Falleur, have one son, Justin.
Story courtesy of Times-Georgian
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