June 2015 Roar of the Tiger - Tennessee School for the Blind

The
TENNESSEE SCHOOL FOR THE BLIND
Volume 3, Issue 10
June 1, 2015
Graduates Have Bell Rung Sounding New Beginning
Not many schools in the world can promise
you an education that will “ring your bell”. But
when you make Tennessee School for the
Blind your choice for education, your
school bell will sound for you upon graduation.
In the vicinity of Donelson, TN on the morning
of Friday May 29th, you would have heard the
ol’ tower bell ring fifteen times. As the 2015
TSB Commencement Exercises came to a
close, the bell tolled once for each of the fifteen
graduates. As the bell echoed back through
the open doors of the school, each graduate
rose to their feet. This, their final bell at the
school, echoed the completion of many years
of daily class bells. Those bells had signaled
the beginning of another period of learning...
time to focus their minds and energy on gaining the knowledge and skills to become contributing, participating members of society.
This last bell, has also rung out proclaiming the beginning of a new lifelearning period. This period will likely see these
students
scattered
into many
different
classrooms
and schools of thought. Eight of the 2015
graduates have plans to seek classrooms in
institutions of higher learning. The remaining graduates will face education
in the demanding classroom
of life. These graduates will
hear more bells. Some will
Hear more classroom bells,
some workplace bells,
some wedding bells,
some church bells and
hopefully all will here
many more jingle bells.
However, today’s tower
bell is the only unique bell
Inside this issue:
that will identify them as
PRINCIPAL
being in a class all their
STAFF UPDATES
own… the TSB Class of
TSB ATHLETES
2015. A class that with
AWARDS DAY
the assistance of the
OUTSTANDING
teachers and staff, has
LIONS/TIGERS
determined that nothing
JOHNNY ON SPOT
is too difficult to overcome
JAZZ COMBO
in reaching this goal.
MAP ONE
Graduating today are:
MOTHER COUNTRY
(cont. on pg.7)
FIELD DAY
RESIDENTIAL
STAFF RUN
ALUMNI GATHER
HALL OF FAME
SPRING POETRY
SPRING MUSIC
ART EXPLOSION
HOW DENSE
MUSICAL FAREWELL
STAFF SPOTLIGHT
HOLLYWOOD
SOLO RECITAL
FRIENDS SCORE
EVENTS
2
3
4
4
6
6
7
7
8
8
9
9
10
10
11
12
13
14
15
15
16
18
19
20
20
Roar of the Tiger
From the Principal’s Pen
Hello TSB families, students, and staff – There
have been a number of great events over the
course of the past month that have allowed me
to spend more time with students and staff. Our
Positive Behavior Intervention and Supports
(PBIS) program has been running strong all
year. Students collect Tiger Tickets that they can
“spend” on special items or activities. Middle
school student
Andre Walker
saved his Tiger
Tickets in order to be able
to be the morning announcer
Andre Walker and Dr. Brennen eat lunch. and to have
lunch with me. I enjoyed my lunch with Andre
and he even got to have some of his favorite
foods.
Kevin Fink, another middle school student,
saved enough Tiger Tickets to be “Principal for
the Day.” In his role as
principal, Kevin was
able to select the lunch
menu for the day, use
the radio as needed,
and help introduce the
spring music program.
The PBIS program at
Corban Galaviz give Anne a
cupcake during “Assistant
TSB has been very
Appreciation Day”.
positive!
I was honored to attend the DonelsonHermitage Chamber of Commerce’s Education Day on May 20th. TSB’s first ever teacher of the year, Allison Conway, was honored as
well as TSB students of the year, Brooks Gardner, Nathan Desmarais, and Gregory Harris.
It was really wonderful to see our students receive awards along with other students in the
Donelson-Hermitage area.
My year at TSB has been one full of learning
and a lot of laughter. I have truly enjoyed getting
Page 2
Brooks Gardner, Gregory Harris, Allison Conway, and Nathan Desmarais pose with Dr. Brennen. The DonelsonHermitage Chamber of Commerce’s Education Day Luncheon was at the Opryland Hotel.
to know the students and staff at TSB. However,
I have submitted my resignation from employment as principal of TSB. My last day as principal will be June 18, 2015. My family and I will be
moving back to Iowa.
Working with staff and the students has been
one of the most amazing experiences of my professional career. Making the decision to move
back to Iowa was an extraordinarily difficult decision to make. This decision was based on the
needs of my family. In no way is this move reflective of my feelings about the future of TSB.
Mr. Oldham and Mr. Travis have been tremendous in their support of my work.
As I leave TSB, I will have wonderful memories
and feel that I have an extended family. I have
felt truly loved and supported by everyone. My
hope is that TSB will continue to be a leading
school for students with visual impairments and
blindness. TSB will always have
a place in my heart.
Best wishes for a wonderful
summer!
Principal,
Susan
Brennan
Volume 3, Issue 10
New Staff And Staff Updates
Kayla Johnson
Kayla Johnson is the new Educational Assistant in Mr.
Baker’s classroom. Kayla
heard about Tennessee School
for the Blind from her grandfather who attended TSB in the
60's. Kayla has previously
Kayla Johnson
worked as a Special Education
EA and a substitute teacher in Rutherford
county. Kayla has a Bachelor of Science degree
and also recently became a Registered Dental
Assistant. She really enjoys working with
kids and helping them learn. In her spare time
Kayla enjoys being outside, watching movies, and spending time with her sister, nieces
and nephews. She is very excited about her new
career at TSB!
Roicio Duffle
Rocio Duffle may be a new
employee at TSB but she is
very familiar to most students
and staff. Rocio has been a
companion through Williamson
county schools working at TSB
for 15 years. Rocio has
Rocio Duffle
worked with the same student
for 15 years. Rocio started working with Fatima
in 2000. During her time at TSB, Rocio served
as a Girl Scout leader and even won an award
for excellence. This was the same year that she
became an American citizen too. Rocio hails
from Guadalajara, Mexico. In her free time Rocio enjoys traveling with her husband and
their dog Panchito. Rocio also enjoys spending time with her friends and volunteering for her
church.
Adetoro Adewuyi
Adetoro joins the TSB staff as a Youth Ser-
vice Worker. Coming originally from the nation of Nigeria,
Adetoro Adewuyi has lived in
the Nashville area for the last
thirteen years. Adetoro is married and the mother of four children. Having attended Middle
Tennessee State University,
Adetoro Adewuyi
she recently completed her
Bachelor Degree in Education, concentrating
in the area of Community and Public Health . I
have a positive attitude, am a good learner,
good listener and good team player. I love meeting and helping people, going out, listening to
music and exercising.
Tamika Marshall
You might say that Tamika
Marshall is quite familiar with
the Nashville community having
live here for the last 41 years. A
mother of three adult daughters, Tamika is also grandmother to four. “I am an easygoing,
Tamika Marshall
lover of life. I like to have fun,
laugh and be silly, Laughter is a major part of life
to me.” said Tamika In 1999 Tamika began
working with the Metropolitan Nashville Public
Schools. During her time at Jere Baxter Middle School she served as a General Office
Clerk. She later went on into the classroom
as an Educational Assistant for Metro in 2006. In
2006 Tamila took a job working in a private
behavioral school and was there until 2009. She
currently holds a job as a Site Supervisor for a
group home of behavioral adults as well as her
new position of Youth Service Worker. “ I absolutely love what I do” said Tamika, “and am
thankful to TSB for giving me an opportunity
to prove that.”
Search for Principal Begins
With the departure of Dr. Brennan this summer,
TSB will begin the search for a new principal.
“While I am deeply saddened by her (Dr. Brennan) departure, I am committed to finding a
qualified and suitable replacement.” said Interim
Superintendent Nathan Travis. Information
Page 3
concerning the position will be made available
on the school’s website when it becomes available. Interested parties can additionally contact
the school to find out about the application process. Contact information can be found at
www.tsbtigers.org or by calling 615-231-7300
Roar of the Tiger
Athletic Coaches Honor TSBs Top Athletes
Track Teams
Brooks Gardner
On Thursday May 14th the TSB Athletic
Department held their annual Awards
Banquet and Program. The following honors were awarded:
Wrestling
Most Valuable Wrestler- Tim Jones
Most Imp. Wrestler- Alyssa Loggins
Horizon Award - Eh Gay / Miguel Jose
Cheerleading
Outstanding C-leader- Alyssa Loggins
Most Imp. C-leader- Brooks Gardner
Determination Award- Tim Tanner
Cheerleaders
Frank Alexander
Goalball
Leadership Award- Taylor Grenier
Leadership Award- Nick Heggie
Goalball MVP Male- Tim Tanner
Goalball MVP Female- Alyssa Loggins
George Guerrero
Tim Tanner
Tim Jones
Swimming
Most Imp. Swim.- Isabella Martinez
Most Imp. Swim.- Miguel Jose
Most Val.Female Swim.- Taylor Grenier
Most Val. Male Swim.- Nick Heggie
Forensics
Outstanding Achievement- Corgan Waters
Leadership Award – Alyssa Loggins
Most Improved- Chamroeun Tea
Spirit of TSBForensics- Tim Tanner
MNPS Forensics League Plaques:
League Points for Special Events Second
Place- Corgan Waters
League Points Third Place Overall for
Special Events- TSB Team
Kayla Heinicke
Alyssa Loggins
Miguel Jose
Tim Jones
TSB Outstanding Female Athlete:
Alyssa Loggins
Goal Ball Teams
TSB Outstanding Male Athlete
Tim Tanner
Tim Jones
Congratulations to All!
Page 4
Forensics Team
Volume 3, Issue 10
Awards Day Honors 2014-15 Student Achievement
The following awards were presented during our
Awards Day Program:
Braille
Corban Galaviz
ADL Achiever/Best All Around Ishaque Kahn
LS-7 Most Improved Communication Fatima Martinez
Community and Honorary Awards
MAP-1 Most Improved
Mikayla Bouts
TN Chamber of Commerce- Alyssa Loggins
Citizenship
Nevaeh Valdes
Donelson-Hermitage Exchange Club
MAP-2
Most
Improved
Donnie
Sands/Muriel
Davis/
ACE Awards- Keundre Mason Carrie Carlisle
Christian
Herrera
Middle School Citizenship- Trenton Smith, Andre
Citizenship
Tederral Brooks/Kevin Giron/
Walker
Nathaniel Phipps/Brianna Swindall
Stones River Women’s Club
MAP-3 Most Improved
Ethan Hall
Poetry and Short Story Awards
Citizenship
Nehemiah Rembert
Scholarships
Academic Excellence
Cody Grissom
Tennessee Council of the Blind Braille Awards
MAP-4
Most
Improved
Sierra
Carreiro/Austin
Rogers
Braille Achievement Awards
Citizenship
TaMyah
Jordan/Austin
Rogers
Alumni Association of TSB Awards
T-MS-1 Most Improved Reading
Gertie Wisdom, English– Alyssa Loggins
Danny White/Miranda Bennett-Graham
J. M. Warren, Business- Holly Angel, Chris Cook
Most Improved
Margaret Hale, Braille- Elle Tuetken, Demi Richards
Woovens Scruggs/Jonathin Grissom
Esther Mae Davis, Library- Tim Jones
Citizenship
Barry Cannady/Andre Walker
B. P. Rice, Music- Carrie Carlisle
Trenton Smith
Tennessee School for the Blind Education Association T-MS-2 Reading Achievement
Vocabulary
Proficiency
Scott Jernigan
Freda Henderson Awards for Academic Excellence
Citizenship
Kevin Fink
Elementary Award- Sierra Carreiro
MS-1
Most
Improved
Johnny
Rodriguez-Torres
Middle School Award- Nathan Desmarais
Best All Around Student
Nathan Desmarais
High School Awards
MS-2 Most Improved
Tori Harrison
English- Corgan Waters, Alyssa Loggins
Best All Around Student
Adam Carpenter
Math- Corgan Waters
T-HS Most Improved
Keundre Mason
Science- Corgan Waters
Outstanding Student
Samantha Leech
Social Studies- Austin Mayes
BEST
Most
Improved
Emily Bowers
Valedictorian Award- Alyssa Loggins
“BEST”
all
around
student
Marcy Myatt
Salutatorian Award- Jacob Mitchell
Lions
Program
Worker
of
the
Year
Brooks
Gardner
TSB Special Achievement Awards
Science
Mark Mantooth Award- Fatima Martinez
Technology
Clarence Whaley Horizon Award- Tim Tanner
Consumer Math Most Improved
Morgan Burns
John Phillip Sousa Award- Brooks Gardner
Social Studies Outstanding Student
Carlos Medrano
APH Art Insights Calendar Artist- Elle Tuetken
Media Center Award for Excellence Craig Heggie
Creative Communication Publications
Speech/Language
Honor Roll List (Students making the honor roll at least once)
B. Swindall, R. Womack, J. Rodriquez, L. Phipps, B. Rock, Expanded Core (ECC)
Audrina Pray
E. Hall, T. Vera, K. Duke, K. Yarbrough, D. Burns, E. Har- O & M Life Skills O&M
Elementary O&M
Ethan Hall
ris, E. Bowers, H. Lewallen, M. Sullivan, K. Heinicke, G.
Middle School O&M
Johnny Rodriguez-Torres
Meeks, A. Pace, S. West, C. Carlisle, C. Spicer, L. RamTransition MS O&M
Trenton Smith
sey, M. Breland, T. Tanner, B. Wolfe, E. Tuetken, A. LogTransition HS O&M
Keundre Mason
gins, S. Owen, J. Mitchell, K. Painter, B. Gardner
Marcy Myatt
Principal’s List (Students making the honor roll first three quarters) BEST O&M
High
School
O&M
Mishon Breland
C. Herrera, D. Sands, M. Davis, S. Carreiro, A. Rogers,
Physical
Education
C.Grissom, K. Smith, L. Smith, N. Rembert, T. Jordan, A.
Life Skills
Adriel Cortez
Mayberry, N. Desmarais, A. Walker, B. Cannady, D. White,
Elementary
Nehemiah Rembert
J. Grissom, M. Bennett-Graham, W. Scruggs, K. Fink, R.
Middle/High
AJ Townsend
Haynes, S. Jernigan, S. Little, T. Smith, K. Mason, S.
Art
Elementary Artist of the Year
Muriel Davis
Leech, C. Thomas, M. Myatt, A. Williams, B. Shipley, C.
MS / HS Artists of the Year
Isabella Martinez/
Medrano, T. Grenier, A. Mayes, C. Tea, C. Waters, H. AnIsis Noneman /Tim Jones / Trenton Smith
gel, M. Burns, T. Jones
Music Most Improved Piano Student Alisha Geary
Classroom Teacher and Subject Area Awards
Most Outstanding Piano Students
Class Award
Recipient
Morgan Burns/Josiah Hearn
LS-6 Most Improved
Zach Lee
Friends of TSB and Lions Club of Middle TN
Most Improved Behavior
Alexa Culver
Page 5
STUDENTS & TEACHER
MOST OUTSTANDING
Roar of the Tiger
During a luncheon on May 14th, three
TSB students and a teacher received
honors. The event, at the Opryland Hotel and Resort, on Thursday May 14th,
was a way for students and teachers in
the “McGavock Cluster of Schools” to
receive recognition for their outstanding
accomplishments this school year. The
awards are sponsored by the DonelsonHermitage Chamber of Commerce
Gregory Harris
Nathan Desmarais
and the recipients were voted upon by
teachers from their school. In addition to
the honor, recognition, and certificates,
each winner received a gift card from
Zaxby’s restaurant. This year’s winners were: Life Skills Student- Gregory
Harris, Middle School Student- Nathan
Desmarais, High School StudentBrooks Gardner and Teacher- Allison
Conway. Congratulations!
Brooks Gardner
Allison Conway
Lions and Tigers Get Together for a Ride and a Song
Students in the TSB chorus were guests of the
Fairfield Glades Lions Club on 5/18/15. When
they arrived at the Lake Dartmoor Marina they
were treated to a boat ride. On the way back to
the dock a sudden rain shower gave them an unwanted shower, but thanks to the owners of the
boats being well prepared with umbrellas and
large towels everyone made out okay. When
everyone was back under the protection of the
dock porch PDG Keith Pontius, showing the
true spirit of Lionism giving, even donated some
of his dry tee shirts for the students.
After the boat ride the chorus and staff were
treated for a delicious dinner at the Legends restaurant, where the Lions Club held their meeting. After dinner Lion Ralph Brewer told a
short summary of how the Lions Club impacted
his life from childhood on. The chorus gave a
short performance and we boarded our nice
warm TSB bus heading back to school.
“It was a great trip and the Fairfield Glades
Lions were so very welcoming and generous to us.” said TSB choral director Judy
Denning. Those who went on the trip were
chorus members: Holly Angel, Leighton Ramsey, Morgan Burns, Lizzie Harris, Stephanie
Wilson, Lexie Williams, Carrie Carlisle, Demi
Richards, Emily Bowers, Kayla Heinicke, Elle
Tuetken, Abbey Pace, Brittany Wolfe, Justin
Reagan, Josiah Hearn, Brandt Shipley, and
Cody Thomas, also Lion/former TSB Superintendent Ralph Brewer, Lion/TSB Choral Director Judy Denning, TSB Nurse Tambra
Fore, and TSB Bus Driver "Captain" Bill Rotenberry.
Page 6
Volume 3, Issue 10
Johnny Joey On The Spot
While on his way to work early Tuesday morning
May 12th, Joe Gray witnessed a tractor-trailer
accident on Interstate 440 East. The truck overturned just prior to 6am while entering the interstate from the Nolensville Pike entrance. The police said the driver was merging onto I-440 from
Nolensville Pike when the trailer flipped,
causing the truck to block all three lanes of traffic
in the east direction. That’s when TSB’s, paraeducator and assistant coach, Joseph Gray,
sprang into action. Rushing towards the truck,
he climbed onto the overturned cab. Peering
through the door window he realized the driver
was still inside and injured. Joe assisted the driver in exiting the truck and getting out of harm’s
way. When they arrived, FOX News 17 and
News Channel 2 interviewed
Joe about his heroic actions.
He was deemed a “Good Samaritan” by several of the
news networks covering the accident. We are proud of Joe for
his heroic efforts and quick response in a crisis situation.
Once again Joe has displayed
Joe Gray
the commitment to help and the
outstanding character that we at the school have
come to know from him. Read More at: http://
www.fox17.com/news/features/top-stories/
stories/Ramp-to-I-440-EB-from-NolensvilleExpected-to-Remain-Closed-Until-Afternoon130030.shtml
Jazz Combo Perform at Murfreesboro Festival
The TSB Jazz Combo recently performed at the
Murfreesboro Main Street Jazz Fest. Their
1:00pm stage appearance on Saturday, May 2,
2015 was prime time for the festive outdoor celebration. This annual event in which local and national jazz talent is showcased, closes down the
city square and fills it up with music, food vendors and folks enjoying a really great time. Several area high school and middle school jazz ensembles performed during the festival.
The TSB Jazz Combo was again able to perform
this year. It was exciting to see the crew receive
a standing ovation for their superior performance!
Front Row- Justin Reagan, Brittany Wolfe, Josiah
Hearn, Row two- Brooks Gardner, Tim Tanner, Back
row- Nick Heggie and Joe Gregory
Graduates Have Bell Rung Sounding New Beginning
Holly Angel from Johnson City, Emily Bowers
from Moscow, Morgan Burns from Hendersonville, Chris Cook from Carthage, Brooks
Gardner from Talbott, Jesse Gimple from
Maryville, George Guerrero from Memphis,
Timothy Jones from Newport, Valedictorian
Alyssa Loggins from Memphis, Fatima Martinez from Franklin, Salutatorian Jacob Mitchell from Lexington, Marcy Myatt from Dickson, Stephen Owen from Memphis, Kayla
Painter from Old Hickory and Justin Reagan
from Westmorland.
(cont. from front cover)
Seniors Pulling Their Weight: (l to r) Emily Bowers, Marcy
Myatt, Justin Reagan, Morgan Burns, George Guerrero,
Jesse Gimple and Chris Cook. Alyssa Loggins in back
Page 7
Roar of the Tiger
MAP One Trip to Theatre Explores The Cat in the Hat
The Nashville Children’s Theater was the destination on May 6th for members of Deidree Atwell’s MAP1 class. The final
Above: Alyssa Meachen, Mikayla Boutz and Levi Dykes
play privy to the fact that Nevaeh Valdez and Naijyana
Hudgens have been framed.
theatre trip of the year found the
children attending a performance of The Cat in the Hat.
Although the book has been
in print for fifty-six years, it
hasn’t been until recently that a
stage version of the story was
created. The production was made possible
through the efforts of the National Theatre of
Britain. The 9:00am departure was taken by:
Mikayla Boutz, Michelle Davis, Levi Dykes,
Naijyana Hudgens, Alyssa Meachen, Titus
Sage, Nevaeh Valdes. Adults attending include: Deidree Atwell, Ruth Mason, Susan
Yarbrough.
Friend From the Mother Country Visits Class
Recently the MS-T2 students in Robin Bush’s
class received a taste of what life is like in England. Ms. Naomi Henry, a friend of Robin’s
who formally lived in London, has moved into the
Hermitage, TN. area. Ms. Henry became the
“British Ambassador” as she carried information
of the motherland to the inquisitive minds of the
students. Some of the questions included: Are
there blind people in England? Does England
have a blind school? Why do you drive on the
wrong side of the road, and why is the steering
wheel on the right side of the car? What kind of
food do you eat in England? What language do
they speak in London? Is there a KFC and a
McDonalds there? They also included
brailled/written questions to be asked of her.
Along with exciting stories and experiences, Naomi brought a
British flag, a
rose plant like
those found in
England, a
small replica of
a doubledecker bus
and of course
a replica of a
telephone
Students listen as Naomi Henry presents booth. Things
information about her homeland.
the students
studied
during the
week of
British
emphasis
was: the
Tower
Bridge,
the Tower
of London,
WestminPosing with their “new British friend” are:
ster,
Kaleb Duke, Scott Jernigan, Trenton Smith,
Sydney Little, Rachel Haynes, and Kaylee
BuckingYarbrough.
Ms. Naomi Henry is all smiles in
ham Palthe center of the picture.
ace, the
Houses of Parliament, Big Ben, double-decker
buses, and the royal family. The kids thought it
was cool that a flag is raised to fly above Buckingham Palace when the queen is there. Naomi brought some sparkling apple-grape juice
and cookies (she called them biscuits) to toast to
the new baby in the royal family. The students
have now added "cheerio," and "blimey" to their
vocabulary. They learned that fish and chips
means fish and fries, not fish and potato
chips. The students were so excited and were
totally fascinated by Naomi's accent and the
words that the British use which were words they
had never before heard.
Page 8
Volume 3, Issue 10
Field Day is Fun for Some and Pie in the Face for Others
On Tuesday, May 26, TSB cele
brated Field Day. Some events
initially scheduled for the “field”
were taken indoors to the gym
due to threatening weather.
Students participated in
events including races of:
Hula Hoop Step Through,
Dry Land Swim Race, Plunger/
Ball Pass, Freshman VS Sopho
mores Rope Pull and Trike Races. The winners were the students and staff able
to take a break from the hectic pace of school’s
last week. It was great fun to rub shoulders with
classmates and friends one last time before the
hands on the big graduation clock ticked to a
stop. It was also time to win a chance to cover
the face of your favorite staff member with a
huge cream filled pie!
Staff participating in the “pie in the face” event
include: Dr. Susan Brennan, Mr. Jim Oldham,
Mr. Nathan Travis, Dr. Tonja Dandy,
Dr. Marta Whittington,
Ms. Michelle Cormier,
Ms. Pauletta Frailey
and Mr. Joe Gray.
Left: Tim Jones and Chris
Cook race on Trikes Right:
Pauletta Frailey enjoys a pie
in the face courtesy of Abby
Claxton
End of Year Brings Excitement and Cheers
All stops were released from the “Fun
Machine” over the past month as mem
bers of the cottage life staff cranked up
the excitement and activities for the
end of the school year! May 6th
brought the flavor of Mexico to
campus with the celebration of
Cinco de Mayo. That afternoon the Life Skills Center
(LSC) was hopping like a
kitchen in a Mexican restaurant.
The students’ imaginative juices were unleashed
on the task of making sombreros. The festive
hats were to be fashioned using a brown paper
bag. Creative ideas ran rampant from the bag
being rolled up and contorted into the body of a
hat to the bag being cut into the shape of chips
to be used on the hat. A great time was had by
all and especially the boys of cottage seven.
They took the first place prize which consisted of
their choice of a Red Box Movie in the theatre
room along with popcorn and cookies.
Wednesday May 20th brought 2013 TSB alumnus Ben Waddell to campus to share his musical
entertainment skills. The after dinner gig was
complete with snacks and refreshments for the
attendees. Current TSB student and Jazz Combo member Brittany Wolfe joined Ben in
some great sounding harmony.
On Thursday May 21st a “mini prom” took place
for the kids not old enough to participate in the
junior senior prom. Generous Youth Service
Workers contributed a variety of food for enjoyment. LCS rooms were decorated with balloons and streamers. Lots of dancing and laughter, especially as Dean Cormier and the staff
danced with the kids. Mr. Oldham and several
staff dropped in and accelerated the fun.
A Memorial Day/End of Year Bash finished out
the recreational events for the year on May 25th.
The grill and cookout came with all the trappings
expected to elevate the excitement level and
scatter the quiet moments for reflection and reminiscing. There will be plenty of moments later for
soaking in the memories. Now was the time to
create the memories by becoming soaked! A giant waterslide erected outside of the LSC sent
kids tumbling and sliding through the water on
the warm afternoon. Sno-cones assisted in keeping things
cool as
everyone enjoyed
getting
tattoos and joining in
the
games. Now
that’s
how
you
bring
things
to an
end.
Top Left: Photo of a sombrero created by Cottage One
Above: Ben Waddell and Brittany Wolfe harmonize.
Page 9
Roar of the Tiger
TSB Staff on the Run
While many of the TSB students and staff were
tucked snug in their beds on the morning of Saturday April 25th, this was not the case for four
staff members “on the run”! The run we speak
of, of course, was the now infamous St. Jude
Country Music Marathon & Half Marathon. Attracting runners from all over the country and many locations across the world, TSB
staffers felt fortunate to have the run in their own
back yard. This year witnesses over 27,000 runners competing in the 2015 Country Music Full
and Half Marathons. The races began in
downtown Nashville outside of the Bridgestone
Arena. The runners would pass several iconic landmarks and attractions in Music City as
they traveled through the blocked
off streets and avenues. Sites included the Schermerhorn Symphony Center and the many
historic buildings on Music Row.
The journey for the runners
ended at LP Field. Competing
from TSB this year in the half
marathon were Ms. Tracy
Bettencourt and Ms. Michelle
Cormier. Opting to run the full
marathon were Ms. Christina
von Reyn and Mr. JoTracy Bettencourt poses
seph Gray. Way to go
in tee shirt and Medals
the distance guys!
from the Half Marathon
Annual Gathering Attracts Alumni From Far and Wide
On Friday, May 29, TSB
Alumni from across the
nation returned to the
campus of their alma mater to participate in the
annual alumni weekend.
This much anticipated tradition began ninety-five years ago and somewhat
resembles a huge family reunion.
The Alumni Association of the Tennessee
School for the Blind (AATSB) was established in 1920 with the express purpose of promoting the interest of the school, its alumni, and
the blind in general. Except for two years during
World War II, the alumni have held an annual
meeting at the Tennessee School for the Blind
the week-end immediately following graduation.
Goals of the AATSB include the following:
Serve as advocates of the Tennessee School for
the Blind by generating invaluable word-of
-mouth marketing among social and professional networks;
Serve as role models for current students by
providing them with the benefit of life skills
and experience and by offering practical support as they start their careers;
Financially support educational programs for current students at the Tennessee School for the
Blind;
Serve as the principle link between the Tennes-
see School for the Blind and its worldwide
network of alumni;
Promote a shared spirit among alumni, students,
faculty, staff and administration through projects that benefit the school and by engendering in the students a sense of pride and loyalty to the Tennessee School for the Blind; and,
Serve as ambassadors of the Tennessee School
for the Blind by sharing abilities,
knowledge, and independence with communities, hometowns, and in professional and
social networks.
Additional TSB Alumni information can be found
at the following link: http://www.tsbtigers.org/
TSB/Alumni/Alumni_home.htm
An award given each year during Alumni Weekend is the
Ralph A. Brewer Leadership Award. Above are some recipients (L-R-Front) Margaret Riegel, Judy Denning, Linda
Dykes, (Back-L-R) Jim Oldham, John Harris, Ralph Brewer,
James Breeden, Frank Alexander, and Ricky Williams.
Page 10
Volume 3, Issue 10
TSB Alumnus to Be Inducted into Hall of Fame Class of 2015
(The following is a reprint of excerpts received from
an email.)
Sir Francis Campbell and Dr. Alan Koenig to
be Inducted into the Hall of Fame for Leaders
and Legends of the Blindness Field in 2015
The Hall of Fame is dedicated to preserving the
tradition of excellence manifested by specific individuals through the history of outstanding services provided to people who are blind or visually
impaired in North America. Although housed at
the American Printing House for the Blind (APH)
in Louisville, Kentucky, it belongs to the entire
field. The ceremony to induct Campbell and
Koenig, will take place on Friday evening, October 9, 2015, in conjunction with APH's 147th
Annual Meeting of
Ex Officio Trustees and Special
Guests, at the Hyatt Regency Hotel
in Louisville, Kentucky. Joining the
fifty-four outstanding legends previously inducted, are
these two remarkable figures who
changed lives
around the world.
Their stories of accomplishment are
Sir Francis Campbell
powerful.
Francis Joseph Campbell 1832 - 1914
Sir Francis Campbell’s service began as a
music teacher and interim Superintendent of the
Tennessee School for the Blind in 1850. He
then served as a music teacher and special assistant to Dr. Samuel Gridley Howe at the Perkins School for the Blind from 1857 to 1868.
In 1872, he established the Royal Normal College and Academy of Music for the Blind
(RNC) in London where he served as Principal until retirement in 1912. His school was
built on the belief that blind people can accomplish great things with good instruction. He built
a firm base of physical education and provided
strong academic training with an emphasis on
logic and mathematics as a basis for music instruction. Campbell’s school was enormously
successful. Today it is known as the Royal National College and continues to receive
awards for its status as an extremely effective
school and training program for people who are
blind.
“Francis Campbell
Sir Francis Campwas the character
bell’s service began
and personality on
as a music teacher
which modern work
for the blind
and interim Superinhinged. After Howe,
tendent of the Tenhe was the undoubtnessee School for
ed champion of the
capabilities of blind
the Blind in 1850.
people, both by his
own example, his demands on himself and what
he asked of other blind people and society.” C.
Warren Bledsoe
“His approach was based on a realistic understanding of what was capable without vision and
on a strong belief in the ability of blind people to
function independently. He demonstrated the
value of educating the whole child. He understood the need to encourage the development of
the physical, intellectual, and emotional sides of
each individual. And he appreciated the need for
functional life skills that lead to jobs that enabled
independence. By including Francis Campbell in
our Hall of Fame, we will not only honor his work,
but we will create an opportunity for future professionals in this field to be influenced by his insights and success.” Dr. Richard Welsh
Additional information regarding (Dr. Alan
Koenig and) the 2015 Hall of Fame Induction
Ceremony will soon appear on the APH website, www.aph.org. Visit the Hall of Fame website
at http://www.aph.org/hall_fame/index.html for
information on the Hall and those inducted.
Questions? Please contact Janie Blome, Hall
Curator, at 800/223-1839, ext. 367 or
[email protected].
Hall of Fame: Leaders and Legends of the Blindness Field is a project of the entire field of blindness, curated by the American Printing House for
the Blind, a 501(c)(3) tax-exempt organization.
Page 11
Roar of the Tiger
Spring, A Time for Poetry
I've Made It by Jesse Gimple
This reminds me of who I miss,
this my younger past days.
In my maze.
The many ways to accomplish
goals.
Those other souls who must learn
for themselves.
Bur your own mind should remember
to pour more of your knowledge
to smaller people that your self.
Isolation by Demi Richards
Do you catch yourself thinking
who am I, where am I, and what
am I doing?
Who are these people, where are
they from
and what do they want from me?
Whenever you try to speak to them
it just doesn’t come out for them to
hear
only God and yourself hear it.
You see or hear around you
people who trust each other and are friends.
While you sit out on the side
wishing and thinking
I want to trust people and have friends
and giggle, instead of frown.
It makes me feel
like I am drowning in my own puddle of tears.
First Breath of Spring by Abbey Pace
The First Breath of Spring
The sun rises like an angel from
the heavens.
The sun makes himself a stranger
to no one.
The sun kind and friendly to everyone to whom he meets.
The sun warming every body's
day with a smile
The sun spreading love to all hearts
The sun shining bright and glowing peacefully
The sun making life full
The sun, the face of God beaming down from
above.
The flowers, delicate daisies, elegant roses,
violet violets, and fragile lilies
The flowers, delicate stability
The flowers, natures triumph of elegance
The flowers, as gently violet and beautiful as
the Holy Father intended.
The first Breath of spring.
That Place by Nick Heggie
There once was a place where I
was happy
Where I could play all day
Where the world wasn’t moving
in such a fast pace
I once had that place
That place
Now that place has disappeared
Leaving me in doubt of this world
The only thing keeping going is when I remember
I once had that place
That place
Spring Beauty by Taylor Grenier
The birth of all natures beauty
starts with spring
Spring is the time for recreation
Everything dies and is reborn
That is what Spring is for.
The scent of flowers and nature
drifts through the air
The emerald green grass sways
lazily to and fro
The breeze blows as gentle as a baby’s breath
The flower petals are as smooth as velvet
The sent they give off is sweet, clean, and intoxicating.
The sun shines bright as a diamond
It creates pools of liquid gold on the sidewalks
and grass
It encases everything in a shiny sheen
Cascades of water falling gold shines down
from above
Spring is the time for new chances
New beginnings
New creations… A new beauty.
Page 12
Volume 3, Issue 10
TSB Music Program Displays Diverse Talent
Music is always in the air at TSB. And with spring
in full bloom and summer break on the way, this
time of the year just adds more to sing about. The
2015 Spring Music Program “erupted into full
bloom” on Friday morning May 15, 2015. Music
teacher Georgette Seay began the program by
introducing the LS 1,2 &3 classes. With the assistance of teachers, para educators and companions, they presented their version of Rainbows
Rock. Mrs. Seay then introduced the Map 1,2,3
and Transition MS 1 &2 classes. For many weeks
they had been hard at work in preparation for the
presentation of an anti-bullying program entitled No
Bullies! Get Real! Arranged by Robert Emerson
and directed by Georgette, the program featured
the following songs from various decades.
Wooly Bully, and Nowhere ManBullies included: Brian Rock, Rylan Wom
ack, Muriel Davis, Lathaniel Phipps,
Donnie Sands Victims were: Nevaeh Val
des, Naijyana Hudgens, Sierra Carreiro,
Levi Dykes
Change the World and Unwritten- Solos by:
Woovens Scruggs and Kaylee Yarbrough
Lean On Me
The combined classes of Ms. Blevins,
Ms. Morris,
and
Mr. Hector (Life Skills 5, 6 & 7) performed cute
renditions of the following songs:
Stubby, the Giraffe Who Wouldn’t Take Chances
He’s Got the Whole World in His Hands
This Little Light of Mine
Between the various transitions of musical groups
the TSB Jazz Combo performed. Their numbers
included: God Bless The Child, Freddie Freeloader,
and Don’t Know Why
The TSB Elementary Band performed versions of
Carnival of Venice and The Billboard.
The TSB Tiger Band followed up with their performances of Game Of Thrones and Dynamo.
Judy Denning led the High School Chorus in
singing: I’m Gonna Sing and Shout, United We
Stand, Dona Nobis Pacem (Give us Peace), Let
There Be Peace on Earth (duet by: Carrie Carlisle
and Kayla Painter), Witness (trio by: Carrie Carlisle, Morgan Burns and Brittany Wolfe), Angels
Watchin’ Over Me (trio by: Carrie Carlisle, Stephanie Wilson and Brittany Wolfe) I’d Like to Teach
the World to Sing and God Bless the U.S.A. (solos
by: Kayla Painter and Justin Reagan) The performance was streamed live and is still available for
your enjoyment from the sch- ool website located at www.tsbtigers.org.
Performing with the TSB Tiger Band during the program are: (L to R) Taylor Grenier, Nick Heggie, Carlos Medrano, Allyssa
Loggins, Garrett Meeks, Miranda Sullivan, Mishon Breland and Patrick Anderson
Page 13
Roar of the Tiger
Student Art Explosion Creates Beauty All Around
Sometimes walking the halls of Tennessee
School for the Blind one could easily believe
they have entered The Donelson Area School of
Art. The artistic expressions on display are
so varied and impressive that they quite often
stop those passing, affording them a grander
view. Throughout the school year the student
have many avenues to showcase their talents in
forms of art from paintings to pottery, yet the
spring display often has the most variety. The
TSB Art Exhibit and Sale was held on
Wednesday, May 27th. Taking place in the
school auditorium The sale began at 9:00am
and went through the afternoon. The exhibit coincided with the Spring Music Program. Works of
art were on display from elementary grades
through high school. The exhibit featured graduating senior artists Tim Jones, Stephen Owen,
Emily Bowers, Jesse Gimple, and Marcy
Myatt. In addition to the wonderful expressions seen at the exhibit, art teacher Monica
Leister has also had the students involved
with a joint project with Middle Tennessee State
University (MTSU). Both the TSB middle and
high school students have worked on various
stages of the "Big Adventure" Claymation project. This project was a collaboration of both the
MTSU art education student teachers under
Dr. Debrah
Sickler-Voight and the
TSB art
department. For TSB it
was our
first experience creating
a stopmotion Claymation animation project.
According to Monica, “It
has been a
wonderful learning experience that
combined the creative
minds
and talents of all
grade levels
here at TSB.
The students
were very
excited from
the beginning
to the end to
create this
short film.”
The elemen
tary and mid-
Left: Senior Tim Jones displays his fish project. Top:
Cody Grissom works with a MTSU student to create
text. Middle: Letarian Smith works on the set.
dle school students developed story boards
and the characters. They also created the
backdrops and recorded their voices. The high
school students had to interpret what the others had done and create the characters out of
clay and then film
frame by frame the
entire story. Talk
about something creative and artistic that
uncovers the talents
of our kids, this is it!
Follow the link below
and you’ll surprisingly
see an explosion of
creativity.
Link : You tube
TN
School for the Blind
Claymation or https://
Taylor Grenier and Corgan
www.youtube.com/
Water
work on the details of
watch?
forming the character out of
v=h2IQmnvYmF0
clay.
Page 14
Volume 3, Issue 10
Now, Just How Dense is That?
Density was the question circulating in the minds
of TSB’s third and fourth grade science class
during May. Their reading of the book I Survived
the Sinking of the Titanic led them into exploring densities at their water table. The students learned that the Titanic had air pockets
which helped to make it more buoyant. The
massive ship had been built in a way to enable it
to stay afloat even if four of these air pockets
were damaged. Unfortunately when the ship,
turned ice breaker, rammed the colossal iceberg,
six of it’s pockets were damaged. Air began
bubbling to the surface and the rest is history…
or should we
say science. The young
TSB scientist created their own toy
boats. Mrs. Lisa
Salvato
made an
iceberg,
that was
about a
foot tall
and
wide, and
placed it in
the water
Above: KeAunte Smith, Letarian Smith, Mrs. Salvato, Carreiro Sierra and TaMyah Jordon at the water table.
table. The class had learned that icebergs drift to
warmer waters where they melt. The students
observed how long the iceberg took to melt. “We
knew it was above 80 degrees that day. The iceberg took a little over 10 minutes to melt.” said
Lisa. The students also noted that the temperature of the water in the lower table where the
iceberg had been was a lot colder than the water
in the upper table where it was warm. We referred to the upper table as the Caribbean and
the lower table as the Arctic. “We also did a sink
or float density test.” said Mrs. Salvato.
“We made predictions regarding a toothpick,
cork, coin, and metal spoon. The students understood that the more dense an object is, the
more likely it is to sink. They also came to understand that density is not the same thing as
weight.” Like the Titanic, ships weigh a lot, but
are still able to float because of air pockets that
make it less dense than the water. This was also
the aspect to understand with the cork. The students showed off what they had learned to Dr.
Dandy. “They really enjoyed this activity and
were learning at the same time!” said Lisa “I’d
like to express my thanks to everyone who
played a part in allowing this to happen.” Now I
guess you could say that this is an educational
experience that is good enough to “float your
boat”… unless your boat is called Titanic!
Graduates Bid Farewell In Evening Concert
The TSB seniors bid everyone farewell through
music the evening before graduation. In a concert streamed live from the school auditorium,
the 6:30pm performance on Thursday May 28th
included the following:
Alyssa Loggins: The Star Spangled Banner
TSB Jazz Combo (Nick Heggie, Brittany
Wolfe, Justin Reagan, Josiah Hearn, Brooks
Gardner, Tim Tanner) performed: Freddie
Freeloader, The Shadow of Your Smile and God
Bless the Child
TSB Tiger Band w/TSB Middle School Band
performed: Game of Thrones, The Billboard,
Your Mind is on Vacation
TSB Chorus performed: I’d Like to Teach the
World to Sing, One Single Voice- soloist Carrie
Carlisle, Josiah Hearn and accompanist Morgan Burns The Rose- song by graduating senior, Kayla Painter Awesome God- Soloist, Demi
Richards (dedicated to graduating senior,
Holly Angel) Holy Spirit- song by graduating
senior, Morgan Burns Go With a Song in Your
Heart- narrator Brittany Wolfe Angels Watchin’
Over Me- trio of Carrie Carlisle, Stephanie Wilson and Brittany Wolfe I’m Goin’ Home- soloist, Carrie Carlisle and God Bless the U.S.A.soloist, graduating senior Justin Reagan.
The last musical performance of the year, and
for the graduating seniors always proves to be
enjoyable and full of emotion. If you missed it
you’ll want to catch the rerun available from the
school website, www.tsbtigers.org.
Page 15
Roar of the Tiger
TSB Staff in the Spotlight
Mitchell Delk
Mitch Delk has a rich and rewarding position
at TSB. As Physical Therapist, Mr. Delk has the
opportunity to see students achieve greater mobility, and consequently, a greater chance for
success in life. Unlike other physical therapists,
who may see a client only as long as a doctor
prescribes or as long as insurance allows, “I
have the opportunity to see my clients for a year.
That’s the best thing about being at TSB,” he
said. Mr. Delk currently has about 25 students
whom he sees throughout the week. Although
any achievement a student
makes is a cause for celebration, he is especially proud of
the four students in his charge
since 2006, who walked across
the stage to receive their diplomas – students who were never
supposed to walk again. “I love
my job,” said Mr. Delk.
At the outset, Mr. Delk wasn’t
Mitchell Delk
sure he wanted to be at TSB,
especially when Jim Oldham, then Superintendent, pestered him on his honeymoon to consider a position at the school! Mr. Oldham had received a call from an acquaintance recommending Mr. Delk, who had diligently worked with the
man’s son for a year. After 15 years of not being
able to, the son had learned to walk. “Mr. Oldham was pretty insistent,” said Mr. Delk. “ He
asked me to not say no until I visited the school.
I was very impressed with everything I saw. This
is a therapist’s dream job. I’m so glad I didn’t say
no.”
Mr. Delk was set on being a phys. ed. teacher
and earned his teaching degree from Tennessee
Tech University. Having been a medic in the
army, he realized he could combine his
knowledge and love of teaching/coaching together with physical therapy to create the perfect
job. He earned his Master’s degree in Physcial
Therapy from the University of Findlay in Ohio
and came to TSB in 2006.
When not at TSB, Mr. Delk continues his love
of sport with his children Derrin, 22; Kayla and
Danielle, 15; and Zander, 13. He likes playing
Page 16
sports and is involved in coaching – everything:
gymnastics, football, baseball, swimming, cheerleading, soccer… Another favorite hobby is
ocean fishing. “When you fish in the ocean you
never know what you’re going to catch,” he said,
noting that his trophies have included a shark
bigger than he was, a 4 foot stingray, and a 40
lb. Amberjack. As a child, he would fish with his
dad off a pier in Mobile, Alabama. “Sometimes,
I’d stay out all night – my mother would bring
breakfast to me in the morning,” he said. Both of
Mr. Delks parents are avid fishermen.
A native of Monterey, Tennessee (Putnam
County), Mr. Delk now lives in Hendersonville
with his wife, Traci, their children and two fourlegged “children,” Tawny, an 8-year old Boxer
mix, and Holly, a feisty little 14-year old Pomeranian. (Tawny used to be Ms. Seay’s dog!) Mr.
Delk has owned 23 dogs over his lifetime. “ I
like to get mutts – usually the runt of the litter –
and build up their confidence. I have an affinity
for runts, as I was the runt of my own family,” he
said with a smile. Both his brothers are significantly taller than he is.
One thing you might not know about Mr. Delk –
he has been the same height since 8th grade!
Tanya Coleman
You hardly ever see Ms. Tanya Coleman without
a huge smile – in fact, she might be one of the
most chipper individuals on campus!
Educational Assistant (EA) to Ms. Robin Bush,
Ms. Coleman has been at TSB a little over a
year. Prior to coming to TSB, she was an EA
with the Metro school district. “I was really interested in learning Braille. When the opportunity
came to apply at TSB, I jumped
at the chance,” she said. “Now,
I’m helping the children learn it. I
am so grateful to be here.” The
best thing about TSB said Ms.
Coleman is the students!
“Each one is unique and I love
working with them. I’ve also enjoyed being with all the staff and
meeting so many wonderful new
people.”
In addition to helping the stuTanya Coleman
Volume 3, Issue 10
TSB Staff in the Spotlight (cont.)
dents with Braille, Ms. Coleman also assists the
children in Phys. Ed., art, at lunch and various
other activities. Last year she assisted in the
Summer Evaluation Program and Summer
Camp as well. Ms. Coleman is an extremely
active person. When not at TSB she can be
found doing any number of outdoor activities including tennis, biking on Nashville’s Greenway,
walking, boating, jet skiing, and even “mudding”
– four wheeling through the mud and the muck!
All of these outdoor sports bring her together
with friends, which she very much enjoys. Another sport, Ms. Coleman is eager to try – something on her bucket list – is skydiving! “I just want
to try it! I want to experience that sensation of
flying,” she said. “I dream about it!”
It’s not surprising that Ms. Coleman has such an
adventurous spirit – she has five sons! Marcus,
34, is married to Lequisha, a wonderful daughter
in-law; Bryan, 27; David, 22; and still at home,
Tyler and Jonathan, 17 and 14 respectively.
There are other young men in the Coleman
household – six grandsons! Fortunately there are
also two granddaughters to help balance out the
bunch!
A Nashville native, Ms. Coleman is a graduate of
McGavock High School. She now lives in
Smyrna, Rutherford County.
There is one thing you might not know about Ms.
Coleman. In addition to wearing fast-track
shoes for all of her extracurricular sports noted
above, she is equally adept in a pair of heels cutting a rug out on the dance floor! Since 2013,
Ms. Coleman has been enjoying Saturday
night dances at Dance World in Nashville. Dance
World offers an hour lesson and a night of
ballroom dancing for under $20. Her favorite
dance is the Salsa!
Tom Gentry
Tom Gentry, Security Officer, can often be
seen zipping around campus in one of TSB’s golf
carts, opening gates, assisting vendors, helping
students. Of course, he has all the other security
responsibilities as well – maintaining a watchful
eye and monitoring activity across campus, safeguarding the school. Mr. Gentry started at TSB
as a house parent, but after volunteering to help
the security desk when they were short staffed,
he quickly found himself in his current position.
Mr. Gentry enjoyed his year as a houseparent. “You really get attached to some of the students,” he said. “I really like the security position
and consider that I now have the best of both
worlds – a great job and I get to see the kids
every day. The kids really are the best thing
about working at TSB.” He has also enjoyed the
“good people” at TSB. “The staff is wonderful; I
really enjoy helping people out.”
Mr. Gentry recalls having seniors Brooks
Gardner and George Guerrero in the cottage
years ago. “They were little then. Brooks was a
feisty little fellow when he came to TSB. But I
look at the young man he has become and I am
so proud of him. After I made the switch to security, George was up here nearly every day bugging me to come back. I will miss them both after
graduation.”
Mr. Gentry was no stranger to TSB as his
son, Josh, was a student here. Josh and Joe
Gray were classmates. “ One thing about Joe
– if you told him he couldn’t do something, he’d
do his best to show you he could,” said Mr. Gentry with a laugh. Shortly after Josh’s graduation, the Gentrys saw Mr. Oldham, who asked
Mr. Gentry to sign on at TSB.
Josh encouraged him saying,
“You’d be good at it, Dad.” The
rest is history.
From a hardworking Nashville
family, Mr. Gentry learned the
value of a dollar early on. He has
retired numerous times, but always returns to the workforce in
some capacity, because he likes
Tom Gentry
people and keeping busy.
Prior to joining the staff at TSB, Mr. Gentry
spent 20 years with American Airlines in multiple
roles: air freight, ticket counter representative,
operations, supervisor of fleet services, and
sales, filling a $2.7 million quota. In the sales
arena, Mr. Gentry traveled all over the U.S. “ It
was a great job, but got to be a little too hectic
as the company continually expanded my territory.” The time he spent away didn’t (cont. on pg.19)
Page 17
Roar of the Tiger
HOLLYWOOD
Here We Come!
Junior Senior Prom
Allyssa Loggins / Tim Tanner
Brooks Gardner / Shelby West
George Gurrrero / Chris Cook
Yes, they do… the stars come
out at night! That surely was the
case on the evening of Thursday
May 21st. The TSB juniors and
seniors, and their guest, celebrated the evening with dinner at
McNamara's before returning
as the “stars” on their own Hollywood set! The campus gym and
adjoining hall were decked out
with all of the symbols of the town
of glitter. The huge marque above
the door read 2015 TSB Prom.
As the large sparkling ball spun
sparkles throughout the room, the
stars danced the night away.
Holly Angel
Elle Teutken / Justin Reagan
Jesse Gimple
Kayla Heinicke / Josiah Hearn
Aaron Patrick / Emily Bower
Ashley Desmarais / Jacob Mitchell
Jose Martinez / Fatama Martinez
Morgan Burns / Chamroeun Tea
Patrick Anderson / Miranda Sullivan
Katie Garapic / Stephen Owens
Dr. Brennen and daughters
King Gardner / Queen Loggins
Page 18
Volume 3, Issue 10
Refined Talent Displayed at Spring Solo Recital
Alexanderia Williams
Christian Black
Hope
If you missed the 2015 TSB Spring Solo Recital
you missed the following:
Alexa Culver- Hot Cross Buns (piano)
Samantha Leech- The Rose (piano)
Miranda Sullivan- Mary Had a Little Lamb
Stephanie Wilson- Colors of the Wind (vocal)
Tori Harrison- Bella’s Lullaby
TaMyah Jordon- A Friend Like You ‘
Alexandria Williams- Overture (piano)
Elle Tuetken- Bridge Over Troubled Water
Hope Monzalvo- Quiet River
Alisha Geary- Arkansas Traveler
Brittany Wolfe- The Elevator
Carrie Carlisle- Dreamscape
Demi Richards- Lord I Lift Your Name on High
Christian Black- Overture (piano)
Alexandria Williams- Caro Mio Bien (vocal)
Abbey Pace- Plaisir d’Amour (The Joy of Love)
Alyssa Loggins- Pachelbel, Canon in D Arranged by A. Loggins
Brittany Wolfe- Losing My Mind (vocal)
Morgan Burns- Schubert, Impr. Op. 90, No. 2
Josiah Hearn- Rubenstein, Melody in F
Carrie Carlisle- Somewhere (vocal)
Josiah Hearn
Demi Richardson
Morgan Burns
TSB Staff in the Spotlight (cont.)
seem fair to the family he’d left back in Lebanon. Still, the airlines proved an interesting
time for Mr. Gentry. He met a number of famous
people including Elvis Presley, the Gatlin Brothers, Jackie Robinson, John Ritter, J.R.
Ewing, Ed McMahon, and Johnny Carson. A
few of them personally thanked him for the help
he had provided. When not at TSB, Mr. Gentry
enjoys spending time with his wife, Joyce, four
children: Josh, Jesse, Jennifer and Justin,
and the seven grandchildren. He likes car
shows, flea markets, listening to the “oldies but
goodies” like Buddy Holly and Elvis, and has an
impressive LP collection. He’s fond of movies:
Westerns and action films, but love stories…
not so much. One thing you might not know
about Mr. Gentry, is that he had a rare brush
with history. While working at an American Airlines gate, Mr. Gentry was alerted by the
ticket counter that a passenger, suitcase in
hand, was running through the airport toward
his gate. The breathless man arrived and wanted to immediately board the plane that was
about to depart for Washington, D.C. “We made
him stop,” said Mr. Gentry, and a check of the
suitcase revealed not one but two guns! Security arrived, took the man into custody and wrangled him to the local police station. However,
Nevaeh
Valdezrewith nothing to hold the man on, he was
leased, came back to the airport and boarded
another plane bound for D.C. Mr. Gentry didn’t
think too much more about it, until a few days
later when he saw the same man on a newscast. An assassination attempt on newly elected
President Ronald Regan had just occurred.
John Hinkley Jr., the would-be assassin was
the same man that had passed through Mr.
Gentry’s gate bound for D.C. “ It kind of gives
you chills to think you were that close to someone like that,” said Mr. Gentry.
Page 19
Creating Contributing Participating Members of Society
TENNESSEE SCHOOL FOR THE BLIND
Friends Shoot... Friends Score!
As the Nashville Predators were on the ice extending their regular season in pursuit of the
Stanley Cup, off the ice they were exercising
their big hearts through charitable giving. Nashville’s NHL contenders have built quite the
reputation of giving back to the community.
Funds are channeled through the Nashville Predators Foundation. Because of the diligent
and tedious grant application work on the part of
Friends of TSB (FTSB), the students at Tennessee School for the Blind are once again
rewarded. Chosen from over 300 applications
considered, the Predators scored a goal in the
hearts of the TSB Tiger Goal Ball Team members by making TSB their selection. The $6,368
awarded through the grant process will be used
towards the purchase of new goal ball equipment
at the school for the blind and visually impaired.
The Tuesday May 5th, check presentation ceremony was at the Bridgestone Arena. “Thanks to
the Predators grant we are able to purchase aluminum goal ball goals. This means the goals will
be sturdy and last longer. We are also able to
purchase new goggles for the boys and girls
teams,” said coach Andy Joiner. In October the
Tiger girls team won first place during the
2014 NCASB Goal Ball Competition. The
Tiger boy’s team finished a respectable third.
115 Stewarts Ferry Pike
Nashville, TN 37214
Phone: 615-231-7300
Tennessee School for the Blind is a state special
school established in 1844 to meet the unique needs
of visually impaired students living in the state of Tennessee. The school provides academic and professional services tailored to benefit students placed in
its care through the Local Education Agencies across
the state. Beyond a tradition of academics, TSB specializes in the instruction of expanded core-curricular
areas such as Braille, Mobility, Technology, Career
Education, and Independent Living Skills. Students at
the school also enjoy the opportunity to participate in
team sports, campus clubs, organizations and many
leisure-time activities. In addition the school provides
outreach services to visually challenged students, their
parents, teachers, schools and other agencies assisting the visually challenged.
Attending the presentation ceremony at the home of the
Predators are: left to right Ralph Brewer, Pat Galvin, senior
Chris Cook, senior Alyssa Loggins and TSB Goal Ball
Coach Patrick Hector
Upcoming Events Calendar
F
May 29
Graduation / Last Day of School
TSB Auditorium
M-Tu
June 1-2
Teacher Organization Days
TSB
M-F
July 5-10
Elementary / Portfolio Camp
TSB
M-F
July 12-24
Middle - High School Enrichment Camp
TSB
Su
Aug. 9
2015 Parent Student Registration
TSB
M
Aug. 10
2015 First Day of Classes
TSB