2002-03 News Archives

2001-02 News Archives

Commencement Ceremony Closes 2002-03 Year
The 97th commencement at GPS followed tradition as expected, and a beautiful morning sun shone down on the Smith Courtyard ceremony.  Awards were presented, a valedictory address and a senior talk given, and diplomas conferred on 112 members of the 2003 senior class. In addition to the recognition of the Student Council president Ali Mena, Honor Council president and co-salutatorian Chandni Kalaria, and co-salutatorian Kristen Schmits, senior class members Maggie LaRochelle, Lauren Smith, Whitney Webb, Rachel Sherbak, Anne Rushing, and Lisa Swafford received awards for their character, integrity, enthusiasm, and outstanding support of the school. A newly-established award for elite athletic performance, the Headmaster's Award, was given to Michal Howick, a four-year varsity cheerleader and recipient of a cheerleading scholarship at the University of Tennessee, Knoxville.  Valedictorian Rebecca Taylor and senior representative Trisha Shah spoke to the audience of family, friends, and faculty. (Valedictory address)
The seniors will attend 52 colleges in 22 states and were offered a record-breaking $3.1 million in merit, talent, or athletic-based scholarships. (Where O Where's) (5/30)

There was time to share some final senior moments before walking in the 97th commencement exercises. 

Third Year of Impressive Results in Physics Bowl
The previous two years saw GPS seniors score the top region prize in the National Physics Bowl. Against always stiff competition from Oak Ridge, GPS settled for a second place this year, as a school and in individual results.  Rebecca Taylor and Amanda Youell tied for second in the four-state region, and results by Angela Ford and Kate Shuster cemented the team's second-place finish. The two top scorers from GPS received college scholarship funds. "The previous two years, GPS won first place and Oak Ridge was second," said Dennis Conner, the AP Physics teacher. "We thought we should let them win once." (5/26)

Record-Breaking Win for Freshman at State Meet
Although the softball team lost to St. Benedict, 2-0, at the state championships, the day was a record-setting one for a few members of the GPS track team.  Freshman MeLyn Thompson broke a GPS school record and won her second state championship with a 39-3 toss in the shot put competition.  MeLyn's first state title came earlier in the discus where she led a sweep of the top three spots by GPS Bruisers.  Coming in second and third were Allyson Heard and Stephanie Baker. Taylor Wilson, finishing 7th in the 1600, also broke a GPS record with a 5:20.68 time. Other finishes were Taylor Wilson, 6th in the 3200; Taylor Parkes, 4th in the 100 dash and 2nd in the 300 hurdles; Laura Dickerson, 6th in the shot put; Laura Paynter, 5th in the long jump and 7th in the triple jump; and Caitlin Cook, 8th in the pole vault. (5/23)

State discus winners of the top three spots were GPS Bruisers, shown here after the medal ceremony.

Bucketsful of Trophies to Middle School Math
Keeping pace with the awards won by GPS Upper School students at a recent math competition has been easy for six Middle School students.  In a Chattanooga Area Math Teachers Association end-of-year contest attended by 11 other private and public schools, GPS students swept all first place awards, two of the three second place wins, and a third place trophy.  In other words, each of the six girls who competed finished in the top three in her grade level. Congratulations to sixth graders Kristi Walter and Chelsey Smith; seventh graders Kristin Early and Leslie Moore; and eighth graders Lauren Barth and Abby Hill. (5/19)

Sixth, seventh, and eighth grade competitors in the CAMTA math contest show off the latest hardware won by GPS math students.

Cum Laude Inductions
One of the more solemn and satisfying assemblies of the school year is the annual Cum Laude Induction ceremonies in which faculty introduce the top students in the senior class and extol their industriousness, their individuality, their passions, and their character. The annual event on the last day of classes for seniors was especially sentimental last Friday.  Welcome to Cum Laude members Mae Mae Barnes, Whitney Blocker, Dannelly Brown, Angela Ford, Lisa Galik, Holly Howell, Chandni Kalaria, Krista Ross, Kristen Schmits, Caroline Snow, Eleanor Steele, Rebecca Taylor, Taylor Wilson, and Amanda Youell. (5/19)

Saving the Best for Last
The GPS track team won their first meet of the season on Thursday...it was the Region championships. Coach Jeff Gaither has preached since February how everything was preparation for the region tournament, and the team members took him seriously, winning handily over favored Baylor. An 18 point lead after the field events, with wins in the shot put, triple jump, and 3200m run, set the stage for first place finishes in the 100 hurdles and 300 hurdles and second place finishes in the 100 hurdles, 100m, 1600m, and 1600 relay. Two highlights would have to be the 300 hurdles, run for the first time in her life and in region record-setting time by Taylor Parkes, and the 1600 relay of Emily Lilley, Shelley Schmissrauter, Lauren Waters, and Sarah Young.  The relay team ran 7 seconds faster that their best time in qualifying for the state tournament in Memphis. (5/16)

Winning the region track championship calls for a team picture.  Over a dozen members of the team qualified for the state championship next weekend in Memphis.

We Change Tires, Too
Contrary to what some local radio disc jockeys believe, GPS girls DO know how to change tires. Students in Bryant Haynes' physics classes spent the past few class periods learning what's under the hood of a car and how to change a flat tire. They even dismantled a General Motors V-6 engine, but there is no word on whether they put it back together again. (5/14)

Some seniors are obviously proud of their new knowledge. Tire changing is one of the last units in a physics curriculum taught by Bryant Haynes.  Who says life skills aren't taught in high school? (more pictures)

Inaugural "Boys of GPS" Golf Classic
The Lookout Mountain Golf Club was the site for a post-Mothers' Day golf tournament honoring the "Girls of GPS."  Twenty-three four-man teams entered the event, honoring the mother, sister, daughter, or wife that attends GPS or is an alumna of the school.  One team represented the girls of GPS, as golf coach Georgia McCravey played with senior Cassie Moss, junior Holden Miller, and freshman Bailey Hixon. (5/13)

Members of the GPS golf team represented the "Girls of GPS" at the inaugural GPS Golf Classic.  Ninety-two men played in the select drive format, honoring their wives, mothers, daughters, and sisters who are students or alumnae of the school. (Photo by Liz Klinefelter)

Crew Future Looks Bright
With three boats qualifying for the National Regatta, GPS led the Southeastern Regional high school rowing championships, winning the combined trophy with McCallie for the 4th year in a row. Jessica White and Darcy Knowles took second in the women's double. Taking first place in the quad were Sheri Baucom, Whitney Bell, Lauren Harvey, and Charlotte Beene.  Winning the lightweight eight were Katie Watson, Sarah Coulter, Elizabeth Harbin, Beth Yetter, Julie Pollard, Erin Felton, Anne Campeau, Maryn Gardner, and Melanie Limerick.
Other wins, but non-qualifiers for the national's were the varsity B boat and the Novice A boat, which has won every event this year, fall and spring. Good luck in Cincinnati! (5/12)

Juniors Sweep Law Day Contest Again
For the second year in a row, three GPS students have captured the top spots in the Chattanooga Bar Association Law Day essay contest.  At the annual luncheon, Megan Galbreth read her first place essay aloud to judges, lawyers, special guests, and family members. Megan, who also won in her freshman year, receives a $2,000 scholarship and $200 in savings bonds. Second and third place recognition and savings bonds went to Elizabeth Campbell and Katherine Crews. This year marks the fifth year that a GPS entry has been judged the most well-written essay. (5/7)
Megan's Winning Essay

The GPS juniors who were named winners in the Chattanooga Bar Association Law Day essay contest met with their English teachers before attending the annual luncheon.

May Day 2003..."Broadway"
"The show must go on" is a familiar phrase on Broadway, and the same can be said for Wednesday's traditional GPS May Day pageant. The campus-wide celebration began with a festival on the patio showcasing the talents of various orchestra groups and the 6th grade dancers. At 2 o'clock, 112 seniors were presented to the assembled crowd of family and friends.  May Queen Vivian Parham; Maid of Honor Eleanor Steele; and the court of Chandni Kalaria, Maggie LaRochelle, Lauren Smith, and Amanda Youell joined their classmates in a promenade on the Smith Courtyard lawn.  Dances to Broadway musical numbers, the winding of the May Pole, and the singing of the alma mater concluded the event. (4/30)

Two girls who were typical of the color and joy shared each year by the seniors in GPS' traditional May Day pageant await their turn to be presented. Enjoy more May Day pictures.

Start Planning for 2003-04
For those families who need to start making plans for summer vacations or next year's spring break, or for those juniors who want to know the exact dates for exams, May Day and Commencement in their senior year, the following link will provide the schedule for the next school year. 2003-04 Calendar

Three-Year Champions of TVAC Track
Medals were in as much abundance as smiles when the GPS Middle School track team won the TVAC league trophy for the third consecutive year.  GPS took first place in every running event except the 1600m and had lots of wins in the field events as well. One coach said Taylor Parkes may have needed a U-Haul to carry home all of her medals...most of which were gold. The win means that the 8th grade team members have never lost a TVAC championship. (5/2)

Members of the GPS Middle School track team and their coaches are all smiles after winning the TVAC track championships for the third consecutive year.

On to the State and Nationals
Over 40 students are representing GPS in track and softball at the State Tournament in Memphis this week and at the National Regatta in June. Competition begins Tuesday with a match up against Briarcrest for softball Bruisers Codee Bayless, Caitlin Barringer, Whitney Bell, Emily Boydston, Andi Broom, Carrie Broome, Haley Brown, Sarah Castleman, Katie Clingan, Kate Commander, Hillary Hammond, Lillian Hammond, LeAndrea Johnson, Erin Swartz, Blaes Schmissrauter, and Holly Templeton.
Qualifying for the state track meet with a Region win last week are Stephanie Baker, Caitlin Cook, Laura Dickerson, Allyson Heard, Emily Lilley, Vivian Parham, Taylor Parkes, Laura Paynter, Shelley Schmissrauter, Kendall Stokes, MeLyn Thompson, Carolyn Vineyard, Lauren Waters, Taylor Wilson, and Sarah Young.
The girls who will represent GPS at the National Regatta in Cincinnati, Ohio, June 7-8, are Jessica White/Darcy Knowles, double; Sheri Baucom/Whitney Bell/Lauren Harvey/Charlotte Beene, quad; and Katie Watson/Sarah Coulter/Elizabeth Harbin/Beth Yetter/Julie Pollard/Erin Felton/Anne Campeau/Maryn Gardner/Melanie Limerick, lightweight eight.(5/20)

GPS qualifiers in softball, track, and rowing will be representing the school at the Tennessee State Championships and the National Regatta.

Rain Doesn't Dampen Softball Regions
In spite of the rain that has created a retention pond on the GPS lower field athletic facilities, softball coach Susan Crownover says the region tournament will go on at Warner Park beginning Tuesday.  A change of venue didn't hurt the GPS Bruisers as they defeated Baylor Saturday, 3-1.  Hillary Hammond went 2-3, batting in all runs in two-out situations. A contest against Notre Dame is set for Monday at 4:30 at Warner Park as well.   (5/9)

It's a little too late to start putting a tarp over the infield, or the outfield, or the backstop, or the bleachers. Softball will go on, weather permitting, at Warner Park.

Fannie Flagg at GPS
Back in the fall, the student body at GPS overwhelmingly chose "Fried Green Tomatoes" as the book they hoped the city would adopt for "A Tale for One City," the city-wide reading initiative. Discussions of the book have taken place in classrooms, hallways, and at a special "Fried Green Tomatoes" dinner with parents and faculty. The campus-wide enthusiasm for the book has resulted in the school being honored with a visit from the author, Fannie Flagg.  Today in a school assembly, Ms. Flagg shared stories  from her childhood and her perspective on writing the tale that Chattanooga chose to read. (5/5)

Author Fannie Flagg greeted students and friends of GPS after speaking to the student body at a morning assembly.

Alumnae Weekend 2003 - A Homecoming
With the spirit of a homecoming festival, Alumnae Weekend for Girls Preparatory School takes place this weekend, starting with the induction of the charter members into the GPS Athletic Hall of Fame and the announcement of distinguished graduates at the Alumnae Recognition Luncheon.
The Distinguished Alumna of GPS is Rebecca Evans Soileau '62, and recipients of the Margaret Rawlings Lupton Service Award are Lucile Reisman Rosenbaum '31, Kay Kendall '62, and Claudia Swafford Haltom '73.
Five women are honored for outstanding accomplishments in, and contributions to, GPS athletics: Eula Lea Jarnagin, Dr. Janet Parks, Teresa Lawrence Phillips, Peggy Evans Thomas, and Peggy Patten Winningham. Lawrence made news this week with her listing in Sports Illustrated's "101 Most Influential Minorities in Sports." (5/2)

Teresa Lawrence Phillips was proud to be inducted as a charter member of the GPS Athletic Hall of Fame with her fellow inductee and former teacher Peggy Evans Thomas.  Her education at GPS, Phillips said, was, like the Master Card commercial, "priceless."

Former Namibia Diplomat Visits
Marshall and Amye McCallie visited with 6th grade Global Cultures classes and gave the students a connection to Namibia that they couldn't find in a textbook.  Mr. McCallie, an officer in the foreign service and three-year Ambassador to Namibia, drew parallels between the government organization in the United States and the nascent African country, explaining how he worked with their officials. Mrs. McCallie explained cultural differences and displayed typical toys, baskets, and pottery. Faculty member Bryant Haynes, who with his wife served as missionaries in Namibia, also shared personal memories and details of the country's geography and distinct culture with students. (5/1)

Former diplomat and Chattanooga native Marshall McCallie spoke to sixth grade classes about his experiences in the African country of Namibia.

Literary Honorary
Each year a number of juniors are selected to participate in Areopagus, the senior literary group that reads and discusses a variety of genre in the extracurricular honorary organization.  Chosen as members for 2003-04 are Karen Anderson, Whitney Bell, Melissa Brown, Elizabeth Campbell, K.O. Campbell, Sarah Coulter, Katherine Crews, Laura Deakins, Laura Galbraith, Megan Galbreth, Ginny Harr, Betsy Hoback, Amy Killian, Katie Morgan, Natasha Panda, Alice Revenig, Taylor Warren, and Sydney Woods. (4/29)

Two Seniors Picked to Cheer at Division I Schools
Seniors Michal Howick and Courtney Spahn, with six years of GPS/McCallie cheerleading experience between them, have competed against some of the best and were chosen recently to join the varsity squads at University of Tennessee, Knoxville, and University of Mississippi next fall. Both will receive scholarships for cheering at home and away football games and home basketball games in addition to competing in national cheerleading contests.
Michal, who says that the tryouts were "similar to what we've done at GPS," will be one of 12 girls on the Big Orange squad.  Courtney is one of only two new cheerleaders for Ole Miss. Leslie Templeton '02, is on the varsity squad at Clemson. (4/28)

Crew Champions Win Carney Cup
The Carney Cup belongs to GPS after the annual rowing competition against Baylor last Friday on the Tennessee River. Two boat lengths was the margin of victory for the GPS varsity team which captured the cup. GPS boats were first and second in varsity women's eight, novice women's eight, novice women's four, and junior varsity women's eight.  The trophy is named for Marion Carney, mother of three GPS graduates and wife of Terry Carney, who was instrumental in starting a crew program at GPS in the early 90's.  The race, which began 2,000 meters upriver from Coolidge Park and ended at the Walnut Street Bridge, was visible to crowds along the river from Heritage Landing to the Chattanooga Little Theater.
In the Tennessee River Regatta on Saturday, GPS boats placed first  in novice eight, varsity women's quad, and varsity women's eight against competition from Westminster, Chattanooga Junior Rowing, and the Alabama City Rockets. (4/22)

Crew team claims Carney Cup after decisive wins over Baylor on the Tennessee River.

Smith Courtyard Dedicated
The sweep of green grass that is a playground for middle schoolers and the venue for traditional May Day pageants has been formally dedicated to Frances Street Smith '48 and the women of her family as the GPS Smith Courtyard.  Mrs. Smith's daughter, Sally Smith Crimmins '76; her daughter-in-law, Chris Benz Smith '72; and her granddaughters, Jenny '97 and Alice Smith '03, have all been enthusiastic and involved members of the GPS community.  The extended family have also been longtime supporters of the school. (4/18)

The GPS women from the family of Frances Street Smith were honored with the dedication of the Smith Courtyard.

Woods, Killian Chosen to Lead 2003-04 Year
Juniors Amy Killian and Sydney Woods will lead the GPS student body in 2003-04 as president of the Honor Council and Student Council, respectively.  Ann Royal was chosen as president of next year's senior class, and Emily Nagle was elected chairman of Robin Hood, the school's week-long fundraiser for community organizations.   Statements by those students running for office and results of all student elections are posted on the Student Council's election web site as they occur. (4/17)

Another Senior Signs Letter of Intent
Pitcher Holly Templeton has signed a letter of intent to play for UT-Martin next year.  The Skyhawks of UT-Martin are currently in the #1 position in the Ohio Valley Conference, and Templeton is excited about the opportunity to contribute next year.  A four-year varsity player at GPS, Holly was surrounded by her parents, Treena Templeton and Jodie Templeton, GPS Athletic Director Stacey Hill, and coach Susan Crownover at the event. (4/17)

Happy family members and coaches gathered to watch Holly Templeton sign a letter of intent to play softball at UT-Martin.

GPS Represented in Country Music Marathon
Three GPS teachers are walking a little slower, stretching their calves, and recovering from their latest athletic accomplishments.  Physical education teacher and coach Kim Leffew, Latin teacher Melanie Northcutt, and math teacher Brandy Campbell ran in the half-marathon of the Country Music Marathon in Nashville on Saturday, and each finished under her goal time. The popular marathon, which begins at Centennial Park and ends at the Titan's Coliseum, features country music bands along the course. (4/28)

Celebrating the Newest Bruisers
A "Bruiser Celebration for New Students" was held last week for all
entering students for the 2003-04 school year.  The rising sixth through eleventh graders and their family members were hosted by the Awesome Admissions Student Association, got a look and some advice about the seasonal uniforms, danced, enjoyed lemonade and snacks, and had their pictures made for next year's Facebook. 
In addition to a "style show" of the GPS summer and winter uniforms, team uniforms for aspiring athletes in all sports were also modeled in a "Do's and Don'ts" format.
New students and their parents also had an opportunity to visit the GPS bookstore They browsed and bought water bottles, belts and buckles for their GPS uniform, coffee mugs, sweatshirts, pencils, notebooks, and picture frames.  Every girl also received her own GPS frisbee for those upcoming ultimate frisbee games with McCallie boys. (4/25)












The Work Goes On|
Joined by students from McCallie School, volunteers from the GPS senior class have been busy on Saturdays working in shifts to finish the Habitat house. Neither cold not rain nor mud seems to keep these novice builders from wielding hammers and paint brushes. Co-sponsoring the construction of a Habitat house has become an annual coordinate event, and contributions from family and friends of GPS will pay for 50% of the cost. Dedication of the house is set for May 29.  (3/17)

They may be novice construction workers, but the effort and enthusiasm that has been shown by the seniors of GPS and McCallie will be much appreciated by a Habitat family on Dedication Day in May. (more pictures)

2003 May Queen and Court Presented
In keeping with a time honored tradition, GPS seniors nominated six girls who would represent their class at traditional May Day ceremonies in the spring.  Chandni Kalaria, Maggie LaRochelle, Vivian Parham, Lauren Smith, Eleanor Steele, and Amanda Youell were presented to the student body as members of the court, girls who in the highest sense embody the ideals of GPS. Vivian Parham was elected May Queen by the students, and Eleanor Steele was named Maid of Honor. (1/31)

The six members of the 2003 May Court were chosen by their senior class.  The entire GPS student body elected  the May Queen and  her Maid of Honor.  Other court members will serve as trainbearers, a scepter bearer, and a crown bearer. (photo by Diane Moore)

Softball Defeats Baylor, Leads Region
Fresh from signing with UT-Martin, Holly Templeton pitched a one-hitter in Wednesday's game against Baylor, crediting team intensity for the 2-0 win. The two unearned runs off Baylor errors scored LeAndrea Johnson on a Kate Commander hit and Lillian Hammond on a Johnson single.  The Bruisers are 6-0 in region competition. (4/24)

Senior Art on Exhibit at AVA
Nine GPS seniors and eleven pieces of their art have been selected for "Senior Showcase," a juried show at the Association for Visual Arts. Laura Cleary received "Best Use of Medium, Painting," and Rachel Sherbak received "Best Use of Medium, Drawing."  Katelyn Littlejohn had three pieces selected for the show and received an Honorable Mention.  Other GPS seniors with work represented are Laura Rogers, Victoria Holt, Molly Ziebell, Holly Templeton, Whitney Blocker, and Katie Estes. Their work is on display until week's end at the AVA's Frazier Avenue gallery. GPS had more student art selected for the show than any other school. (4/24)

Countdown to May Day
With traditional May Day festivities less than a week away, the Menehunees, a Middle School honorary, begin selling the colorful t-shirts on Friday to seniors only.  The theme for the pageant, "Broadway," is represented on the shirt's front and back in two different designs created by seniors Anne Rushing and Ashley Rutledge. On April 28-30, the t-shirts will be available to the student body in the GPS rotunda and from the Menehunee booth on May Day. (4/24)

A colorful Broadway-inspired design adorns the back of the 2003 May Day t-shirt which will be sold beginning Friday as the countdown to next Wednesday's May Day begins.

Promising Performances Despite Track Loss
A new school record and several winning performances by the GPS track team weren't enough to pull out a win in yesterday's meet against Baylor.  Freshman MeLyn Thompson set a new school record in the shot put, Allyson Heard and Stephanie Baker finished one and two in the discus, and Laura Paynter won the long jump and triple jump in field competition.  Rebecca Taylor took first in the 3200, and Kendall Stokes won the 100 hurdles.  According to coach Jeff Gaither, others had "season-best performances" and are "on course" for the important region competition in mid-May. (4/17)

The hurdles was one event in the track competition where GPS shined in a recent dual meet.

Former Grad Continues Softball Success
Jackie McClain, '00, has been named one of 25 finalists for the 2003 USA Softball Collegiate Player of the Year Award given by the Amateur Softball Association.  A junior at Alabama, Jackie has twice been SEC player of the Week this season and ranks in the top five of seven SEC offensive categories.  The Crimson Tide, with Jackie's help, is first place in the Southeastern Conference.  GPS won two state championships in softball when Jackie was a Bruiser. (4/16)

Killian Elected Honor Council President
Junior Amy Killian has been elected by the student body to serve as President of the GPS Honor Council for the 2003-04 school year.  The rising senior has previously served on the council as a class representative.  The GPS Honor System is one of the school's most valued traditions and sets an atmosphere of trust in the classroom and throughout the campus. (4/15)

Thirteen Inducted into NHS
One of the highest honors at GPS is being selected for the National Honor Society. Honored for their leadership, scholarship, service, and character were Mary Howard Ade, Laura Breen, Katy Bridger, K.O. Campbell, Karianne Chung, Ginny Harr, Stephanie Hays, Allyson Heard, Natasha Panda, Julie Pollard, Ann Royal, Rashida Thompson, and Keelee Wrenn. (4/11)

What a Great Place to Work
Teacher Appreciation Week, honoring GPS faculty and staff members, is always a week of surprises, good food, and generous gifts from parents of GPS students.  This year the week began with a delicious lunch and a bounty of desserts, followed by Tuesday's "What's for Dinner" surprise of prepared meals of chicken divan casseroles and yummy homemade rolls. Wednesday got off to a great start with a cornucopia of breakfast delights.  Thursday's theme, "Key to Your Success" and Friday's "Let's Go to the Movies" coupons were "given with gratitude by GPS students and parents" and sponsored by the GPS Parent Council. (4/9)

These moms hosted Wednesday's breakfast of fresh fruit and homemade items and baked goods for faculty and staff at GPS during Teacher Appreciation Week.

Safety First
Dr. James Kaufmann, director of the Laboratory Safety Institute in Massachusetts, is the featured presenter today for representatives from GPS and area schools interested in improving environmental safety on their campuses. Teachers and administrators from Baylor, Boyd Buchanan, Episcopal School of Knoxville, Hixson, and Lutheran School will attend workshops at the GPS Visions Leadership Center dealing with accidents, chemical storage, biological and animal hazards, electrical safety, eye and face safety, and emergency planning. (4/8)

April Fools' Surprise
Pranks, hijinks, and duplicity mark April Fools' Day every year.  Nothing surprised the students more this year, however, than the sight of their teachers dressed up like them!  GPS uniforms, complete with "illegal" flannel pants, missing bows or belts, or untucked shirts were the attire of choice for most of the middle school and some brave upper school faculty and staff.  Some teachers were even reported to have received demerits from students for their unacceptable dress. (4/1)

GPS summer and winter uniforms were the clothing of choice as the faculty pulled an April Fools' joke on the student body Tuesday.

Middle School Honor Society
In a tradition-laden ceremony, thirteen middle school girls were recently welcomed into membership of the Duffy Jarnagin chapter of the National Junior Honor Society.  Chosen on qualities of scholarship, leadership, service, and character were 8th graders Ashley Babb, Kathleen Bires, Marybeth Campeau, Anna Conn, Amber Royal, and Cami Steger.  Seventh grade inductees were Audrey Barth, Cailyn Bautista, Erin Dunn, Kirstin Early, Kathleen Harrison, Margaret Matlock, and Leslie Moore. (3/12)

This group of 13 are the newest members of the National Junior Honor Society at GPS.

Grabbing the Gold (or Silver) Ring
Sometimes they're delivered by helicopters, motorcycles, sky divers, or the Mayfield dairy truck, but this year's senior rings were distributed to GPS juniors in a somewhat less flamboyant manner. During a recent midday outing on the Riverboat docked at Coolidge Park, the juniors received their rings, enjoyed lunch, and shared the tradition of asking their classmates, faculty, and friends to turn the new rings on their fingers. The class of '04 will have their rings "turned" 103 times, saving the last turn for a special someone. (3/11)

Two happy juniors proudly show off their latest jewelry, the traditional GPS senior ring, which features a delicate lattice border for the bold onyx topped with the traditional crest.  Many alumnae still wear theirs proudly. (more pictures)

Une Bonne Journée
Sunshine, games, French food, and a theatrical production were the highlights of a recent "cultural immersion" day for 20 middle school French students from GPS and McCallie.  After a decidedly French menu featuring quiche, croque monsieurs, and fondue au chocolat, the students walked to the Chattanooga Theatre Centre for a showing of "The Little Prince."  Eighth grader Marshall Bright was stage manager for the local youth production. (3/10)

Checkmate
Three teams of GPS girls spent a recent Saturday in Cleveland at the Tennessee Scholastic Chess Team Tournament for Region 2.  Each team played one member short, forfeiting games to opponents with four players, but ended the day-long event proud of their progress and participation.  The Upper School team, Anne Rushing, Rachel Rowell, and Katie Johnson, took 5th place in the high school division. Sixth graders Filza Kaukab, Emily Ledbetter, and Logan Davis played in the elementary division and ended up in 18th place.  The junior high team, consisting of 7th graders Kirstin Early, Amelia Morgan, and Sally Morrow, ended competition in 14th place. (3/10)

Outnumbered by the boys who played in the recent Tennessee Scholastic Chess Tournament, the GPS Upper School team still finished 5th in the Region 2 competition.

Committee Named for May Day Planning
Although there are always two super-organized faculty members who serve as the coordinators of the May Day festivities, much of the work is done by an honored group of seniors named to the May Day committee. Faculty organizers Cathie Kasch, Susie Crouch and Lisa Yates will be working this spring with chairman Rachel Sherbak; secretary Mae Mae Barnes; Ali Mena, Cassie Moss, Katie Kent, Mollie Johnston, Molly Ziebell, Alice Smith, Laura DuPre, Courtney Gray, Whitney Webb, and Mary Katherine Roark to ensure another sunny day and flawless celebration for the deserving senior class of 2003. (3/6)

These twelve seniors will be responsible for much of the behind-the-scenes planning for a festive May Day.

Finalists Announced for Merit Awards
Seven seniors were recently notified that they have met the requirements to advance to Finalist standing in the competition for Merit Scholarships awards through the National Merit program.  Lauren Fisher, Holly Howell, Darcy Knowles, Rachel Rowell, Anne Rushing, Kristen Schmits, and Rebecca Taylor are now being considered for one of the scholarship offers. (3/6)

DAD Day for Seventh Grade
Accompanied by advisors, not their fathers as the name suggests, seventh graders enjoyed the second annual "Downtown Adventure Day" on Tuesday.  With $20 to budget wisely, each girl sampled attractions and restaurant offerings in Chattanooga.  A sample itinerary might include breakfast at Panera, chocolate-making at Rembrandt's, the IMAX movie "Space Station," lunch at Lupi's, a behind-the-scenes tour of BellSouth Park, and a trip on the electric shuttle to IGNIS glassblowing.  The students, taking pictures throughout the day's events, will create a brochure after the adventure, using what they've learned in their English and technology classes.  (3/3)

Mrs. Hamilton's advisees started their DAD adventure with breakfast food at Rembrandt's and a game of bocce ball at Bluff View before taking the electric
shuttle to the Read House for a historic tour.

GPS Takes Gold at Science Olympiad
With 22 first and second place awards, a team of 7th-9th grade scientists from GPS swept the recent Science Olympiad Regional Contest at Chattanooga State.  They will represent the Southeast Region in state competition in April.  The GPS teams entered 19 different categories for judging, ranging from "Reach for the Stars" and "Bridge Building" to "Experimental Design" and "Science of Fitness."  The contest, which emphasizes problem-solving skills, demonstrated what we at GPS already know --  our hard-working girls are among the best in the state! (2/17)

Some of the first and second place award winners at the recent Science Olympiad are already making plans for similar success at the state competition in April.

Sharing Spring Break Stories
The advent of April begins the fourth quarter of the school year, and students are back in classes this week with tales of travel, beach trips, and other spring break work or vacation adventures.  Softball, track, and tennis teams have busy schedules ahead, the Habitat house (see story below) construction goes on, May Day practices begin for seniors on Tuesdays, and elections for next year's school and class offices are on the Student Council's agenda. How many weeks until AP exams? (3/30)  

Arts Gala Slated for Sunday
The GPS Fine Arts department presents a GPS Arts Gala on Sunday, March 16 at 2:30 p.m. in the Frierson Theater on campus.  Featured will be the GPS/McCallie Honors Orchestra in concert. Among the selections on the program are Grieg's Peer Gynt Suite, Tchaikovsky's Waltz from Sleeping Beauty, and selections from the musical "Oklahoma."  Over 100 pieces of student artwork will be on display in the theater lobby, and a gourmet reception will follow the concert.  Admission is free. (3/13)

Celebrating Women in Sports
Over 50 women on the faculty and staff of GPS were recognized at a recent assembly as part of a school-wide celebration of the 17th annual "National Girls & Women in Sports" day.  Before Title IX was enacted, 1 out of 27 girls in high school participated in athletics, and in most schools only two sports were offered.  Now, 1 out of 3 girls participates in athletics, and at GPS, 2 out of 3!  In addition to a recognition of the student athletes at GPS, the academic faculty mentors became athletic mentors for the day, carrying equipment for their respective sports (field hockey, lacrosse, skiing, water polo, skeet shooting, and horseback riding, in addition to the 12 sports offered at GPS). One staff member even remembers the day in high school that she was "allowed to run the mile." Athletic director Stacey Hill echoes the theme of the national event, "Succeed in Sports, Lead in Life," when he says, "We see firsthand the transforming effect of girls' participation in sports and physical fitness.  They have developed a greater sense of self-confidence and self-discipline." (2/5)

Just some of the women on the GPS faculty and staff who helped celebrate "National Girls & Women in Sports" day, showing off the equipment of the sports in which they have participated.

Winterim Days of Sojourns and Service
A college trip to Boston and a senior class trip to Disney World are two of the Winterim offerings enjoyed by students and chaperones.   Close to 400 students and many faculty members stayed in Chattanooga, however, and joined in community service opportunities at 15 area agencies and schools.  Washing puppies at the Humane Society, creating art with students at Battle Academy, reading at Eastside Elementary, and hammering at Habitat were some of the activities during the two-day event. (2/13)

Student volunteers at Battle Academy enjoyed the art work as much as or more than the students. One elementary school student seems to be wondering why the GPS girl is making such a mess!  More Pictures

Lunchtime Learning
Is there controversy over Title IX at an all-girls' school like GPS?  Tuesday's "Lunchtime Learning" engaged students in a discussion about the landmark legislation that bans sex discrimination in schools, whether academic or athletic. Faculty members Rachel McCallie and Mary Katherine Malone presented the positive results of Title IX, and athletic assistant Lara Sibold focused on the negative outcomes of the law. (3/4)

Basketball Surprises
A 58-49 upset of Notre Dame Tuesday night was a newsworthy story for this year's GPS Bruisers, but a 1976 graduate of GPS has also been making waves in the college world.  Teresa Lawrence Phillips, athletic director at Tennessee State University, will be making history Thursday night when she becomes the first female to coach an NCAA Division I men's basketball game.  Phillips suspended the interim coach after a bench-clearing brawl during the last game, and she decided to coach the Tigers herself for the one game of his suspension. (2/12)

GPS Graduate/Coach Teresa Phillips set to
make history.

Author Helps GPS Celebrate Black History Month
A'Lelia Bundles, author, journalist, and director of talent development at ABC News in Washington, D.C. and New York, spoke to the GPS student body Friday.  Her best-selling biography of her great-great grandmother, Madam C. J. Walker, was named a 2001 New York Times Notable Book.  While at GPS, Ms. Bundles spoke to a morning seventh grade class, tracing her relative's historic founding of a successful hair care company and the impact of her entrepreneurship on Black women across the United States.  She remarked on the coincidence of her great-great grandmother's business that sought to educate and teach financial independence to women at the same time that the three founders of GPS were taking similar steps with a new school for girls in Chattanooga. African-American women in the Chattanooga community, along with representatives from Girls, Inc., joined Ms. Bundles for lunch and heard her presentation to the student body in the afternoon. (2/7)

Author A'Lelia Bundles joined GPS 7th graders in a classroom discussion Friday morning and told them the story of her great-great grandmother, Madam C. J. Walker, a remarkable African American entrepreneur.

Creativity on Display
Middle School language students have been at their creative best, making replicas of the Roman Coliseum and the Eiffel Tower and fashioning their own Spanish crafts.  The efforts of the French, Spanish, and Latin students in 7th and 8th grade are on display in the Caldwell Commons, where a reception tonight for students and their parents will feature Mardi Gras cake, punch, and awards for the best projects. (2/25)

A replica of the Eiffel Tower, a hot-air balloon of the Montgolfier brothers, and France's National Stadium are some of the French projects completed by the 7th and 8th grade students.  Some lucky students researched recipes and made typical French foods like crème brûlée, while others' projects tell the story of Joan of Arc.

Two Evenings of Dance
Terpsichord Contemporary Dance Company presented "Acceleration: An Evening of Dance" on both Friday and Saturday nights in the GPS Frierson Theatre. The program, featuring both student and guest choreography, was the final concert appearance for senior members of the respected modern dance company, the oldest in Tennessee.  Senior members are Alice Smith, president; Maggie LaRochelle, vice president; Mary Martha Bullard, Laura DuPre, Courtney Gray, Meredith Hobbs, Brennan McMahon, Margaret Mickles, Eleanor Steele, McLean Stohler, Katie Vandergriff, and Anna Young.  Terpsichord is directed by Cathie Ault Kasch, a GPS and Terpsichord alumna. (2/27)

Guest Artist From Aix-en-Provence
American-born artist Jill Steenhuis visited art classes at GPS today and talked about the "moments of grace" that she has experienced as an artist living in France.  With a slide show of Paul Cézanne's work, Steenhuis related the Post Impressionist's progression as a painter and shared her passion for art with the students. The artist, her French husband, and their three sons live in France where she paints amidst the same landscapes where Cézanne and Van Gogh painted. She also teaches at the American University Center of Provence. Steenhuis' work is found in the collections of ABC newscaster Peter Jennings and New Jersey Nets player Dikembe Mutombo. (2/26)

Artist Jill Steenhuis, right, shared prints of her own work that illustrate the same techniques used by French Impressionists.

Kudos to Weekend Winners
In swimming, rowing, and tennis, GPS Bruisers had stellar weekend performances.  The GPS swim team, which finished fourth at the state meet, won the 200 freestyle relay in All-American consideration time, with swimmers Keelee Wrenn, Andrea Clifford, Lauren Rogers, and Emily Edmonson.  Jennifer Haddock took third place in diving.
Rowing coach Rachel McCallie traveled to Boston for the International Indoor Rowing Championships and placed ninth in the Masters Division with a 7:16 time.
Seventh grader Claire Bartlett competed in the 18-under girls division of the GPS Winter Tennis Open, defeating her opponent 6-2, 1-6, 6-1 in the finals. (2/24)

Members of the GPS state championship relay team celebrate their
All-American consideration time.

Spirited Jazz Visits GPS
Dancers from the Dayton Contemporary Dance Company came early to the Scenic City to spend a day in dance classes at GPS.  The company, along with the Dirty Dozen Brass Band, performed at the Tivoli in a jazz, gospel, and dance theatre event, celebrating Mardi Gras and Black History Month and sponsored by UTC's Fine Arts Center and Patten Performances. All ages of GPS dancers practiced their "jazzier" side with the guest artists. (2/20)

A visiting artist from the Dayton Contemporary Dance Company works with the dance
classes at GPS on Thursday before the company's planned performance on Sunday
at the Tivoli.

Food Services "Rookie" Gets National Honor
Although the faculty and staff of GPS didn't get to cast their vote, they would have joined SAGE Dining Services in awarding Tom Goetz, GPS' Director of Food Services, the company's "Rookie of the Year" honors.  In his first year at GPS, Goetz and his staff have met quarterly with student representatives to test new items and discuss student concerns.  In addition to the array of made-from-scratch food offered during the lunch periods, the staff also caters an average of 30-40 school events per month. He was presented with the award at the company's national meeting and recognized as the best out of 40 candidates across the country. (2/19)

Roses to Benefit Habitat
The traditional fundraiser for Habitat, roses from loving parents and grandparents, found some senior volunteers spending a Sunday afternoon at GPS attaching the many roses to the fronts of lockers in the middle and upper schools. GPS students will be on class trips and out in the Chattanooga community serving at 15 area agencies on the two-day Winterim break before Valentines' Day, and these long-stemmed beauties were early presents that raised almost $20,000 for the senior Habitat project. (2/11)

Two of the senior volunteers who spent a Sunday afternoon distributing the Habitat
roses for GPS students.

Marathon Accomplishments
Both junior Kelly Bergmann and senior Rebecca Taylor met their personal goals at the Tybee Run, a marathon held outside Savannah, Georgia, the first weekend of February. The girls trained on their own over the winter months and are quick to acknowledge the encouragement and help they got from their GPS coaches. Rebecca finished her first full marathon in first place in the under-19 age bracket. Kelly ran the 13.1 miles of the half-marathon, coming in 6th out of 20 in her age bracket and finishing in the top third overall.    Both girls ran in times under their goals; Kelly's time was 1 hour, 54 minutes, and Rebecca's was 3 hours, 57 minutes.  Their families, and the GPS family, are proud of their stamina and determination, as well as their success! (2/10)

VISIONS 2003
Parents, alums, and friends of GPS will gather Saturday evening at The Chattanoogan for Visions 2003 and bid on items ranging from a Safari to spa vacations. Funds raised at the popular auction go to benefit the financial aid program, leadership and community service initiatives, academic, fine arts, and athletic programs, and the GPS Learning Center. (2/21)

Important Weekend for Swimming & Basketball Teams
Buoyed by support from the GPS community, the swimming and diving teams leave Thursday for the State Swim Meet in Nashville this weekend.  Taking an undefeated 8-0 record into state competition, the Bruiser swimmers are looking forward to a very competitive meet. "There are three or four teams with a chance to win," says Coach John Woods, and GPS is definitely one of them..
The basketball team heads to Knox Catholic Thursday and hosts Baylor on Friday at its last home game, "Senior Night."  The GPS Parent Council is hosting its annual Basketball Barbecue Bash for the fans, with dinner beginning at 5:30.  The basketball players playing in their last home game are LeAndrea Johnson, Ali Mena, Lauren Waters, and Taylor Wilson.  Senior cheerleaders are Emily Bovine, Karla Chambless, Sarah Faulkner, Michal Howick, Vivian Parham, Jane Shin, Kate Shuster, and Courtney Spahn. (2/20)

Heart Smart Visitors
Students from Hickory Valley Christian School came to GPS Tuesday and learned about healthy heart living.  A "walking" tour through the heart began with anaerobic activity and followed with visits to the atrium, valve, ventricle, artery, and lungs (cones, mats, and tunnels set up by the GPS P.E. department).  Activities distributing the blood to the brain, organs, muscles, and nerves involved scooters, weights, rope jumping and basketball. "Walk Through the Heart" is just one of the original programs designed to meet the SHAPE program's mission to Start Habits to Attain Physical Excellence for all of the students. (2/4)

Wearing a red vest to signify the presence of oxygenated blood, a student from Hickory Valley Christian School travels through the "aorta" as part of the GPS "Walk Through the Heart."

"Crazy Sock" Day
There's always something fun going on in the middle school at GPS. Monday, Feb. 3, for example, was remembered as the 100th day of school, and that's enough of a reason for a celebration in the sixth grade.  The classmates came to school decked out in crazy socks and found their hallway decorated by the class officers and invitations on each locker to the 100th-day celebration.  Among the events for the day were doughnuts and juice after first period classes, 100th-day crowns for each student who is now 100 days smarter, bookmarks, and a special display of 100 great books.  They voted for their favorite, and the winner at a drawing received a gift certificate to Barnes & Noble.  Never a dull moment! (2/3)

Assorted designs on the feet of sixth graders celebrating "Sock Day" were spotted in
Mrs. Glasscock's art class.  Even the teachers joined in the fun with
their own creative socks.

GPS Swamps Baylor
GPS captured its fourth straight swimming victory over rival Baylor (106-80) Thursday evening at the GPS pool. The Bruisers were led by Marshall University signee, Emily Edmonson, who won the 100 and 200 freestyle events.  Also turning in solid performances were Keelee Wrenn, first in the 50 free; Kelly Spencer, first in the 100 breaststroke; and Kendall Jacobs, first in the 200 IM. This year's senior swimmers have never lost in a dual meet to Baylor. (1/31)

A win over Baylor capped off a perfect 4-0 record in dual meets against the Raiders
for this year's senior swimmers.

Basketball Bruisers Upset Region's #1 Team
From the opening tip to the final minutes, the GPS basketball team outplayed #1 ranked Knox Webb on Tuesday night, 46-29. Senior LeAndrea Johnson led GPS with 14 points.  The Bruisers took a lead, 12-6, in the first quarter and never trailed the Lady Spartans.  Allyson Heard totaled 8 points, Ali Mena, Kristina Wright, and MeLyn Thompson tallied 6 apiece, Denise Rawlings scored 5, and Danielle Driscoll had one.  During halftime ceremonies, McCallie senior Andrew Boston was crowned GPS' 2003 "Snow King" by Student Council vice-president Anna Straussberger.  Other candidates presented at halftime were Robert Bass, Ramsey Brock, Thomas Brooks, Ignacio Gomez Navarro, and David Ray. (1/29)

The GPS Student Council vice-president escorted the GPS 2003
"Snow King" around the gym during halftime of Tuesday's basketball
game against Knox Webb. 

A Writer on Writing
Tom Griscom, Executive Editor of the Chattanooga Times Free Press, spoke to the junior AP English Language class Friday morning.  The topic, editorial writing, addressed a particular skill required by the AP Language exam.  Jessica Good, teacher and English department chair, has had the students read all editorials in the local newspaper for the past few months.  Mr. Griscom encouraged the students to find "anchors in facts" as they combine rhetoric with analysis.  "Make the reader wrestle with your argument and their own thoughts," he said.
(1/24)

Chattanooga Times Free Press Executive Editor Tom Griscom spoke to an AP English
Language class Friday, using the editorials from the local newspaper to talk about the
art of writing persuasive arguments.

Orchestra's Special Guest
Maestro Robert Bernhardt, conductor of the Chattanooga Symphony, made a guest appearance Wednesday morning at GPS.  By invitation from GPS director Mary Baxter, Maestro Bernhardt led the musicians in a special class. Using humor and a personal touch, he cajoled and encouraged the senior orchestra members through pieces planned for their next concert. (1/23)

Conductor of the Chattanooga Symphony, Robert Bernhardt led the Senior Orchestra
through a morning's rehearsal. 

Celebrating Life of Martin Luther King, Jr.
Taking advantage of local speakers and the reflections of GPS seniors, the GPS student body celebrated the life and legacy of Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr, during the Monday holiday honoring his life.  A guest of a morning AP History class was Dr. Calvin Calhoun, whose father was Dr. King's college roommate and whose family remains close to the King family. Maxine Bailey, executive director of Girls, Inc., spoke with passion to a school-wide assembly on "Creating the Beloved Community."  Ms. Bailey encouraged the students to seek solutions to poverty, racism, and war.  Lunchtime Learning in the Caldwell Commons at 11:45 featured a panel of African-American seniors and World Languages teacher Michelle Lewis, '85, sharing their thoughts of "Being Black at GPS."  Members of UMOJA, the multi-cultural club at GPS, invited all students to join them for the Martin Luther King, Jr. Memorial March starting at 5:45 p.m. at the Central City Complex and ending at the Tivoli Theater for a speaker.  Reflection, study, and participation are the ways in which GPS honors the memory of Dr. King. (1/20)

Three juniors  joined Maxine Bailey on stage after the Girls, Inc. Executive Director
spoke at assembly and honored Dr. King's memory using his words and message of
peace and reconciliation. (More pictures)

Paris Cheered By Hometown Fans
Former GPS star Tommi Paris has been the focus of cheering crowds at basketball games in her career, but the crowd of GPS basketball players, faculty, and parents who saw her play for Furman at UTC Monday night made it a "good homecoming."  A point guard for the Lady Paladins, Paris scored 12 points and had four assists along with two blocked shots.  GPS teacher William Montgomery, who had promised Tommi one dollar for every free throw she made in a team competition for a worthy cause at Furman, must not have heard that Tommi leads the Southern Conference in free throw percentage.  He wrote a check for a reported 94 out of 100 shots. (1/14)

Eighth grade basketball players  were among the crowd of  fans cheering on
former GPS standout Tommi Paris in her homecoming as a Furman Lady
Paladin. (photo by Phyllis Haskins).

Meeting the Goals She Set
GPS, Duke University, and Georgetown University Law Center alum Nedra Campbell, '90, came home to Chattanooga this week as the featured speaker for the 2003 Tolerance Conference at the Chattanooga African American Museum. She returned as an author of the just published guide to the American legal system, More Justice, More Peace. Before a book signing at the museum, she talked about her education at GPS. Remembering an 8th grade "Choices" class, she recalls that class as one in which she made goals for herself, and she still has the book in which she wrote out her career plan.  "When I turned 30," she said, "I looked at the goals I had written in 8th grade and was excited to see 'published author and attorney.'"  With experience in civil litigation cases in Detroit involving police misconduct, harassment, and racial and religious discrimination, Campbell has written a valuable reference book for African Americans to guide them in understanding and dealing with the legal system. (1/14)

GPS graduate Nedra Campbell returned to Chattanooga as a
published author and signed books for several former teachers.

Out of Africa
1997 GPS graduate Katie Conn spoke to middle and upper school students last week about her experiences in Guinea with the Peace Corps.  Almost finished with a two-year assignment, Katie teaches math and science in a school, helps with health education, and conducts art classes for young children on her porch in the African country.  Describing the people of Guinea as lovely, affectionate, and appreciative, Katie depicted life in one of the world's poorest countries as more like life in the 1800's and answered questions about the Peace Corps. (1/13)

Katie Conn spoke at GPS before leaving for Africa
and her Peace Corps assignment.

Another Close Loss
For the fourth time this season and the second game in a row, the GPS Bruiser basketball team lost by only one point, this time on Tuesday night to Red Bank, 39-38.  With an injured Taylor Wilson on the bench, the team fought and scrapped to take a lead in the second quarter, but the Lionettes benefited from a turnover and a rebound to seal the close victory. Two other games this season have gone into overtimes, and one other game was lost by only two points. Seniors LeAndrea Johnson, Ali Mena, and Lauren Waters were true leaders on the court, combining for a total of 22 points.  Other scorers were Joanna Suddath, MeLyn Thompson, Danielle Driscoll, and Heather Beckler. (1/23)

Two Sports Victories
Both the swim and basketball teams recorded victories Tuesday night in close matches.  In a meet against Harpeth Hall, last year's state champion, the Bruisers edged the Honeybears, 159-152.  Notching wins for GPS were Michelle Brown in the 100-yard backstroke and the 200 freestyle relay team of Andrea Clifford, Ashley Singer, Keelee Wrenn, and Emily Edmonson.
The basketball Bruisers beat visiting Knox Catholic 41-37.  Lead scorer for GPS was Kristina Wright with 17.  Others who got points against the region competition were Lauren Waters with 3, Ali Mena with 2, Taylor Wilson with 5, MeLyn Thompson with 6, and LeAndrea Johnson with 8. (1/15)

Students Share Science Projects
The path through the Trustees Gallery to the GPS Library is usually clear except for a few juniors stretched out sleeping or studying.  Recently, the gallery was filled with different distractions, a display of science projects by 7th and 8th grade students.  A "dress rehearsal" for the Chattanooga Regional Science and Engineering Fair, the middle school activity will yield about 44 entries for the February competition at UTC.  Middle school science teachers are Kim Brown, Katye Couch, Gary Morton, and Sonya Steele. (12/10)

Hypothesis, procedure, variables....all words now familiar to 7th and 8th grade
science students who've just completed their semester projects.

Lego Mission Accomplished
Although they didn't come home with trophies or awards, the "BruiserBots," the GPS team of robot-building freshmen, had tons of fun designing and programming a Lego robot for recent statewide competition.  Sarah Clark, Avani Javer, Sarah Kate Neall, and Elizabeth Wood created their robot to complete up to eight possible missions and steer through an obstacle course of trees and buildings.  They vied with 67 other Tennessee teams to meet the needs of residents of a city chosen by the team for their research presentation. Sponsor Joellen Wood said the girls learned about design and the software to program the robot and proceeded through trial and error to finish the project. (12/9)

Technical wizards from the ninth grade proudly show off their Lego robot which
competed in statewide competition recently.

Making News
From the cafeteria to athletics, this year's holiday abundance seemed to be in the number of times GPS faculty and students were featured or quoted in the local news over Thanksgiving break.  In a piece about school cafeteria fare, junior Kate Commander was quoted extolling the great food and variety offered in the GPS dining hall, as well as the helpful attitude by the staff.  Rachel McCallie, rowing coach, was interviewed for a story on the popularity of rowing in Chattanooga and the opportunities for rowing scholarships...four in last year's senior class. Junior Mary Howard Ade was pictured with her family members and their menagerie of cats and dogs in a story about living peacefully with pets.  And congratulations to Stacey Hill, selected "Coach of the Year" for the Best of Preps Cross Country team.  GPS runners who made the All-Area First Team were Christine DeHart, Lauren Fisher, and Taylor Wilson.  Ali Mena and Rebecca Taylor were named to the second team. (12/3)

Cross Country Coach of the Year Stacey Hill gives a high five as he accepts
congratulations from his family and friends at the recent Region Meet.
(photo by Lara Sibold)

Best of Preps....Continued
In volleyball, soccer, and golf, GPS athletes also made the All-Area  Teams.  Caitlin Cook was on the First Team in soccer; Lauren Waters and Katie Youell were on the Second Team, and K.O. Campbell and Anna Straussberger were Honorable Mention.  Volleyball's Jessica Hulgan, First Team, was joined by Lillian Hammond on Second Team and Laura Dickerson and Melissa Fain as Honorable Mention.  Holden Miller and Randall Norman were named to Golf's First Team, and Kristin Coffey was selected to the Second Team. (12/3)

Terpsichord Celebrates Thanksgiving
In their first performance of the year, Terpsichord, GPS' modern dance company, presented its annual Thanksgiving program prior to the school's holiday vacation.  "Thoughts of Thanksgiving" featured student choreography, spectacular new costumes, and a duet by the Terpsichord president and vice-president, Alice Smith and Maggie LaRochelle.  Cathie Kasch, the sponsor and nationally recognized dance educator, described the program as having "great variety," with music ranging from Cirque de Soleil to Marvin Gaye.  As always, the theater was crowded with past Terpsichord members and GPS graduates home from college. (11/26)

Middle School Math Success
Congratulations go to the 7th and 8th grade math teams that competed in the Franklin Math Contest this past weekend in Johnson City at ETSU University School.  The 7th grade brought back a first place team trophy, and Kirsten Early led the team with her top score. Leslie Moore placed second, and Audrey Barth's score was good for a seventh place finish.  The 8th graders were awarded the 3rd place team trophy for their participation in the contest which consisted of multiple choice questions and a team problem-solving round. (11/18)

Two Firsts by Edmonson
Swimmer Emily Edmonson recorded two firsts when she signed scholarship papers to swim for Marshall University.  Emily is the first GPS senior this year to sign an athletic scholarship, and she is the first swimmer in GPS history to sign with the Division I school in Huntington, West Virginia.  Visiting the school a month ago, Emily was impressed with the coaches and her future teammates, saying that their enthusiasm and warm welcome made her feel at home. Commenting on her final year with the swim program under Coach John Woods, Emily says, "The team has been wonderful; we are excited to be at practice, and my fellow seniors have been especially important." Emily has three fifth place finishes in state tournaments and has been a member of several winning relay teams, garnering All-American times on those. (11/14)

Surrounded by green balloons, carnations, and a stuffed buffalo for the
Thundering Herd mascot of Marshall University, Emily Edmonson signs her
Division I scholarship papers while coach John Woods looks on.

Tennis Association Honors Five
The Chattanooga Tennis Association honored several GPS students at their recent annual banquet.  Sophomore Stephanie Harris received the prestigious Alex Guerry Most Outstanding Girl Award.  Lauren Lorberbaum, a junior, was awarded the honor of Girls' 16's Most Improved Award; and sophomore Haleigh Sherbak received the Girls' 14's Sportsmanship Award.  Middle school tennis team members Claire Bartlett and Grace Robinette also were honored.  Claire received the Sue Cooper Most Improved Girl Award, and Grace received the Most Improved Girls' 14's Award.  The middle school team completed their third straight  undefeated season in the fall. (11/13)

Christmas Break Activities
The Christmas holidays begin Wed., Dec. 18, but for members of the swimming and basketball teams, school will still be open...at least for practice.  The basketball team has three games over the holidays, an away game at Webb and tournament games at East Ridge (see calendar at right).  Classes resume Monday, Jan. 6.

Holiday Gathering for Alums
The second annual Young Alum Holiday Party for GPS and McCallie graduates has been set for Friday, Dec. 20, at Mary McGuires at 7 p.m.  Last year's event drew a large crowd, and this year's party for members of the classes of 1998-2002 will enjoy complimentary food and beverage as they chat with friends, classmates and even some faculty. (12/16)

Music Makes the Season
GPS parents, students, staff, and guests enjoyed the opportunity to experience the best of Christmas music in concerts at GPS and McCallie.  The Middle School Winter Concert, featuring choral and instrumental groups and the GPS/McCallie Coordinate Choir, will be presented in the Frierson Theater at 7 p.m., Dec. 5. 
On Friday, Dec. 6, at 7:30, the Frierson Theater will once again be the venue for the Winterfest Concert, an increasingly popular way to get into the holiday spirit.  Among the performers will be the Senior Orchestra, the GPS Handbells, the Tango Group with Anna Conn on harp and Rachel McCallie on string bass; the GPS Glee Club, the GPS/McCallie Chamber Ensemble, the GPS/McCallie Honors Orchestra, and introducing the GPS Jazz Band.
The traditional Candlelight Chorus will round out the musical offerings with performances on Saturday at 8 p.m. and Sunday at 7 p.m. in the McCallie Chapel.  The concert will feature the Candlelight Chorus, the Men's Chorus, the Wind Ensemble, the Select Ensemble, the Handbell Ensemble, the Honor's Orchestra, and the Guitar Quartet. Tickets ($5) can be ordered by calling Linda Brandon in the McCallie Music Department at 493-5645. An admission donation of a can of food for the Chattanooga Community Kitchen is also requested. (12/4)

Guests for the GPS holiday concerts will be greeted by this beautifully
decorated Christmas tree in the lobby of the Frierson Theater.

Salute to Veterans
The GPS Key Club honors Veterans' Day each year with a "Hall of Remembrance" in the Rotunda listing all living relatives of students, faculty, and staff who are serving or have served in the U.S. Armed Forces.  A display of flags lining the school's sidewalks and the presentation of the colors at assembly are other annual events for the club.  This year club members contacted area churches and asked that they ring their bells at 11:11 a.m. as a reminder to Chattanoogans of the sacrifices veterans have made and as a call to prayers for peace. (11/11)

Sidewalk flags are one element of the annual Veterans' Day remembrance
by the GPS Key Club.

Seniors Have Modern Quilting Bee
One of the big money makers at the annual GPS VISIONS auction is the senior quilt, pieced squares designed by each member of the senior class.  Many of the seniors got started on their quilt recently at a quilting party sponsored by senior moms. The squares of designs featuring the names, artwork, or interests associated with the members of the class of 2003 will be quilted into a work of art sure to drive up the bidding at the February 22 VISIONS event. (11/8)

One senior begins her colorful quilt squaresat the recent senior quilting party for
the class of 2003 VISIONS auction item.

Kesler, Cook Win Region Honors
Will Kesler was named "Coach of the Year" for the Division East All-Region Team, and sophomore Caitlin Cook was awarded" Player of the Year" honors. She joins teammates Katie Youell, Lauren Waters, and Anna Straussberger as first team players.  K.O. Campbell and Tiffany Simms were selected for the all-region second team. (11/6)

Crew's Novice 8 Out in Front
The hard-working members of the rowing team's Novice 8 crew made waves at the recent Chattahoochee Regatta, the biggest fall regatta in the Southeast.  The Novice 8 placed first out of 24 boats, marking the first time a GPS team has won an event in the sweep boat competition at the Chattahoochee. Members of the Novice 8 boat are Robyn Spink, Brittany Pittman, Elizabeth Wood, Margaret Lester, Lindsey Watts, Kaitlin Dewhirst, Alessandra Eisman, Stephanie Liu, and Sarah Neall.  Over 5,000 competitors rowing in over 950 boats participated in the Saturday events.  The other GPS boats did well, with most placing in the top half of their field, according to coach Rachel McCallie. (11/5)

Cross Country Takes Second in State
The cross country team ran to second place in the Division II state girls' race in Nashville, and Taylor Wilson finished the distance recording her personal best, placing 6th in 18:56.  Also finishing in the top 20 were Lauren Fisher, Christine DeHart, and Ali Mena.  Coach Stacey Hill said that their times were good enough some years to win state, but the team was pleased to have defeated the higher-ranked Brentwood Academy. (11/4)

GPS Alums in Homecoming Spotlight at Vanderbilt
Ashley Moore, a 1999 graduate of GPS, was announced as Homecoming Queen at halftime ceremonies at Vanderbilt University last Saturday. She and fellow GPS alum Marissa Shrum were nominated by campus organizations at Vanderbilt and were selected for the court after being interviewed and submitting personal essays. GPS teachers who had these girls in classes and others who witnessed their many contributions to GPS are not surprised at the recognition by their university. (10/30)

1999 GPS graduate Ashley Moore was crowned Homecoming Queen at Vanderbilt
last Saturday.  She is pictured here with the king, Jerel Smith, and Chancellor
Gordon Gee, right. (Photo by Neil Brake/Vanderbilt Univ.)

Sophomore Carnival Fills Hearts
Many 10th graders got to dress up early for Halloween as they hosted a Fall Carnival last weekend for children currently on the waiting list of the Big Brother/Big Sister organization.  With donations from the sophomores, the class was able to entertain the children with a Moon Walk, an obstacle course, pumpkin and face painting, and water balloons.  All of the guests headed home with stomachs full of popcorn and cotton candy and smiles on their faces.  BBBS representatives were pleased with the turnout, stating that this event was the first time anyone had offered something for the children on the waiting list. Like so many other community service efforts, this one was a treat for the givers as well of the recipients. (10/31)

Sophomores offered treats as well as tricks to one of the many children attending the Fall
Carnival for Big Brothers/Big Sisters. (To see more pictures from the event, click here.)

Sharing Their Musical Talents
The music of the Senior Orchestra shared with the student body in the Rotunda of the school during lunchtime last week is going out into the Chattanooga community this week.  Members of the orchestra have been chosen to perform with the Chattanooga Symphony and Opera Youth Orchestra at the Tivoli Theater to audiences of school children from across the area.  Performing will be Melissa Brown, Megan Galbreth, Ellie Grebowski, Jamie Grebowski, Sarah Grebowski, and Rachel Rowell. (10/29)

"Robin Hood" Tradition of Giving
One of the craziest, busiest, and most generous weeks of the year is Robin Hood, the annual fall fundraiser for community agencies.  Class raffles, a GPS "lottery," a Las Vegas theme, and sales of fast food lunches, baked goods, and crafts raise money for many organizations in the Chattanooga community such as Make A Wish, the Multiple Sclerosis Society, Big Brothers/Big Sisters, Inner City Ministries, and the American Cancer Society. (10/28)

Robin Hood representatives model he much-in-demand Robin Hood t-shirts.

"Flowers for Algernon" Opens Friday
A large GPS/McCallie cast and crew will present their fall play this weekend in the Frierson Theater on the GPS campus.  Performances of "Flowers for Algernon" are scheduled for Friday and Saturday nights at 8 p.m. and on Sunday at 2:30.  The production is directed by Suzanne Smartt, assisted by Eddie Gwaltney. (11/6)

GPS Welcomes TAIS
Over 800 educators and administrators from Tennessee's independent schools were welcomed to the GPS campus on Monday, for the Tennessee Association of Independent Schools' Biennial Conference.  With a theme of "Making Tracks into the 21st Century," the conference featured a line up of speakers, awards ceremonies, workshops and exhibitors.  More than 240 people were honored for their service of 20 years or more to their school at the morning's Plenary Session.  Later, the Honor Chorale, recognizing the best in each school's choral program, performed.  The 200 workshops geared for professional development included a variety of PreK through 12th grade topics such as e-books and on-line texts, character education, forensic science, research writing, and mathematics manipulatives. (11/4)

Wet Win at Greenway
The wet grass may have slowed some times, but the GPS team still swept the competition in the Division II East Region Cross Country Championships held last weekend at Greenway Farm.  A GPS runner, senior Lauren Fisher, also won the individual race. She was joined by Christine DeHart, Taylor Wilson, and Ali Mena in the top ten.
The team will compete this next weekend at the state meet in Nashville at Percy Warner Park, times to be announced. (10/28)

GPS Cross Country seniors gather around their Region Championship plaque. 
Math Results Add Up to College Money
Congratulations to senior Anne Rushing, one of 10 finalists in the University of Tennessee Pro2Serve Math Contest and a recipient of a four-year full-tuition and fees scholarship at UTK.  Of the over 750 students from Tennessee high schools who participated, three students from GPS were among the six girls in the top fifty.  Dannelly Brown and junior Megan Galbreth joined Anne as high scorers.  Jerry Shannon and Cork Conner are their proud teachers. (10/25)

Coordinate Program Still Strong
One of the unique aspects of life at GPS involves the successful coordinate relationship with McCallie School.  An array of pizza parties, dances, and extracurricular activities like community service initiatives involve both girls from GPS and boys from McCallie.  A time when that shared enthusiasm is at its height is during Baylor/McCallie week and the annual football "event" won this year by McCallie, 22-15.  Sign painting, a bon fire, the Big Blue Block Party, and the caravan to Finley Stadium all were enjoyed by students from both schools. (10/16)

Cheerleaders from GPS are on the sidelines of every McCallie football game.

Modeling Leadership for the Students
Leadership is one of the many skills taught in the classrooms, athletic fields, and extracurricular activities at GPS, and girls are encouraged to apply those skills in the larger community.  A model of leadership is the GPS Associate Head and Upper School Principal, Rickie Pierce, who recently became the president of the Kiwanis Club of Chattanooga.  She is the immediate past president of Sister Cities Association of Chattanooga and is the current chair of trustees at First Centenary United Methodist Church. (10/15)

Rickie Pierce received the gavel of Kiwanis leadership from past
president Trip Smith, father of senior Alice Smith.

Reading Across Chattanooga
Combining a love of reading with community service, the sixth grade class spent a morning reading to students at Calvin Donaldson School, Inner City Ministries, East Chattanooga Reading Center, and two Head Start centers.  Inspired by similar service on last year's "Read Across America" day, the students took their own favorite books to share before heading back to leadership games and elections for class officers. (10/9)

Someone seems to be really enjoying the book being read by a GPS
sixth grader!

Commended and Achievement Scholars
Continuing a tradition of having at least 20% of the senior class recognized by the National Merit program, GPS recently saluted the Commended Scholars and Achievement Scholars from the class of 2003.  The nine merit semifinalists have already been announced.
Crystal Patterson was named a Semifinalist and Vivian Parham received special recognition in the National Achievement Scholarship Program. Conducted by the National Merit Scholarship Corporation, the program honors outstanding Black American students with scholarship awards.
Commended students also recognized for their exceptional academic promise were Mae Mae Barnes, Jenny Bieter, Dannelly Brown, Kate Burk, Angela Ford, Karisa Johns, Maggie LaRochelle, Emily Lilley, Brennan McMahon, Mary Katherine Roark, and Amanda Youell. (10/8)

Autumn Queen Crowned
Maggie LaRochelle was announced as the McCallie School's 2002 Autumn Queen during halftime ceremonies of the football game last Friday night.  The candidates included the queen, Kristin Morrison, Vivian Parham, Kate Shuster, Courtney Spahn, and Lauren Waters, all seniors at GPS. The queen, who was escorted by Josh Suddath, was the choice by a vote of the McCallie student body and is a member of the Honor Council at GPS. (10/7)

The Autumn Queen is presented during halftime
ceremonies of the McCallie/Brentwood Academy game.

NHS Selections
Nineteen juniors and seniors have been tapped as new members of the Duffy Jarnigan chapter of the National Honor Society based on their scholarship, service, leadership, and character.  New senior members are Laura DuPre, Emily Edmonson, Hillary Hammond, Darcy Knowles, Grace Milburn, Crystal Patterson, Rachel Rowell, and Kate Shuster. Juniors honored are Mary Caughran, Iz Conroy, Katherine Crews, Megan Galbreth, Jamie Grebowski, Anna Holt, Laura Keys, Amy Killian, Priya Patel, Megan Peterson, and Jennifer Touse. (10/3)

Disappointments in State Play
Despite outshooting the Harpeth Hall Honeybears, 17-5, GPS lost in sudden death, 1-0, on a penalty kick in the Division II semifinal game of state tournament play at Finley Stadium. 
In Murfreesboro, at the Division II Volleyball Tournament, GPS lost in the first round of elimination matches, 13-15, 15-9, 15-8, to rival Baylor.
The road to the state cross-country meet begins Saturday morning at the region meet run at Greenway Farms, 10 a.m.  Seniors Taylor Wilson, Lauren Fisher, Ali Mena, Rebecca Taylor, and Babs Murray will be running in their last local race for the Bruisers. (10/25)

Another Bruisaer sets a pace that her competition can't match in the Optimist City
Cross Country Championships.  (Photo by Haley Hill)

Cross Country, Soccer Are Champions, Again
With four top-place finishers, GPS handily won the team victory in the Optimist City Cross Country Championships, and for the second year in a row, the GPS soccer team has defeated Baylor for the Division II East Region soccer championship. 
Taylor Wilson was the speediest runner in the annual Optimist meet, followed by Christine Dehart, Lauren Fisher and Ali Mena, all with times under 20 minutes.  Rebecca Taylor's 13th place finish sealed the 40-76 win over second place Baylor.

Caitlin Cook scored the winning goal in the exciting 1-0 region soccer finals.  The Bruisers then beat Father Ryan, 2-1, in a quarterfinal state tournament contest and will take their 12-1-4 record into state semifinal competition Thursday evening at 7 against Harpeth Hall.  Winning goals during the Father Ryan match were scored by Julie Pollard and Caitlin Cook. The second win of the season over Baylor was particularly sweet for senior Amanda Youell, who has been sidelined for much of the season with a back problem but who was able to play in each half of the region game. (10/18)

State Tournament Play Continues
The GPS volleyball team ends pool play today in the state tournament after splitting two games Wednesday, losing to Briarcrest, 6-15, 15-7, 15-12, and defeating Battle Ground Academy, 16-14, 15-13.  Meanwhile, the soccer Bruisers are awaiting their 7 p.m. semifinal game at Finley Stadium tonight against Division II competitor Harpeth Hall.

In Murfreesboro, Lillian Hammond had 35 digs and 27 kills in the volleyball matches.  Jessica Hulgan totaled 15 kills, 15 digs, and 16 assists.  Laura Dickerson and Mika Malone also had significant contributions.  GPS lost in three games to Harpeth Hall this morning and will play Baylor in the first round of single elimination at 4:30 (EST).

With six starters returning to the soccer squad this season, the  team, under the coaching of Will Kesler, is one of the tournament favorites and has previously defeated tonight's opponent. Sophomore Caitlin Cook leads the team in scoring. (10/24)

Spirit Week 2002
Sponsored by the Student Council and GyPSies, the first annual "Spirit Week" will feature car decorations, class banner designs, and several middle school and varsity athletic contests sure to attract a "spirited" crowd of Bruiser fans. Monday's "Dress Blue" day is capped off with cross-country races and soccer tournament play in the middle school.  Tuesday's special event is the soccer region final versus Baylor at GPS.  A prize for the best decorated car will be awarded on Wednesday.  Thursday's dress day theme is "Decades," and the athletic event to support is the varsity City-County Meet at Baylor.  Friday's "Pajama Day" should guarantee comfort as students watch their peers perform during the annual Talent Show and in the Varsity Volleyball Division II Sectionals. Go Bruisers! (10/14)

First Regatta Success
In last Saturday's opening regatta of the crew season on the Tennessee River, GPS won three races. The regatta attracted competitors from three states and gathered hundreds of fans on the banks of the river and on the Walnut Street Bridge, prime viewing areas. The Bruisers took first and second places in the Women's Novice 4 (Erin Felton, Emily Nagle, Katherine Reinshagen, Anne Campeau; coxswain, Kelly Johnson), and in the Women's Novice 8, GPS boats finished first (Margaret Lester, Elizabeth Wood, Leslie Macaluso, Lindsay Watts, Stephanie Liu, Kaitlin Dewhirst, Sarah Neall; coxswain, Alessandra Eiseman), second and fourth.  The third win was in the Women's Youth 4, edging Oak Ridge.  In the Women's Youth 8, GPS came in second by a narrow margin. (10/14)

Cheers to You
GPS is pleased to announce the nine seniors named Semifinalists by the National Merit Scholarship Program.  The girls placed in the top nationwide among those who took the PSAT in their junior year.  Honored for their outstanding academic potential are Lauren Fisher, Holly Howell, Rebecca Hudson, Darcy Knowles, Rachel Rowell, Anne Rushing, Ashley Rutledge, Kristen Schmits, and Rebecca Taylor.

Congratulations to the new officers of the Beta Club:  Mary Katherine Roark, president; Rachel Nelson, vice-president; Kristen Schmits, secretary; and Cassie Moss, treasurer.

New Beta Club Officers.

Applause also goes to the GPS students who have been selected to serve on leadership groups in the Chattanooga community.  Katie Pinchak and Crystal Patterson will serve this year on the Chattanooga Youth Council, and Karen Pala and Katy Bridger will be GPS representatives on Youth Leaderships of Chattanooga. (9/18)

7th Year Sets Enrollment Record
The largest enrollment in the history of GPS, 778 students, began the 2002-03 school year with a traditional opening assembly on Monday, August 19. The 6th grade class, with more students than at any other independent girls' school in the country, was welcomed by seventh graders through  "Grand Old Seniors."  The 97th school year, like all others before, promises to make a difference in the lives of girls through knowledge, character, community service, the arts, and athletics. (8/19)

Weekend Plans?
What homework?  There's too much to do this weekend starting with tonight's Division II East Soccer Semifinals versus Webb on the lower field at 6 p.m.  The game should be over in time for the McCallie bon fire followed by the Big Blue Block Party in anticipation of tomorrow's contest between McCallie and Baylor at Finley Stadium.  Game time - 3:30.
If football isn't your choice, the GPS crew team will be participating in the first regatta of the season.  Prime viewing spots on the Walnut Street bridge will allow a good place for cheering on the novice and varsity boats in races that begin at 10:20 a.m.  On this weekend, homework will have to wait until Sunday. (10/11)

Collaboration of Physics and Dance
Sandra Kaufmann, creator of a multi-media work based on the Superstring Theory, visited Center for Creative Arts High School and GPS this week to discuss the seven sections of the choreographic piece.  Inspired by the book The Elegant Universe, her work is meant to educate and enliven audiences about the beauty within theoretical physics.  Dancers from both GPS and CCA are working to learn different sections from the piece for a combined performance later in the school year.  A professional dancer, Ms. Kaufmann is a former member of the Martha Graham Dance Company. (10/10)

Soccer, Volleyball Take Wins Over Baylor
"Big" was the word used by both soccer coach Will Kesler and volleyball coach Paul Brock in describing last week's double defeats of rival Baylor.  The 2-1 soccer win over the previously undefeated Lady Raiders earned the Bruisers the top seed for next week's region tournament.  Caitlin Cook had both goals, and K.O. Campbell was a defensive standout.
An easier victory was taken by the volleyball squad as they defeated Baylor 15-2, 15-6.  The win makes GPS the #2 seed for the Division II Sectional Tournament beginning Oct. 18.  Melissa Fain led with 16 kills, Jessica Hulgan had 16 assists, and Abby Lockerby and Lillian Hammond had 21 and 19 digs. (10/4)

Caitlin Cook gets the winning shot in 2-1 win over Baylor.

New Faces Among Faculty and Staff
In the classrooms, offices, cafeteria, and athletic office, new members of the GPS community have been busy acclimating to their new positions.  Returning faculty and staff have welcomed three new members of the science department: Sonya Steele, 7th and 8th grade; Tina Fritz, biology; and Kathee Jones, 6th grade.  Barb Storm has taken the music/orchestra program, well, by storm, Jennifer McGann is teaching middle school English, and Kendy Smith is already busy planning GPS/McCallie coordinate events.  Brooke Phillips Moore '98 is a new advancement assistant, and Tom Goetz is the new cafeteria manager.  In athletics, Anthony Andrews is now the varsity head basketball coach and athletic administrative assistant, and Millie Henry '99 will assist him in basketball. (8/29) 

From left, Barb Storm, Jennifer McGann, Kathee Jones, Brooke Moore,
Kendy Smith, Sonya Steele, and Tina Fritz.

Challenge Win Benefits Community Agency
Sophomore Emily Killian and her winning team from the Chattanooga Youth Challenge presented a $500 check to Family and Children's Services on the Channel 9 Morning Show with Don Welch.  The challenge, sponsored by the Chattanooga Youth Council, involved teams of freshmen and sophomores from public and private schools who participated in games of challenge that tested their leadership skills and ability to work in groups.  Other GPS girls taking part in the contests were Sarah Wagner, Jennifer Torrance, and Eleanor Decosimo. (10/2)

Soccer Excitement and Salutes
Tuesday's varsity game with Knox Webb on the GPS lower field marked "Senior Night" for seven girls.  Pre-game ceremonies  honored Jennifer Schmidt, Maggie Sibley, Tiffany Simms, Lauren Smith, and co-captains Anna Straussberger, Lauren Waters, and Amanda Youell for their contributions to the success of the GPS soccer program.  The game was won, 4-0, on goals by Lauren Waters (2), Mary Howard Ade, and Caitlin Cook. (10/2)

450 Plus a Soccer Team
While the GPS Race for the Cure participants, numbering over 450, easily won the team trophy at last Saturday's Komen event, the soccer Bruisers were doing their part at an away game against Knox Catholic.  They each expressed their support for the race by painting a fingernail pink in honor of the survivors and victims of breast cancer and painting pink ribbons on their arms to symbolize a celebration for teammates Lauren Smith and Amanda Youell, who have survived other types of cancer.  Their "Game for the Cure" was won, 3-0, thanks to scores by Caitlin Cook and Lauren Waters and assists by Tiffany Simms. (9/30)

Soccer players aren't showing their biceps, but the pink Komen ribbons
painted on their arms.

Swim Success in Sunshine State
Last weekend's trip to Gulf Breeze, Florida, resulted in a win for the GPS swim team.  Junior Alice Revenig was named "Swimmer of the Meet" for having her two best times in three events.  Coach John Woods said that freshman Andrea Clifford had two individual wins and helped in two first place relays.