Newsletter

CongratulationsClass of 2021 Macon East Academy is proud to recognize the graduating Class of 2021. The 36-member class earned approximately $3.1 million in merit-based and athletic scholarships. Members of the Class of 2021 were accepted to a total of 54 colleges and universities. In their senior year, the Class of 2021 led the athletics program to State Championships in boys basketball and a state runner-up title in softball. Five members of this year’s class have signed athletic scholarships to participate at the collegiate level. Will Desmarais addressed the class as Valedictorian, and Jonathan Mathis gave the Salutatory address Each graduate is representative of the high standards of academic achievement, student life, and Christian values that are the foundation of Macon East Academy. We are proud of these graduates and ready to see them lead the way. Learning, Growing, Belonging and Succeeding! Distinguished Knight 6TH GRADE COMMENCEMENT Award Junior High - Here They Come!

Macon East sixth grade student, Sarah Davis, received the Distinguished Knight Award at the Sixth Grade Commencement. Sarah is such a super student. Congratulations Sarah!

Front Row: Madison Vocino, Addison Longcrier, Grace Roy, Gracie Strickland, Kaci Armistead, Bella Chambers, and Sarah Davis. Back Row: Coleman Nickles, Kaden Pouncy, Brody McGinty, MJ Belser, Carson Brown, York Harless and Parker Ruskin.

Congratulations to the Class of 2033!

Seventeen precious kindergarteners were dressed in white robes with royal blue MEA shawls. Mrs. Lawrence’s class entertained parents, grandparents and students at their commencement ceremony. This amazing class focused on reading, math and essential readiness skills. They used their iPads for additional enrichment activities this year. Welcome to first grade little Knights!

Front row: Gracelynn Yeager, Thomas Eubank, Noah Mallinson, Bryson Hood, Logan Jucknies, Emmie Johnson, Lizzie Kate Dorsey, and Michael Boyd Schroeder. Back row: Cora Lesperance, Diamond Hardeman, Slade Kyser, Mason Taylor, Stephen Abrams, Keenan Cenidoza, Cole Harris, Parker Motley, and Cooper Cannon.

2 / MACON EAST SPRING 2021 NEWSLETTER / 2 ELEMENTARY HONORS AWARDS

FIRST GRADE THIRD GRADE FIFTH GRADE Sagamore: Allie Jane Meadows Sagamore: Halyn Wren Sagamore: Bentley Graham A HONOR ROLL A HONOR ROLL A HONOR ROLL Lathan Glass Ella Loughridge Eli Churchwell S.J. Jemison Ashley Davis Bentley Graham Rylen Jones Avery Kyser Allie Jane Meadows A/B HONOR ROLL Aubrey Smith Coats Newell Ashtyn Clayton Arjun Patel Ella Grace Hagans A/B HONOR ROLL A/B HONOR ROLL Mayson Lott Brandon Fitch Austen Barto Sladen Meadows Matthew Simpson Brooks Black Sara Kate Messick Campbell Loughridge Luke Davis Halyn Wren Kwesiona Jernigan SIXTH GRADE Cathan Jones FOURTH GRADE Sagamore: Madison Vocino Cash Longcrier Sagamore: Bella Ann Spires A HONOR ROLL Case Sanford A HONOR ROLL Kaci Armistead Ava Noffsinger Parker Ruskin SECOND GRADE Arush Patel Madison Vocino Sagamore: Elias McCurdy Bella Ann Spires A HONOR ROLL Jon David Spires A/B HONOR ROLL Maddie Lim Sarah Davis Elias McCurdy A/B HONOR ROLL Grace Roy Maddy Thor Sophie Clark Harper Underwood Tyler Clayton Kwesi Jernigan A/B HONOR ROLL MaKayla Purifoy Hayden Herring Myla Robledo Max McIntosh Logan Sconyers Brynlee Sconyers Kylie Taylor Wyatt Streetman Caroline Vocino Congratulations!

MACON EAST SPRING 2021 NEWSLETTER / 3 LOWER SCHOOL NEWS

FOURTH GRADERS IN THE OUTDOOR CLASSROOM

Mrs. Marjorie Johnson’s fourth grade class experienced a very special learning activity. Working as groups, the fourth graders created five fairy gardens in the lower school Outdoor Classroom. Other lower school classes had fun searching for all the fairy homes tucked away in the garden. It was a fun project that focused on teamwork and creativity. THIRD GRADERS ARE AWESOME!

The 3rd grade class has been very busy this spring. They finished a novel study of the book, The One and Only Ivan. This book was amazing and to end their study they created a circus of their own- kind of like the setting of the book. They also each decorated a cool animal poster and made it bright and silly like the characters in the book!

BIKES AND TRIKES! They were also busy studying all about Earth Day and Our pre-school students enjoyed their Annual Bike and participated in a lot of fun Trike Day. They had to pass their driver’s test to get their activities. One project was license from Deputy Hill. They also did laps around making a mascot of our own the parking lot for fun! What a great way to end the to celebrate Earth Day. They Transportation Unit! also received cabbage plants from Bonnie Plant Farms to plant and watch grow at home. The cabbage program is specifically for 3rd graders. Participants watch and record their plants and send in pictures to Bonnie Plants. The largest plants will receive scholarship money to help students with college! Third Grade is Awesome!

4 / MACON EAST SPRING 2021 NEWSLETTER / 4 L aUREL Hill FARM Author and Nugget Visit Macon East Students

Macon East students were treated to a visit from children’s book author, Blaire Carter Graham. Blaire shared her book called Nugget’s Prayer with the students and even brought Nugget along for lots of love. Blaire lives on Laurel Hill Farm in Shorter, Alabama and has lots of animals where she draws her inspiration for her books. Blaire aims to inspire young and old readers to be strong and confident about who they are and where they are from. She also wants readers to know the importance of friends and family. One bible verse she holds close to her heart is Joshua 1:9 “Be strong and courageous. Do not be afraid. Do not be discouraged, for the Lord your God is with you wherever you go.”

LANARK FIELD TRIP

Our 2nd grade students enjoyed a field trip to Lanark Nature Center with their teacher Ms. Kathy Loomis and parents. It was a beautiful day for them to go hiking through the trails, fish with cane poles, and get a little wet during their creek walk looking for Alabama Clay.

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MACON EAST SPRING 2021 NEWSLETTER / 5 FIELD DAY FUN! TEACHER APPRECIATION WEEK AT MACON The first week of May is National Teacher Appreciation Week and Macon East Academy’s Lower School students were excited to the MEA PTO gave our All-Star Teachers and Staff the MVP see the return of Field Day on May 6. This day of fun, sun, and treatment! Our All-Stars enjoyed a Luncheon catered by Fire Meats friendly competition between classmates is much anticipated Wood with homemade desserts and salads provided by parent every year. The Blue and Red teams gave it their best in a volunteers. We had a fun raffle drawing at the Luncheon with variety of old-school athletic events from relay races to the tons of fun gifts to choose from. Throughout the week the teachers water balloon toss. Lott joined the festivities by grilling breakrooms were stocked with concession stand snacks and they delicious hamburgers and hotdogs for everyone to enjoy at enjoyed a breakfast of champions. Each class also showered their lunchtime. The afternoon brought the exciting final game and teacher with fan mail and special gifts. It was a wonderful way to the always fun event between the teachers. The last event of the show our admiration and gratitude to those that teach our children day determined that the Red team came on top and will every day! The students at Macon East Academy are blessed to have have bragging rights and the Field Day trophy until next year’s such a terrific group of teachers and staff at our school. games. All the kids cooled off afterwards with refreshing Kona Ice and sprinkler fun on the football field.

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6 / MACON EAST SPRING 2021 NEWSLETTER / 6 MACON EAST ACADEMY ART SHOW WINNERS!

Congratulations to all students who placed in the 2021 Macon East Academy Art Show, AISA District Art Show and AISA State Winners! We are so proud of these students and their commitment to the visual arts! Macon East Academy has a wonderful visual arts program. Summer Kyser does an incredible job and encourages her students to explore various art mediums, techniques, personal expression, independence and expands their creativity.

K5-1ST GRADE: Painting: Cooper Cannon (1st place), Lizzie Kate Dorsey (2nd place) and Keenan Cenidoza (3rd place.) Printmaking: Lizzie Kate Dorsey (Best of Show, 1st place, 2nd Place in District), Case Sanford (2nd place), Thomas Eubank (3rd place), Allie Jane Meadows, Rylen Jones and Luke Davis (Honorable Mention). Drawing Color: Holden Robinson (1st place), Hunter Battle (2nd place), Coats Newell (3rd place) and Jack Davis (Honorable Mention). Collage/ Mixed Media: Noah Mathis (1st place), Coats Newell (2nd place and 2nd place in District), Walker Pickett (3rd place), Allie Jane Meadows, S.J. Jemison, Lathan Glass, Luke Davis, Bryson Hood, Cash Longcrier, and Logan Jucknies (Honorable Mention).

2ND – 3RD GRADE: Drawing Color: Rory Girdner (1st place), Sladen Meadows (2nd place and 2nd place in District), Zola Ward (3rd place), Brynlee Sconyers; Huck Ellison, and Halyn Wren (Honorable Mention). Collage/ Mixed Media: Ashtyn Clayton (Best of Show and 1st place), Halyn Wren (2nd place and 1st place District), Maddy Thornton (3rd place) and Ella Loughridge, Hayden Herring, Ty Sanford, and Zola Ward (Honorable Mention).

4TH -6TH GRADE: Painting: Avery Kyser (1st place) Water Base: Ava Noffsinger (1st place), Matthew Simpson (2nd place), and Avery Kyser (3rd place). Printmaking: Austin Lashlee (1st place, 3rd place District), Campbell Loughridge (2nd place), and Brandon Fitch (3rd place). Drawing Color: Brandon Fitch (1st place, 3rd place District), Ava Noffsinger (2nd place), and Kwesi Jernigan (3rd place). Collage/ Mixed Media: Brody McGinty (Best of Show and 1st place), Addison Longcrier (2nd place), Bentley Graham (3rd place), Gracie Strickland, and Lucy Brown (Honorable Mention). Drawing Non-Color: Christian McGalliard (1st and 2nd place).

7TH – 9TH GRADE: Painting: Sydney Phelps (1st place, 3rd place District), Collin Blount (2nd place), and Will Dekle (3rd place). Printmaking: Jacob Simpson (1st place), Pressley Graham (2nd place), and Hagan Owens (3rd place). Drawing Non-Color: Ethan Jones (1st place, 2nd place and Honorable Mention, 2nd place District), and Gunner Justice (3rd place). Drawing Color: Kacy Rutland (1st and 3rd place), and Jameson Byrom (2nd place) 3-D Arts/ Crafts: Ethan Jones (1st and 2nd place, 2nd place District) and Elise Logan (3rd place). Collage/ Mixed Media: Will Dekle (1st place, 1st place District), Jordan Rossell (2nd place, Honorable Mention District) and Elliot Fitch (3rd place). Photography: Ethan Jones (1st and 3rd place, 2nd place District), and Jacob Simpson (2nd place, 3rd place District). Best of Show: Ethan Jones

10TH – 12TH GRADE: Drawing Color: Luke Noffsinger (1st Place, 2nd Place, 3rd Place and Honorable Mention, 2nd place District, 1st place State), Ali Churchwell and Allison Magda (Honorable Mention). Collage/ Mixed Media: Luke Noffsinger (1st place and 2nd place, 3rd place District), and Abby Ledlow (3rd place). Drawing Non-Color: Luke Noffsinger (1st and 3rd place), and Allison Magda (2nd place). Painting: Sydney Sullivan (1st place, 2nd place District), Anna Dickson Beck (2nd place), and Alyssa Clark (3rd place). 3-D Art/Crafts: Luke Noffsinger (1st place, 1st place District), and Allison Magda (2nd and 3rd place). Photography: Luke Noffsinger (1st and 2nd place, 2nd place and Honorable Mention District). Best of Show: Luke Noffsinger

OVERALL BEST OF SHOW: Luke Noffsinger

MACON EAST SPRING 2021 NEWSLETTER / 7 JIMMY HITCHCOCK AWARD LIONS CLUB SCHOLARSHIP Seniors, Tanner Moore and WINNERS Georgia Blaze represented Two outstanding students Macon East Academy at the from the Macon East 62nd annual Jimmy Hitchcock Academy senior class Memorial Award ceremony. were chosen for the Since 1959, the objective of the Montgomery Lions Club Jimmy Hitchcock Memorial Scholarship. To have two Award program has been to students from one school recognize Christian leadership in is unprecedented for this athletics and to encourage and prestigious scholarship. inspire others to emulate the man Mary Hunter Wright whose memory is perpetuated by and Tanner Moore were this award. Each year coaches selected as two winners nominate senior athletes who have out of the six total for the Montgomery area. They were selected displayed the most outstanding to attend the Lions Club high school leadership conference as qualities of Christian leadership in athletics and possesses juniors and competed to win these outstanding scholarships. the following qualities: strong character, dependability, 100% Congratulations to both Mary Hunter and Tanner - we are very effort, team leadership, church leadership, school leadership, proud of you! and scholastic leadership. Freshman students who exhibit these same qualities are also invited to attend the annual banquet and be recognized. This year, Katie Kitchens and Chase Lashlee represented Macon East Academy as 8th grade certificate recipients. We are very proud of Tanner, Georgia, Chase and Katie who are all honored to be part of a prestigious group of Hitchcock nominees.

ALFA YOUTH LEADERSHIP CONFERENCE

An elite group of ninth and tenth graders from throughout Alabama attended the Alfa Youth Leadership Conference at the 4-H Center in Columbiana on April 29-30. Anna Watson, Wade Desmarais, Ryan Russell, Matthew Kitchens, Anna Glynn Lott and Jack Jones were selected as Macon East Academy representatives.

Students applied for the conference which focused on training future leaders. It is sponsored by the Alabama Farmers Federation, GEOMETRY Alabama Farmers Agriculture STRING ART Foundation, county Farmers Federations and Alabama Farm Credit (AFC). Attendees Students in Mrs. Karen came from 30 counties and worked to identify personal Harris’ geometry class strengths, develop negotiation skills and discover a passion recently participated for service. The agenda included team-building activities at in a string art project. the 4-H Center’s challenge course and teen safety workshops. This was a hands-on art AFC was a new supporter of the program this year and project that incorporated sponsored motivational speaker and leadership trainer Rhett mathematical concepts Front Row: Gabe Spencer, Jaden Rossell, Kacy Rutland, and was a great way to get Laubach who challenged students to be a positive influence Kaiden Byrom, Sara Cochran, Pressley Graham and Mrs. on their peers. Karen Harris. Back Row: Jordan Rossell, Anna Watson, students to like geometry Abby Wilson, Camden Bell, Carson Carmack, Jameson and fractions. Byrom, and Jacob Simpson.

8 / MACON EAST FALL 2020 NEWSLETTER National Honor Society Inductions

The Macon East Academy chapter of the National Honor Society and National Junior Honor Society recently held its annual induction ceremonies. The NHS and NJHS are worldwide organizations that consists of students from around the country. The selection of members is based on five criteria: citizenship, service, leadership, scholarship, and character. Each member is expected to maintain a high academic standard while being active in their community through volunteer service projects. The goal of each chapter is to recognize academic achievement and to develop the characteristics of leadership and service. NJHS

Congratulations to the students on their outstanding accomplishments in academics and leadership. This year’s inductees into the National Junior Honor Society are: Cole Streetman, Braiden Watkins, Peyton Baggott, Jackson Todd, Elliot Fitch, Jacob Caddell, and Mattie Pugh.

Under the advisement of Ms. Erica Hammonds, the 2020-2021 NJHS is led by Kaiden Byrom (President), Anna Watson (Vice President), Kacy Rutland (Secretary) and Barrett Spaeth (Chaplain).

NHS

Congratulations to this year’s inductees into the National Honor Society: Sawyer Nelson, Anna Glynn Lott, Madison May, Ryan Russell, Tyler Brown, Jack Jones, Wade Desmarais, Kathryn Barker, Matthew Kitchens and Joshwa Browder. Stone Yarnell and Rachel Major (not pictured)

The National Honor Society Officers are:Colby Cox (President), Luke Noffsinger (Vice President), Tanner Moore (Secretary), Will Desmarais (Treasurer) and Mary Hunter Wright (Chaplain)

MACON EAST SPRING 2021 NEWSLETTER / 9 BAD AUDITIONS BY BAD ACTORS

The Macon East Academy’s drama program’s production of “Bad Auditions by Bad Actors” by Ian McWethy earned big laughs during the performance on Friday, May 14. Seniors Georgia Blaze and Jonathan Mathis played a newly assigned casting director and her well-meaning, foolish assistant that have one day to find the leads for a community theater production of Romeo and Juliet in hopes to impress the theater director, played by freshman Ethan Jones. This hilarious comedy brought the audience behind the doors of a casting session teeming with extreme method acting, anxious hands, a cat in a woman’s body, inappropriate rapping, and a very uncomforting puppeteer.

“I am so amazed by the students and all that they are able to accomplish. Some stepped up with only a single week of practice. The students brought each character to life with their creative genius and the whole play was absolutely hilarious! We had so much fun preparing and performing, and we hope that everyone enjoyed it!” -Rayleen Luis, Drama Club Sponsor

Cast of Characters: Carol Danes: Georgia Blaze Avery Stern: Ethan Jones Roger: Jonathan Mathis Melissa: Jordan Rossell Coach: Ethan Jones Josie: Kerry Straw Joe: Aidan Steyer Maria McConville Anna Perri Chumley Martin: Luke Noffsinger Catherine (Cat): Gabby McDowell Meg McCrossen: Anna Watson Charlize Finegold: Jaden Rossell Agent: Kaiden Byrom Josh: Jameson Byrom Edna: Peyton Baggott Sue Toff: Hannah Parker Uma Henson: Anna Watson Yasmine: Ali Churchwell Taggart: Hendley Culpepper Vance Hendrickson: Jaiden McDowell Amy: Jordan Rossell Zeph: Kaiden Byrom Q: Gabby McDowell Police Officer: Luke Noffsinger Wendy Offerman: Mary Lawson Norton

Lighting/Sound Engineers: Gavin Justice and Trey Matthews Backstage: Abby Ledlow, Grace McIntosh, and Shamaiah Thomas

10 / MACON EAST SPRING 2021 NEWSLETTER / 10 Mt acon Eas Senior Receives Pike Will Desmarais Receives Road Ladies Auxiliary Community Good Citizen Award S ervice AwARD Macon East senior, Will Desmarais was selected as a 2021 Macon East Academy recipient of the Daughters of the American Revolution senior, Tanner Moore Good Citizen Award. The DAR Good Citizens Award recently received the and Scholarship Contest, created in 1934, is intended to Pike Road Ladies encourage and reward the qualities of good citizenship. This Auxiliary Community award recognizes and rewards individuals who possess the Service Award. He qualities of dependability, service, leadership, and patriotism is the son of Scott in their homes, schools, and communities. These students are and Leigh Ann selected by their teachers and peers because they demonstrate Moore of Cecil, these qualities to an outstanding degree. Will is an outstanding academic Alabama. He plans student, student manager for the football and baseball teams, and serves as an to attend Southern officer and member in several school organizations. Will was honored as one of Union College and later transfer to Auburn University and major in Wildlife Ecology/ the Montgomery area award recipients. Will plans to attend Auburn University Forestry. Working outdoors is his dream job. in the fall and major in Business Administration.

Tanner has been a very active volunteer with Macon East Academy and the surrounding A Night “Dripping in Luxury” community. He has volunteered with Macon East’s December to Remember Service The Macon East Junior / Senior Prom was held on April 17th at the RSA Plaza Terrace projects, annual deer hunt, annual turkey hunt in downtown Montgomery. An evening full of fun and dancing was enjoyed by everyone. for the softball team, Peggy Lanier Memorial The theme was Dripping in Luxury. Members of the Class of 2021 and their escorts and Pancake breakfast, served on the were recognized at the senior lead outs. Mrs. Karen Harris, prom sponsor, along with prom committee, Fellowship of Christian Mary Hunter Wright and the prom committee, planned an entertaining night for all Students and Camelot Club. In addition to the juniors, seniors , and their guests with entertainment from Top Tier Entertainment. school volunteerism, he has volunteered with As the evening ended, Mary Hunter Wright and Cole Carmack were crowned Prom Mission Montgomery, Montgomery Zoo Earth Day, Night to Shine, mission to trip Queen and King. to Florida to hurricane victims, and the Jingle Bell Run for Arthritis.

Tanner enjoys hunting, fishing, playing sports and church youth group activities. He is a member of the MEA football and baseball teams. Tanner is a member of the National Honor Society, Mu Alpha Theta Mathematics Honor Society and Spanish Honors Society. He serves as the Student Government Association treasurer and National Honor Society Secretary. Tanner is ranked fifth in his class.

Tanner’s reference described him as loyal and dedicated to school and the football and baseball teams. He is very passionate for being the best and his motivation to do whatever it takes to finish successfully is what leaves the biggest impression to those who know him. Tanner is described as a hard worker, shows great leadership, even-tempered, honest and all-around great student. Tanner is humble and never seeks praise for a job well done. As an athlete, he truly shines.

MACON EAST SPRING 2021 NEWSLETTER / 11 HONORS DAY

Macon East Academy held its annual upper school Honors Day assembly Friday, May 14 in the school gymnasium. Honors Day is a time to recognize and celebrate the accomplishments of the students in grades 7 – 12. The Class of 2021 were presented scholarship certificates, a variety of awards, and their honor chords to be worn at their graduation ceremony. The Senior class accumulated over $3.1 million dollars in scholarships this year. Macon East faculty and administration presented the following subject awards and special awards to the upper school students.

Specialty Awards:

Valedictorian: Will Desmarais Salutatorian: Jonathan Mathis Zeta Spence Memorial Award: Will Desmarais Jack Cox Service Award: Tanner Moore Hilda Story Teacher of the Year: Erica Hammonds Mandy Williams Christian Leadership Award: Jonathan Mathis and Hannah Parker National Honor Society Leadership Award: Colby Cox Mu Alpha Theta Leadership Award: Aidan Steyer Lance and Shield Leadership Award: Will Desmarais and Grace McIntosh Macon East Theater’s Award for Excellence: Jonathan Mathis AISA Headmaster’s Association Award: Will Desmarais Barbara Lindsey School Award: Mary Hunter Wright AISA Student Academic Team: Will Desmarais AISA Student Athlete Award: Aidan Steyer, Hannah Parker, and Tanner Moore Jimmy Hitchcock Nominees: Senior High: Tanner Moore and Georgia Blaze Junior High: Chase Lashlee and Katie Kitchens DAR Good Citizen Award: Will Desmarais National Leadership I Dare You Award: Jeremiah Carnegie Spirit of the Community Award: Tyler Hodges, Landon Mobley Senior School Community Service Award: Mary Lawson Norton, Mary Hunter Wright, Will Desmarais Heart of the Knight Global Service Award: Kirkland Pugh, Hannah Parker Aidan Steyer ALFA Youth Leadership Forum: Anna Watson, Matthew Kitchens, Wade Desmarais, Anna Glynn Lott, and Jack Jones Alabama Boys State Nominee: Luke Noffsinger Alabama Girls State Nominee: Rachel Major Alabama Lions High School Leadership Forum: McKinnon Hammonds and Ali Churchwell Hugh O’Brien Youth Leadership Award: Anna Glynn Lott and Jack Jones

12th Grade Subject Awards:

Senior High Art: Art IV: Grace McIntosh

Senior High Science: Environmental Science: Anna Perri Chumley Physics: Will Desmarais Anatomy: Kathryn Barker

Senior High Math: Algebra III: Mary Hunter Wright Calculus: Will Desmarais

Senior History: Government /Economics: Will Desmarais

Senior High English: AP: Will Desmarais Honors English: Jeremiah Carnegie

12 / MACON EAST SPRING 2021 NEWSLETTER / 12 Spelling Bee: Fourth Grade 1st Place: Myla Robledo Fifth Grade 1st Place: Eli Churchwell Sixth Grade 1st Place: Kaci Armstead Seventh Grade 1st Place: Elise Logan Eighth Grade 1st Place: Julia Mathis

Science Fair: 1st Place - Physical Science: Matthew Simpson 1st Place - Physical Science: Aubrey Smith 1st Place - Physical Science: Adam Fitch 1st Place Biological Science: Gracie Strickland 1st Place Biological Science: Makayla Purifoy 1st Place Biological Science: Eli Churchwell

7TH -11TH GRADE SUBJECT AWARDS:

Senior High Science: Life Science: Peyton Baggott Physical Science: Julia Mathis Biology: Kaiden Byrom Chemistry: Anna Glynn Lott Anatomy: Luke Noffsinger, Trey Matthews Spanish: Spanish I: Anna Glynn Lott Spanish II: Abby Vinson

Computer: Junior High Computer: Mary Taylor May Computer I: Colin Blount, Kacy Rutland Computer II: Ryan Russell, Kylee Smith

Speech: Hannah Kate Hodges

Senior High Math: Pre- Algebra: Jackson Todd Algebra I: Hunter Wren Geometry: Kaiden Byrom, Ethan Jones Algebra II: Anna Glynn Lott, Matthew Kitchens Pre- Calculus: Luke Noffsinger

Senior History: Junior High History: Kaiden Byrom U.S. History I: Jack Jones U.S. History II: Luke Noffsinger

Senior High English: Junior High English: Kaiden Byrom Senior High Honors English: Jack Jones AP English 11: Luke Noffsinger

Junior High Art: Cole Streetman Art I: Ethan Jones Art II: Alison Magda Art III: Luke Noffsinger

MACON EAST SPRING 2021 NEWSLETTER / 13 SPORTSAISA AA Softball State Runner-Up Four Macon East The Lady Knights softball team finished an amazing season as AISA 2A State Runner Academy Seniors Up. They completed their season with a record of 46 – 18. The Lady Knights entered the state tournament as the usual team to beat, making the finals for the ninth consecutive Recognized for year. They beat Lowndes 10-5 and Edgewood 9-7 in the semi-finals, thus advancing the wards Lady Knights to the winner’s bracket against Southern Academy. Southern rallied in AISA A its last at-bat in both games to defeat the Lady Knights 6-5 and 10-4 to win the Class AA title. Macon East Academy celebrated four of Breann Morrison, Kylee Smith and Taylor McKinney earned a spot on the All- our amazing seniors who were recently Tournament Team. The team is comprised of 7 seniors,Breann Morrison, Taylor recognized by the Alabama Independent McKinney, Devyn Debardelaben, Kadence Ward, Georgia Blaze, Alyssa Clark, and School Association. Senior, Will Hannah Parker. All seniors contributed this year with remarkable athletic ability and Desmarais was named to the AISA true leadership. Three Lady Knights have signed athletic scholarships to participate in 2020-2021 All-State Academic team. softball at the collegiate level. Taylor McKinney will be joining the mighty Trojans at Troy University. Devyn Debardelaben will be playing for Shelton State in Tuscaloosa, Seniors, Tanner Moore, Aidan Steyer Alabama. Recently, Kadence Ward signed with Florida State College at Jacksonville! and Hannah Parker were chosen as 2020 – 2021 Student-Athlete Winners. We are so proud to have them represent our school! We would also like to congratulate the parents and the teachers of these students who have invested so much time and effort to prepare them and help them earn this recognition.

Macon East well represented on the 2020-2021 Alabama Sports Writers Association All-State Basketball Teams.

The Alabama Sports Writers Association prep basketball committee chose three Macon East Academy student-athletes for the 2020-2021 squads. Chase Dumas was selected for the AISA Second Team All-State and Tyler Daniels was awarded Honorable Mention. Maddie Ross was awarded Honorable Mention on the AISA Will Tanner All-State girls team. Coach Glynn Lott was selected Coach of the Year for the AISA All-State boys team. We are extremely proud of our students and Coach Lott’s accomplishments.

Aidan Hannah Chase tyler maddie coach lott

14 / MACON EAST SPRING 2021 NEWSLETTER / 14 YOUNG KNIGHTS MAKE IT TO THE SEMI-FINALS

The Macon East baseball team finished their season with an impressive 27-11 record. They claimed an area title and had a season full of clutch hits and explosive offensive numbers. They were a young team with a tremendous amount of senior leadership. “This team is probably the most selfless team since I’ve been here, which has made it fun. I’m not saying it’s the most talented team, but it has the best attitude. It’s carried over to the field. They really don’t care how they get to first, they don’t care who’s playing where, they don’t care where they’re batting in the order, they just want to win games.” Coach Bob Pickett. The Knights lost a heart-breaking game 3 of the semi-final series to Autauga Academy that ended their season. The Knights averaged 8.9 runs per game were shut out for only three times this season. They won their own baseball tournament earlier this season.

Macon East’s clutch Colby Cox, will continue to play at the collegiate level for Huntingdon College. The Knights will graduate 7 seniors, Stone Yarnell, Tanner Moore, Colby Cox, Kirkland Pugh, Shelton Lee, Landon Mobley and team manager, Will Desmarais, but there is still plenty of talent to lead the team to another run for a state championship next year.

AISA ALL-STARS

Congratulations to seniors Alyssa Clark, Devyn Debardelaben, Taylor McKinney and Breann Morrison, who were chosen to represent Macon East Academy in the AISA Softball Senior National All-Star game to be held at the Lagoon Park Softball complex in Montgomery on Tuesday, June 8 at 7:00pm. Way to go Lady Alyssa devyn taylor breann Knights!

Colby Cox and Tanner Moore were selected as members of the Senior All-Star Team and Luke Noffsinger was selected as a member of the Junior All-Star Team. Congratulations to everyone for a successful and fun season! The All-Star baseball game will be played at Paterson Field in Montgomery on Monday, June 7th. Junior game will begin at 4:00 pm and Senior game will follow at 7:00 pm. colby tanner luke

SUPPORT YOUR KNIGHT ALL-STARS! Baseball - Paterson Field - Monday, June 7 at 4:00 pm Softball -Lagoon Park Softball Complex - Tuesday, June 8 at 7:00 pm

MACON EAST SPRING 2021 NEWSLETTER / 15 ANOTHER LADY KNIGHT SIGNS AN ATHLETIC SCHOLARSHIP!

MaconEast senior, Kadence Ward,signed to play softball with Florida State College at Jacksonville next season.Kadence has been a starter for the Lady Knights program for the past threeyears. She was one of the Lady Knights’best utility players. Kadence finishedher senior year with a batting average of .293, with 13 doubles and 40hits. Kadence was named to the 2018 AISAAll-Tournament team and a 2019 All-Metro player. Kadence has been a tremendous asset to theLady Knights softball program and we wish her the best at the collegiatelevel!

Parents, Tony and Amanda Ward with sister Zola Grace. Sydney Phelps, Anna Glynn Lott, Georgia Blaze, Ryan Russell, Alyssa Clark, Breann Morrison, Kylee Smith, Austin Gorman, Lathan Johnson, Abby Vinson, Anna Dickson Beck and Kaiden Byrom.

CENTRAL ALABAMA SCOREBOARD THE 2021 SUPER SOFTBALL 22 LIST The SUPER 22 focuses on what accomplishments have been made on the diamond and is the most exhaustive list of the best softball players in central Alabama. C ongraTULATIONS Lady Knights - you are awesome!

The best and brightest:

#2 OVERALL. Taylor McKinney – Senior Infield/Pitcher | Troy University COACH SPEAK (Glynn Lott): “Taylor is the best pure athlete I have ever had the pleasure to coach. Her knowledge of the game and work ethic is second to none and is a leader by example for her team.” SUMMER WORKOUTS The You Dropped the Bomb on Me List FOR HIGH SCHOOL Brings power to the plate and can the ball a ton. They step in the box and swing for the fences. STUDENT-ATHLETES 1. Taylor McKinney - 18 home runs this season

The Lisa Hernandez List of Top Hitters Coaches crack a smile and breathe a sigh of relief because they know when these B egin Monday, June 7th student-athletes step into the box, in a sport based on failure, the odds are ever in their favor. In crafting this list – they looked at the batting average / the on-base percentage / slugging percentages and ranked them based on those numbers. M onday, tuesday & 1. Taylor McKinney – .604 .697 1.248 19. Devyn Debardelaben – .423 .563 .677 thursday

The Driving Force List of Run Producers The ability to reach base and steal base are key elements to an offense’s success. But you need those big sticks that are going to barrel up a pitch and drive some run homes. boys: 7:00 am 4. Devyn Debardelaben – 52 RBIs 5. Taylor McKinney – 47 RBIs girls: 8:00 am 11. BreAnn Morrison – 35 RBIs

16 / MACON EAST SPRING 2021 NEWSLETTER / 16 On Thursday, May 20, the Macon East Gymnasium was filled with spectacular coaches and athletes to celebrate and honor each teams accomplishments. Varsity and ALL SPORTS junior varsity cheerleaders, football, volleyball, basketball, baseball and softball players gathered together for a meal and recognition certificates. Georgia Blaze was awarded BANQUET the Knights of the Round Table award. We are incredibly blessed to have our student- athletes challenged to reach beyond their potential.

BOYS BASKETBALL RECEIVE RINGS!

The AISA AA State Boys Basketball Champions received their state champion rings at the All Sports Banquet. The team experienced a coaching change mid- season and were determined to be diligent and claim the state title. These rings are proof that their grit and hard work paid off.

Front row: Maurice Poole. Middle Row: Dalton Nickles, Tanner Surles, Stone Yarnell, Carlos Carter, Chase Dumas and Jeremiah Carnegie. Back row: Barrett Spaeth, Gunner Justice, Joshwa Browder, Eric Lawson, Tyler Daniels, Garrison Miller and Aidan Steyer.

MACON EAST SPRING 2021 NEWSLETTER / 17 $500 FAMILY REFERRALS

Do you know a family that is interested in attending Macon East? Refer potential students by completing the Macon East Academy Family Referral Form. Once the student is accepted, you will receive a credit to your account! Contact Jill Taylor for more information.

SUMMER OFFICE HOURS Tuesday - Thursday 8:00 am - 2:00 pm

18 / MACON EAST SPRING 2021 NEWSLETTER / 18