Raceland Senior Spotlight: Matilda Martin

Raceland Senior Spotlight: Matilda Martin

Jarrod Stephens

Ashland Beacon  

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For some high school graduates their journey begins and ends within the same district. For others, they make their mark in a much shorter time. Such is the case for Raceland-Worthington senior, Matilda Martin. Matilda came to Raceland at the beginning of her freshman year and has enjoyed her four years as a Ram. 

Despite having an injury that ended her cheerleading career, Matilda didn't let that get in the way of being a leader in her class. While attending Raceland Matilda was a member of the Future Business Leaders of America (FBLA) but most enjoyed being part of the yearbook staff. "Yearbook class allows me to support my school by creating a record of the school year that will be cherished for years to come," she said. 

 

Matilda has worked alongside the office staff as an aide, which she hopes is a springboard for her future endeavors. She stated, "I enjoy the opportunities that I've had to support my school. I have been an office aide for this school year and have enjoyed running errands and being able to assist the staff whenever I am needed." 

Matilda has been most grateful for the support of staff members at the high school. Most notably she praised the support of Coach Mike Salmons, Michelle Rogers, Courtney Sammons and Counselor Andrea Coldiron. "I also loved going to the “Young Women Lead” conference at Ashland Community and Technical College with Mrs. Coldiron and the girls in my graduating class. It was an empowering experience."

When asked what stood out about Matilda, Mrs. Coldiron said, “Matilda is a charming young lady who is intelligent, outgoing and I am confident that she will be successful in her future.”

When not at school Matilda enjoys taking care of her family pets. She especially enjoys take care of her dog that needs specialized care since he is a senior dog who is blind. "He has been my best friend since preschool; we grew up together and I cherish the time we have with him," Matilda said.

She continued, "I also like to attend sporting events for local schools. I am a passionate shopaholic. I love style and everything fashion: clothes, hair, accessories, and makeup. I was even selected by my peers as “Best Dressed” for senior superlatives." 

Becoming a successful senior also takes a supporting cast at home and Matilda stated her gratitude for being her biggest fans. "My mom, dad, mamaw, and papaw have all helped me be successful. My whole family is very supportive and attend anything and everything I pursue. They’ve been my biggest fans through everything."

Matilda is graduating College and Career Ready since successfully passing the Career and Technical Education exam for Consumer and Family Services. In the future, Matilda plans to work as a receptionist in a medical office to gain experience in the field and then enroll in the Medical Information Technology program at Ashland Community and Technical College. 

Good luck, and may God bless you Matilda Martin as you pursue your dreams. 

Fairview’s Jarvis Expresses Leadership, Ventures to Change the World with Kindness

Fairview’s Jarvis Expresses Leadership, Ventures to Change the World with Kindness

Sonya Newman

Ashland Beacon

 ZANE JARVIS

Leaders are those who create an environment where others thrive because they have blazed a path that can be followed.  Leadership is a valuable asset for a young man who is a member of Key Club, Random Acts of Kindness, the Homecoming King, a Postsecondary Ready Senior, and Class President. That leadership is evident in all those ways and much more in Fairview Class of 2023 President, Zane Jarvis. 

 

“To me, graduating is a whole mix of emotions. One minute I’m super excited that I’m moving forward and reaching this milestone in my life, but at the same time it’s bittersweet knowing that these last few days are the last times I’ll have with my class as a whole,” Jarvis admitted.

Jarvis has left a lasting impression on Fairview, but the small school has also left a huge impression on him.  Jarvis explained, “The best thing about Fairview is that the faculty and staff actually get to connect with each and every student individually. “In most bigger schools, it’s hard for a student to find that connection with a teacher or staff member.  Fairview really takes pride in being a small school and that’s something that will never be broken.”

His favorite memories include time in his fourth period English class. Jarvis shared, “Every day in Mr. Lounsberry’s class was a memorable moment!” 

English teacher Jonathan Lounsberry commented, “Zane is such a unique and creative soul here at Fairview.  I will miss the great class discussions we had because of him. He is also very empathetic and caring and would give the shirt off his back for those in need.” 

Although Jarvis accomplished many things in high school, his achievements don’t stop at becoming Senior Class President.  He also passed the Educational Opportunity Program last year as a Junior.  That’s not what others will remember about him, however.  The bright heart for others that beats within will write the story of who Zane really is. 

“Zane is an intelligent, funny, big-hearted, truly special young man,” Fairview Guidance Counselor Tonia Lucas expressed. “I know he is going to do big things in the future, but most importantly, I know he will do good in this world.”

Longtime girlfriend Grace Worthington shared of Jarvis, “He’s a great guy! Some people don’t always see that, but I always will, and I know others feel the same.  We’ve been together for almost four years, and I’ve seen him grow into the man he is and is becoming.”  She continued noting that his kindness toward her is unparalleled, “He’s going to do something with his life. I can’t wait to see, and always hope to be a part of it.”

Zane intends to continue changing the world and will be attending Bluegrass Community and Technical College in Lexington to learn a trade in HVAC.  He plans to get an apartment and keep addressing life in terms of kindness.  Given an opportunity to share some sage advice with future generations of students, Jarvis recommended, “Let go of the feelings you need others’ validation. Be yourself because, at the end of the day, everyone graduates and goes their own way.”

Student Today, Teacher Tomorrow

Student Today, Teacher Tomorrow

Lisa Patrick

Ashland Beacon

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 Cassidy Madden is a senior graduating from Greenup County High School who already has definitive plans for her future, and they do not include leaving her hometown forever. Madden intends to come back and teach mathematics at her Alma Mater.

 Madden has had a “fun, adventurous and unpredictable” journey through high school. Her favorite classes were Peer Tutoring, Library Aide, and her Education course. Peer Tutoring gave her a chance to work in the special education classroom. Madden said that she “enjoyed every second of it” and “can’t imagine my life now without these kids in it. They have brought me so much joy every day.” She enjoyed spending the past two years working in the school library and learning how they function from the inside, and her education gave her an idea of what it’s like to be a part of the teaching side of the classroom. Her Sophomore Practicum gave her the chance to observe and assist the teachers and even granted her the opportunity to teach “small lessons.”

 

Madden’s senior year has included some honors recognition too. Her graduation gown will include honor cords for Educators Rising, Peer Mentoring, Governor’s Cup (FPS), Rho Kappa, Talent Search, Honors with Highest Distinction, and for the Future Business Leaders of America. She has also received pins for Superintendent Scholar and Library Aide, stoles for Honors with Highest Distinction and Upward Bound Math and Science, and medals for College and Career Ready, National Beta Club, and Marketing Certification. In addition, at the Greenup County High School’s Senior Awards Ceremony, Madden was awarded the Certificate of Skill Attainment, the Academic Award for Precalculus, an award for All “A” Honor Roll, and a Great Eight Certification.

Madden doesn’t let her school activities consume her life though. She makes sure to throw in some fun-even though that fun can also be hard work. Madden dances at Rhythm and Rhinestones in Portsmouth. Every Tuesday and Thursday night, she is there dancing ballet, tap, jazz, and lyrical. Wednesday and Saturday evenings, and Sunday mornings, Madden can be found spending time in lessons of faith at Wrights Chapel.

Madden will be attending Morehead State University this fall with the help of the many scholarships she has received. These include: Horatio Alger Kentucky Scholar scholarship, Dean’s Scholar Scholarship, and Kentucky Educational Excellence Scholarship. Her major will be Mathematics through the MSU Teach Program/Path. After graduating college, Madden plans “to become a mathematics teacher at my hometown high school: Greenup County High School.”

Madden hopes to make her contribution to making the world a better place by “teaching the future adults of the world to be strong leaders, teaching life skills and lessons, and inspiring them to beat the odds and follow their dreams.” She also plans to give back to her community through volunteer work and by “opening up a tutoring center of my own one day.”

Madden’s favorite part of high school is “the friendships that you make along the way and the life lessons you learn.” She is really going to “miss my classmates as we all go our separate ways and embark on our different journeys.” She is also going to miss “each of my teachers who have truly impacted my life.” Madden would like to reach out and give special thanks for supporting her through her senior year to her family, her friends, her teachers this year, “especially Mrs. Hensley who recommended me for this [article in the Ashland Beacon senior edition],” and the students and staff in the Greenup County High School Special Education room. Madden went on to say that “high school has been a blast, and I’m sad to leave it behind but excited to see what the future holds.”

From one Nest, to the Next Loving Carries Distinction to Morehead State

From one Nest, to the Next

Loving Carries Distinction to Morehead State

By Sonya Newman

Ashland Beacon

KIERA by amber

Graduation Day and the hustle and bustle surrounding it can be a bittersweet time for everyone.  Kiera Loving, a graduating senior at Fairview High School, is focusing on all things sweet in regards to what she is leaving behind and what she is moving toward.  As she says goodbye to the school she has dedicated so much of her time and energy to, from her impressive sports accolades to her many academic accomplishments, she excitedly looks ahead at where life will take her next. 

As one of a few given, the distinction of Valedictorian of her class, Kiera shared, “I am honored, relieved, and proud of how hard I have worked.” 

 

Kiera’s hard work has surely been Fairview’s gain, both athletically and academically.  In sports, she can proudly boast: All-Area Honorable Mention in both basketball and volleyball, KHSAA Academic All-State First Team, KHSAA Triple Threat Award, school record for assists in Volleyball, 1,000 Rebound Club, and The DJ and Nieda Preston Athlete of the Year Award.  Her many academic achievements include: Principal’s Highest Distinction List, President’s Award for Educational Excellence, Soaring Eagle, Honor Guard, and WSAZ’s Best of the Class. 

Senior year has brought some challenges for her, as well.  She tore her ACL and had a partial MCL tear during basketball season, causing her season as well as softball season to be cut short.   

“Although her injury deprived not just her, but all of us of probably witnessing one of the greatest accomplishments in the history of Fairview Athletics—averaging a double-double three years in a row and leading the entire state of Kentucky in rebounding.  These are great accomplishments but still don’t define who she is,” Fairview Assistant Principal and former Girls Basketball Coach Mo Mullins shared, “In the future when I think of Kiera Loving, I won’t remember her rebounds and her points. I will never forget her leadership and her genuine love and concern for her teammates and friends.”

“What a great young lady!  Not only is she an extremely nice person, Kiera is a tremendous student-athlete.  She works as hard in the classroom as she does in the gym,” noted Fairview Athletic Director and Volleyball coach, Rick Lambert.  He cited her tremendous love for volleyball and incredible work ethic as the fuel for growth into a player who is the all-time school leader in assists (2,564), which nearly doubles the previous record.  “She will be sadly missed,” Lambert continued, “As coaches, teachers, and administrators there are some kids that stay with us and we will never forget them.  Kiera Loving will be one of those student-athletes that will haunt me the rest of my life, and I mean that in a great and positive way. I feel totally blessed to have had my path cross with such an unforgettable human being.”

Kiera’s advice for those who will graduate in coming years, “Always be yourself, and enjoy every moment. It goes by way to fast.”

The future looming, Loving will remain an Eagle, as she spreads the wings developed at Fairview to take flight at Morehead State University, where she plans to obtain a degree in Imaging Sciences to become an ultrasound technician.  With her reputation and resume paired with a big dream for the future, the path ahead for Kiera Loving is sure to be a very bright one. 

Memories and Lessons That Will Last a Lifetime

Memories and Lessons That Will Last a Lifetime

Sasha Bush

The Ashland Beacon

Jade Brewer 2 submitted

Milestones in life are something to be celebrated and shared. From your first steps to your last day of school, and everything in between… these are all things to be celebrated and remembered. There is one milestone that we  have the opportunity to experience that not only provides us with some of the best memories of our lives, but also sets the foundation for who we are.

Graduating high school is perhaps the biggest milestone of anyone’s life. To walk across that stage and place that tassel from one side to the other, represents a huge accomplishment on your part. The last thirteen years you have woken up and continued to grow as a person every day and learned all that you need to have learned to face the world on your own.

 

For one young graduate this couldn’t be true. Jadelyn Leigh Brewer, born on November 16, 2004, recalled her first memory of school, “I was in elementary school, and I just remember throwing crayons across the room.” Over the years, Brewer has since had memorable moments. “My most favorite moment in high school was during our archery tournament this year. There were a bunch of old archery targets laying around, and we just all instantly decided that it would be a fun idea to ride them down the stairs like a roller coaster. It was a great time, and we had the best time.”

Her time spent at school provided more than just memories that she will cherish for a lifetime. Brewer believes she is the person she is today because of her experiences in high school. She credits her high school experience with shaping her into the well-mannered, smart, and compassionate young woman she is today. Brewer shared, “Not to sound too cliché, but my high school experience has been life changing. Over the course of four short years, you as a person can really change and discover who you are. I know I most certainly have.”

Brewer’s growth is nothing short of inspiring. This talented young woman has accomplished so much in such a short period of time. She has been actively involved in her school’s Key Club, Beta Club, Mu Althea Pheta, FCCLA and NJROTC.   She is a student ambassador and has participated on her high school’s tennis and archery team.  In addition to her involvement at school, Brewer is also an active member of her church’s youth group.

One thing is very clear and that is Brewer finds enjoyment in helping others. Brewer, at a young age, declared that she wanted to be a veterinarian. However, over the years, she has developed a desire to help others along this journey that we call life. “At the moment, I am undecided as to where I further my education, but one thing I know for sure is that wherever I go I want to study elementary school education,” noted Brewer.

Erin Brewer, Brewer’s mother, has been instrumental in Brewer’s decision to go into the education field. “My mother has always been such a role model to me. When she was younger, she made the decision/sacrifice to quit college and stay at home for us (Brewer and her sister). Then, after a few years had passed, my mom decided to go night school in order to get her certification to become a teacher’s aide.”

Brewer graduated from Boyd County High School as part of the class of 2023 just a few short days ago, but the lessons she learned throughout her high school experience will be with her a lifetime. One of the most things Brewer believes she has learned is, “Don’t worry so much about high school… it goes by so fast. Have the time of your life while you are there, and try not to get caught up in all the pointless drama. But most importantly, never lose sight of the path ahead.”

The path ahead is wide open for this goal-oriented graduate. Brewer shared she is very happy to have graduated from BCHS and begin the next chapter of her life. There is one thing that she will miss about high school… “I will miss the most being with my NJROTC cadets and my best friends. I have made so many exceptional relationships here, and I will miss seeing them every day.”