FROM THE HEAD OF SCHOOL
MRA strives for excellence in all we do, and the following high- lights and accomplishments from the 2021-22 school year illus- trate this goal and our mission to educate each student’s mind, body, and spirit. These achievements are due to the exceptional faculty and staff, outstanding student body, and supportive par- ent constituency who all continue to contribute to the overall success of our school. I hope you enjoy our school magazine, Revolution, Volume III, as it celebrates another exceptional year for the MRA Family! Here are just a few highlights of the 2021- 22 school year. MRA’s 2022 STAR (Student-Teacher Achievement Recognition) Student is senior, John David Phillips, and high school facul- ty member, Mr. Matt Bramuchi, was named STAR Teacher. MRA’s Valedictorian is Sloane Vinson and Salutatorian is Hunter Thompson. Hunter also received the Don Souder Award given to the most outstanding student athlete in the MAIS. MRA’s tradition of having students receive appointments to our national military academies continues with Will Triplett (Naval Academy) and Tylor Latham (Air Force Academy).
MRA junior, Malee Davidson, was chosen as Madison Coun- ty’s Distinguished Young Woman and competed for the state title this summer where she was a double preliminary winner in Talent and Scholastic categories and finished in the Top Ten. MRA’s ACT average continues to increase with 21 members in the 30+ Club. Congratulations to the following students who have received a composite average of 30 or higher on the ACT: (seniors) Matt Brownlee, Gus Crotty, George Dew, Jack Downer, Davis Edwards, Will Gallaspy, Hudson James, Tylor Latham, John Laws, Catie Mann, Hunter Thompson, John Da- vid Phillips, Drew Sartin, Jacob Taylor, Braedan Watters, (ju- niors) Ryan Adkins, Josh Braman, Malee Davidson, Madeline Duncan, Presley Horn and Cole Heard. MRA seniors, Josie Smith and Hunter Thompson, were named 2022 Christian Leaders of the Future by Mississippi Christian Living Magazine. MRA junior, Victor Grantham, and senior, Will Grogan, recently earned the rank of Eagle Scout, the high- est rank of Boy Scouts. MRA athletic teams have accomplished seven state champi- onships and numerous athletes have garnered individual hon- ors and scholarships. Featured on ESPN, our varsity football team won its third straight 6A State Championship joining state championships in girls’ cross country (5-peat), swim-
Seven MRA alumni and seven current students traveled to Malawi, Africa to serve students in need through Project Ju- embo, a mission project in partnership with the African Bible College. They distributed the school backpacks collected at MRA, distributed 250 pairs of shoes to a village, led soccer and basketball camps where they shared the gospel, led devotions via translators, played soccer on the beach with local children (and gifted the kids the soccer ball to squeals of delight). Key components of MRA’s Portrait of a Graduate–Grounded in the Gospel and A Servant to Others–are beautifully represented by this group from MRA. Campus transformations have become a trend at MRA, and this summer was no different! We have renovated four kindergarten classrooms, completely transformed and enhanced the elementa- ry library, updated the elementary entry and administrative of- fices, added a new classroom in the high school, expanded high school restrooms, built a new Patriot Store in the gym lobby, total- ly refurbished the gymnasium and also added video scoreboards. Award-winning academics, arts, athletics, and spiritual offerings in an enhanced, personal environment–MRA provides it all to our students and families. We look forward to a great 2022-23! -Termie Land
ming, archery (2-peat), varsity boys’ track (3-peat), varsity girls’ track (4-peat), and dance. Sophomore, Will Hooks, repeated as the 6A No. 1 singles champion. One notable athletic milestone was reached by junior, Josh Hubbard, who became the leading boys scorer in MAIS basketball history. Our performing arts program continues to reach levels of ex- cellence, and this year’s spring musical, Seussical the Musical, was no exception! Our students’ talent level was amazing; the set design, costumes, and scenery were phenomenal; the backstage crew and parent support were outstanding; and the acting, choreography, and vocals that directors Dawn Blanton and Brittnye Aven encouraged and developed in these students was exceptional. MRA received nine nominations from The Orpheum High School Musical Theatre Awards. Modeled after the Tony Awards, the Orpheum High School Musical Theatre Awards recognizes achievements in all areas of high school musical theatre. Winners were: Sydney Holladay - Out- standing Supporting Actress, Malee Davidson - Outstanding Featured Actress, Rayley Aven - Bravo Award. Nominees were: Audrey Holt - Outstanding Lead Actress, Hudson James - Outstanding Featured Actor, Julia Kate White - Outstanding Featured Dancer, Brayden Nelson, Mack McIntosh, Anna Grace Whitver, Emerson Mills - Outstanding Lighting, Creative Team, Gertrude’s Tail - Outstanding Artistic Ele- ment, Lisa Agent - Outstanding Poster. With the wonderful middle school production of Annie, Jr. and this production, performing arts at MRA are second to none.
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CONTENTS
2 4 6 8
From the Head of School
Executive Editor/Creative Director Beth Yerger
Table of Contents
Portrait of a Graduate
Kindergarten: It All Starts Here Rawlings Hall: Perfectly Named
Art Director/Graphic Designer Lisa Agent
12 14 16 18 20 22 24 28 30 34 38 42 44 46 50 52 54 56 60 62 64
Elementary
Elementary: Planting Seeds Campus Transformations
Photographers CT Adams Lonnie Kees Chris Grillis Martha Maxey
MRA Memories Welcome to MRA
Middle School: Life in the Middle
Annie JR
High School: Find your Course
Contributing Writers Mark Alexander Dawn Blanton Austin Fortenberry Alan Hart Termie Land Laurie Strickland Beth Yerger Creative Team CT Adams Lisa Agent Dawn Blanton Kay Chance Martha Maxey Grace Moore Mary Claire Parish Beth Yerger
Oh, Brother!
Seussical Soars
Pour some Heart into Art Making Wishes Come True
Class of 2022 MRA Memories
Game Day
Football: Made History Swimming: Swim Champs
Cross Country: One for the Thumb
Archery: Champs Again
Track and Field: Record Breaking Performances Kennedi Sanders: Gatorade Player of the Year Josh Hubbard: Breaks Record
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67 68 69 70 72 76 78 80 82 84 86 88 90 94 96 96 98
Mascots
Cheer and Dance
Drumline: The Beat Goes On
MRA Athletics
The Ultimate
Sports Hall of Fame
MRA Memories MRA in Malawi
Dedicated to photographers, Lonnie Kees and CT Adams, who capture the joy and vitality of our students, faculty, and families during all the special moments that make up a year at MRA. A picture IS worth a thousand words, and I thank you both for using your talents and gifts to help us tell the story of our school.
Oh, the Places Patriots Go!
Twosday: MRA’s Twins
Gardens of Madison County: The Tradition Continues
Partners in Excellence Faculty Hall of Fame Letter from the Board
Beth Yerger, Editor
MRA Memories
Home of the Patriots
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PORTRAIT OF A
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A GRADUATE
A graduate of Madison-Ridgeland Academy will be: A Lifelong Learner Academically prepared with the knowledge, skills, and habits of mind to embark upon and seek to con- tinue a rigorous intellectual path while understanding the importance of developing the mind and creating a strong work ethic in career pursuits Challenged by the Gospel Grounded in the Gospel of Jesus Christ and its impli- cations, with the tools to obtain spiritual direction and understanding Well Balanced Developing a healthy, balanced lifestyle possessing a foundation of Godly character, independence, and self-awareness. Growing in disciplines of mind and body through the pursuit of excellence in academics, athletics, and/or arts Engaged and Persuasive Participating effectively in a community of ideas as a listener and communicator - understanding, critiqu- ing, and challenging worldviews and their implica- tions - working productively with others of diverse viewpoints and backgrounds while maintaining integ- rity of personal beliefs Skillful with Technology Uses technology in a skillful and ethical manner and utilizes information systems in personal, scholastic, and professional contexts to acquire knowledge and advance learning A Servant to Others Demonstrates an awareness of his or her impact on the community, values diversity, and has the skills to understand, cooperate, and empathize with others
Lifelong learner and Challenged by the Gospel are words heard frequently at MRA, but did you know the source is one of MRA’s essential documents, the Portrait of a Graduate? Intentionally designed and articulated, the Portrait of a Graduate lists char- acteristics that a student who graduates from MRA should possess whether that graduate is in K5, 5th grade, or 12th. These aspirations represent MRA’s vi- sion for the 21st century skills, character traits, spir- itual priorities, and social-emotional competencies that students need to succeed in college, career, and life. MRA’s curriculum, culture, mission, and vision are designed to allow the littlest Patriot graduates in their white caps and gowns, the fifth graders gradu- ating elementary school, and the seniors walking at commencement to not only reach these goals but to continue to be successful in all future endeavors. This collective vision represents high expectations for our students—and they continue to rise to the occasion!
Pictured are MRA kindergarten graduate, Hines Hornback, and her brother, high school graduate, Will Hornback.
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Beginning the school year with a state- of-the art playground is every kinder- gartner’s dream, and at MRA those dreams came true this year! Our littlest Patriots enjoyed shade and swings, turf and trees, musical instruments and super slides, picnic tables and hidey holes—all spread out with plenty of room to kick a ball, play chase, and hug a friend. Add this playground to our stellar academic program, caring teachers, engaged students, involved parents and you have a place where each child not only can fly, he or she can SOAR! Certainly the feeling of family is led by our faculty and staff who all take the time to get to know their students’ parents (and even grandparents!) and reach out personally about each child–celebrating successes, giggling over cuteness, and partnering in learning. MRA is a happy place and nowhere on campus is happier than our kindergarten. Perhaps seeing that joy in your child, that love of learning, is the thing that merges us into a family. Somehow we manage to connect and unite and feel a part of something. As the saying goes, “Families are like branches on a tree. We grow in different direc- tions, yet our roots remain as one”. As we watch our children grow and branch out, we pray that they remain rooted in the love and support of the MRA family...and it all starts here!. - -Beth Yerger 9 It all starts here... that love for our school and for each other. Some- how MRA Kindergarten manages to merge an av- erage of 100 new students and their families each year with the other 145 students and their families who were already here and meld the “new” and the “current” into a marvelous mix of “us.” That magical mixture is what makes up the MRA fam- ily, and the kindergarten is where you can see it all begin. Maybe it’s Mrs. Streeter teaching the Fight Song in the first weeks of school with kiddos going home and teaching it to mom and dad–turning parents into Patriots before they know what hit them! Maybe it’s seeing the moms and dads giving up their air–conditioned morn- ings to open car doors in the August heat to ensure carpool moves efficiently and that our babies are warmly welcomed. Possibly it’s events designed for parents to get to know each other and cele- brate the joy of gathering together–events such as Donuts for Dads, Muffins for Moms, the Hoe- down, the Fairy Tale Parade, the Fairy Tale Ball, Gingerbread House Day, STEM Pumpkin Math with dads, Nursery Rhyme day, Special Snack, and Mystery Readers just to name a few!
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KINDERGARTEN
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PERFECTLY NAMED
T here’s a reason the book All I Really Need to Know I Learned in Kindergarten spent weeks at #1 on the New York Times Best Sell- ers list—the impact of the lessons learned at that young age are vital, lasting, and shape our lives into adulthood. MRA is so fortunate that, for twenty-five years, the person steering the wheel at MRA’s pre- school and kindergarten (and therefore, guiding and impacting the lives of countless children and their families) is Sandy Rawlings. In fact, in honor of her years of service to the school and the great differ- ence she has made in the lives of our students, the MRA Kindergarten has been named Rawlings Hall—an honor that was made official at a ribbon-cutting and dedication service this past fall. We asked Sandy Rawlings some questions about her time in education and her years at MRA. In these answers, I think you will see some of the many reasons Rawlings Hall is deservedly and appropriately named! What motivated you to choose education? I was born to be a teacher! My grandmother, Maggie McArthur, taught in a one room schoolhouse in Mashulaville, MS. My sister and my brother were both teachers. I have been an advocate for ear- ly childhood education most of my life. The early years are the most important in the development of a child. I know the preschool-kin- dergarten years are the gateway to education. There is no truer quote than,“ The first 5 years of a child’s life determines how the next 80 will turn out.” Making a difference is my daily motivation. What has been your proudest accomplishment in education? My proudest accomplishment in education is the difference I hope I have made in the young lives of my babies throughout my years. Many children have passed
so very proud of the hard work and dedication of the faculty mem- bers that continue to be lifelong learners. We are one of the top Early Childhood programs in the state. Providing an excellent education and planting seeds of faith is a prayer answered. What does MRA mean to your family? When our family moved to Madison, we found our home-away- from-home at MRA. My children grew up on this campus. A Christian education was very important to us, and Jeff and I were involved from the beginning. Jeff volunteered to coach just about every sport for Kelly, Alec, and Sean. For many years, I was room mom, assistant room mom, navigator, coordinator, dance team coach, and I loved spending time with our children’s friends. Our farm was the setting for many homecoming pep rally bonfires. For our last son’s senior year, our home was used for the coaches to teach Leadership 101. I think back to all the wonderful Christian role models all three of our children had in their lives during their time at MRA. Priceless! All this to say I encourage my kindergar- ten parents to be involved and plug in. Volunteering and modeling a servant heart for children is so important. Mr. Thompson, for- mer head of school, said it best: Little Eyes Are Watching. Kelly Edwards, my daughter, is a teacher in the elementary. Sometimes life comes full circle. Jeff and I now attend all the events at MRA for our three granddaughters. We are now in the stands waving and cheering with the cheerleaders. It brings me such joy. What does having your name on this building mean to you?
I just tear up thinking about this. When Mr. Land shared the rendering with my name on the build- ing, I was speechless. It is such an incredible honor to my family and me. When my chil- dren, grandchildren, MRA parents and stu- dents see “Rawlings Hall” on the building, I want them to think of the good memories. My prayer is that I have and will continue to bring out the best in our children at MRA.
through these doors, and they often come back to give me a hug. It makes me proud to hear how much they loved their kindergarten years. And none of it would have been pos- sible without the commitment and support of Mr. Thompson, Mr. Land, and our board members, past and present. They trusted me and supported me every step of the way. I am
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ELEMENTARY 16
Planting Seeds According to the Roman philosopher, Cicero, If you have a garden and a library, you have everything you need. And lucky for MRA Elementary students and families, we not only have a totally new library, we also have a unique, special garden in which our children can enjoy the beauty of God’s creation just steps from their classrooms. Every morning MRA Elementary parents pass this beautiful landmark known as Jenny’s Garden as they drop off in the carpool line, and many have asked about the significance of the beautiful spot. More than just a garden spot, Jenny’s Garden is a place of learning, a place for worship, a place to gather, and a place of remembrance. Planned and planted in mem- ory of Jennifer Lynn Palmer, a former MRA Elementa- ry student who passed away, the garden has become so much more than Jenny’s classmates and family could have envisioned years ago when it was dedicated. The garden now is a spot in which first graders release butterflies after watching the life cycle of a caterpillar to a chrysalis to a beautiful winged creature. It is a place in which we gather to pray and have class de- votions. STEM projects take flight in the garden and special books are read aloud in this pretty spot. Prayer walks begin in the garden. Tour-goers visit it during our annual school fund-raiser, The Gardens of Mad- ison County, and get to see not only our impressive campus but also the value we place on “planting seeds” in more ways than one! Taking advantage of this outdoor space is something our elementary school does well. Principal Amanda Smillie loves using the garden for her monthly meet- ings in honor of our Super Pats: Having Super Pat de- votions in Jenny’s Garden is my absolute favorite way to connect the children to the gospel. The Bible stories come to life while we feel the presence of the Holy Spirit meeting us in this beautiful space. There is a saying: To plant a garden is to believe in to- morrow. And everything we do at MRA is because we believe in tomorrow. Our st udents are the leaders of tomorrow, the inventors of tomorrow, the artists of to- morrow...and we are planting seeds to realize all their dreams. Jenny’s Garden is a reflection of the school’s dedication to growth, renewal, remembrance, as well as a celebration of God’s gift of the bounty of nature. In Him, we do have everything we need. -Beth Yerger
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MRA CAMPUS TRANSFORMATIONS NEW McPherson Elementary Library Four Updated Kindergarten Classrooms
Kindergarten Kitchen Elementary Entry and Administrative Offices High School Classroom Patriot Store in the Gym Lobby Refurbished Gym with Video Scoreboards Parking Lot
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MRA
MEMORIES
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Mr. and Miss MRA Middle School
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WELCOM
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E TO MRA
Servant leader, passionate, creative, and energetic. These are just a few of the words that come to mind when think- ing of Ben Haindel. One of the many reasons why I’m so excited to have Mr. Haindel as our Middle School principal is because he truly loves what he does. He understands how important Middle School is, and he cannot wait to make it an exciting, unforgettable, and unique experience for all of the 6th, 7th, and 8th graders at MRA. It’s going to be an amazing year in the MRA Middle School! These are just some of the thoughts middle school teach- er, Ashley Garavelli, has about MRA’s new Middle School Principal, Ben Haindel. Ben brings a wealth of experience including over 25 years in Christian independent school education. A graduate of Northlake Christian School in Covington, LA, he received his bachelor’s degree in so- cial studies with a minor in mathematics from Louisiana College and earned his master’s degree in Secondary Ad- ministration from Southeastern Louisiana University. Ben taught history and Bible at Northlake Christian School for 17 years and served as the History Department Chair. He was selected to lead the Upper School at Parkview Bap- tist School in Baton Rouge in 2014 before returning to his alma mater as the Middle School Principal at Northlake Christian School. In the summer of 2021, Ben was hired as the Director of Curriculum and Instruction at Briar- wood Christian School in Birmingham, AL. Ben and his wife, Courtney, have three daughters, Mary Evelyn who attends Mississippi College, and new Patriots: Molly Mae (11th grade) and Campbell (7th grade). Ben began his MRA duties on June 1st and has already contributed to a great start for the 2022-23 school year. He has this to say about his transition to our school: My family and I are thrilled to be a part of the Patriot Nation here at MRA! We are so grateful to everyone who has been so welcoming and made us feel right at home. From my first day on campus, I have been so impressed with the school leadership, the student body, and the families that make MRA such a special place. I am hon- ored to serve in the role of Middle School Principal, and I look forward to providing an exciting and challenging experience for our 6th, 7th, and 8th graders. We have a phenomenal teaching staff in the Middle School, and
it is a privilege to serve alongside these excep- tional teachers each day. I truly believe the Lord has an amazing plan for each and every one of our Middle School stu- dents, and I can’t wait to see His plans unfold this year and for many years to come. It is our privilege to wel- come the Haindel Family to the MRA Family!
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LIFE IN THE 24
MIDDLE
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In The Middle Remember claiming “shotgun” in your parents’ car? Nev- er did we choose to be in the middle seat! The “middle” sometimes gets a bad rap, but consider how great it is to be in the middle of a good book or an awesome movie or a thrilling ballgame. Middle School at MRA can be just like that! Your child is so ready for independence and in- creased responsibility after being wonderfully prepared in elementary school, and our program is designed to meet those needs. So much of a middle school student’s learning experience is figuring out how to navigate sev- en courses along with increased extra-curricular oppor- tunities and new social interactions. Our middle school teachers know this is a time of transition not only for our students, but also their parents. We partner with our families to provide support while also moving students into the world of self-advocacy and independence.
Finding a passion is a key part of the magic of middle school. As students enter 6th, 7th and 8th grade, they ex- perience many opportunities for involvement in clubs, teams, performing and fine arts, as well as multiple hon- ors course offerings. Students are then better equipped academically and socially for the rigors of high school, making the transition easier and enabling them to hit the ground running. The middle school years are a time of student-led, en- gaged learning with opportunities to bring academic concepts to life. Glow Week, Invention Week, Shark Tank presentations all are fun ways to bring real-world appli- cations to concepts while making memories at the same time. So while it might not be as fun as our memories of riding “shotgun,” it’s good to be in the middle at MRA!
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little orphan girl who lives in a New York City orphan- age run by the cruel Miss Hannigan. However, the most popular cast member was not one of the students. MRA’s Finley the Wonder Dog, performing as Annie’s adopted stray, Sandy, stole the show each time she hit the stage. Finley even came out to take her bow at the end of the evening when the entire cast and crew received a standing ovation for their fabulous performance! -Dawn Blanton
MRA’s middle school performing arts students took the stage at the Madison Center for the Arts in October for a one-night only evening of entertainment. Annie JR. was the perfect musical for a cast of 30 amazingly talented and enthusiastic young performers. Several high school stu- dents also participated in the production, running the sound and lights, changing sets, and working backstage with props, hair, makeup, and costume changes. Annie JR. tells the rags to riches story of the perennial favorite
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FIND YOUR CO
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OURSE I n recent years, Madison-Ridgeland Academy has seen tremendous growth in the coursework and offerings in the high school curriculum. The recent additions have enabled students to better pursue the path that they are pas- sionate about and be better prepared for the future that lies ahead of them after high school graduation.
RECENT COURSEWORK CHANGES MRA has increased the academic offerings in high school to ensure we are providing opportunities for our students to re- alize their fullest potential. On top of the dual credit course- work, the other curriculum offerings in grades 9-12 have also increased with new classes having recently been added in the areas of science, math, English, and electives. In the area of English, an online Advanced Writing course is now offered each semester, providing students the opportuni- ty to further challenge themselves in the area of composition. Additionally, several years ago, MRA launched a writing cen- ter which is staffed by student tutors. In the areas of math and technology, a revamped personal finance class began in the fall of 2021, offering students op- portunities to learn about the ins and outs of how to manage their finances, credit, and purchases as they move into adult- hood. To help students better meet the demands of a techno- logically advanced world and workforce, two coding classes and Advanced Placement Computer Science were launched. The science department has seen impressive growth and ex- pansion, adding numerous year-long and semester-long sci- ence courses to an already robust curriculum. AP Physics II and AP Physics C along with Microbiology, Honors Genet- ics, Marine Science, Zoology, Introduction to Engineering, and Engineering Design and Development have all been new additions to the MRA academic offerings. “ In science, it has been incredibly important to us that our students are exposed to as many areas of science as possible,” says Matt Bramuchi, head of the science department. “We want them excited and engaged in science. Additional courses and flexible semes- ter offerings have really been critical in helping us meet those goals. These opportunities at MRA allow students to explore our world, chase their own dreams, and be prepared to solve problems in the world of today and tomorrow.”
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Our art department has also recently undergone a redesign, offering students more options to pursue and build upon as they seek to create, design, and craft unique projects. Stu- dents may choose from 2D art, 3D art, or digital photogra- phy. Mediums covered within these offerings now include drawing, painting, mixed media, printmaking, fiber arts, ceramics, paper mache, and sculpture to name a few. Ad- vanced Placement 2D Design and Advanced Placement 3D Design are now offered to students who excel in the area of art while an independent study option is also underway, en- abling students to better pursue a particular medium of art which they are passionate about. SUMMER SCHOOL In an effort to enable students to take more classes during their time in high school, MRA launched a summer school program which offers certain courses each summer. Sum- mer school is optional for students in 9-12 but has seen in- creased growth in popularity since launching in the summer of 2019. Several current or former MRA faculty members facilitate these online courses each year, allowing MRA to ensure that course rigor and content is consistent with our school year offerings. Current offerings include primarily history courses, but Advanced Writing and Health are also being offered through the summer program. MOVING FORWARD In the 2022-2023 school year, MRA launches other new of- ferings, with Advanced Placement Environmental Science being introduced and Introduction to Legal Studies coming back into the curriculum fold after a hiatus in recent years. “I’m very proud of the college-preparatory program avail- able to our students as they prepare for the next stage of their educational journey,” notes Greg Self, Associate Head of School and High School Principal. “We have experienced quantitative growth in enrollment over the past decade, but we have also been able to increase the quality of the academ- ic program in offerings and instructional delivery.” The faculty and staff are proud of the academic rigor and coursework in the current Academic Catalog and look for- ward to continuing to offer a variety of courses that both challenge and prepare future graduates.
-Laurie Strickland
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Did you know that your child can “go to college” on the campus of MRA? This past school year marked the completion of the sixth year of the dual credit program at Madison-Ridgeland Academy. The dual credit program offers students the opportunity to gain credit at a college university while also earning credits towards their high school graduation requirements. MRA partners with Mississippi College to offer these college credits to qualifying sophomores, juniors, and seniors. MRA was able to pull from our own faculty to teach these courses on our campus and these teachers are, in fact, adjunct professors at Mississippi College. Currently, MRA offers 27 hours of college credit with five college math courses, three college English courses, and college-level Psychology, offering many graduating students the opportunity to walk away from MRA with a semester’s worth of college credit hours just from dual credit work. When paired with the college credit that students have the opportunity to gain through any of our 15 Advanced Place- ment courses, students have the ability to leave MRA with a head start in completed college coursework, opening up new opportunities for them upon their arrival at the college of their choice. MRA Class of 2018 graduate and Missis- sippi State University senior civil engineering student, Jake Reeves, says that the dual credit and AP program set him up for success and opportunity as he studied engineering. “The thirty hours I earned in AP and dual credit classes allowed me the freedom to take special classes required by organiza- tions on campus, co-op two semesters with an Engineering company, and still be on track to graduate on time.” -Laurie Strickland
Dual Credit Offerings: Introduction to Psychology Composition 101 Composition 102 Survey of American Literature College Trigonometry College Algebra Elementary Statistics
Calculus 1 Calculus 2
Advanced Placement Offerings: English Literature and Composition English Language and Composition World History: Modern United States History United States Government and Politics
Physics 1 Physics 2 Physics C: Electricity and Magnetism, Mechanics Biology Chemistry Environmental Science Latin
2-D Art and Design 3-D Art and Design Computer Science Principles
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OH, BROTHER! 34
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GROWING & MOWING
edge, and trim for our neighbors’ yards just like we did ours, and more neighbors started to hire us. We contin- ue to work very hard to complete these yards to the best of our ability.” That dedication has resulted in a growing, thriving lawn and landscape company with eight to ten contract employees and many satisfied clients. The brothers have invested in their company and own equipment ranging from trucks, trailers, mowers, trim- mers, and edgers. As one can imagine, starting the busi- ness at such young ages has resulted in some interesting challenges. Shelton explains one of the most daunting, “When we started the business, I didn’t even have a driv- er’s license! We had all this work, and had mowers and trailers, but had no way to get to people’s yards. So, we came up with an idea, ‘Let’s hire upperclassmen to drive us around to the yards!’ Our mom was the backup plan, but she really didn’t like pulling trailers and hated backing them up even more. Hiring upperclassmen, mostly from MRA, worked out great. Some came and went, but we had a great group that worked together well and are still friends today.” With their staff, they are able to break into multiple groups to complete many jobs in a single day. Time management is one of the biggest challenges for all business owners but add in team practices, social activities, and school work, and you get a picture of the balancing act
T he old saying Grass doesn’t grow under his feet is especially apt for two MRA students, Harper and Shelton Kinkade, sons of Keith and Missy. The Kinkade boys started their business, Kinkade’s Lawn and Landscape, when Shelton was 12 years old and Harper was only 10. According to Shelton, “Our neighbors no- ticed that we did a really good job mowing our own yard and asked us if we would mow theirs. We would mow,
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their yards and landscape. We believe that being polite and gracious to customers is an important way to continue to grow our business.” Another perk of owning a lawn and landscape company is that both boys love to be outside. Ac- cording to Shelton, “Harper and I both enjoy fishing, hunt- ing and playing sports, so a paying job that keeps us outside is great! The money part is really cool, too!” “I am so impressed with these young men and their work ethic, attention to detail, entrepre- neurship, and ability to develop and maintain relationships. They are both so personable in a very humble way and are great members of the MRA student body.” -Termie Land, Head of School Shelton is excited to enter his senior year of high school with all the activities and excitement ending with commence- ment in May, but he also plans to continue his commitment to quality work with the goal of making sure his clients love their yards. He also has another goal with some brotherly love attached, “I want to leave a healthy and growing busi- ness for my brother, Harper, to take over when I go to col- lege. He will be a high school Sophomore at MRA when I enter Mississippi State University to pursue a degree in Landscape Design and Landscape Contracting. But until then, we will continue to work hard mowing and growing our ‘little yard business.’” MRA is blessed to have a talented student body with many diverse interests and activities - but make sure you add business owners to the mix! -Beth Yerger
the brothers have to perform to not only have a successful business, but also to be high achieving students. “We do continue to run our business during the school year be- cause our weather in Mississippi is warm and humid, and the grass continues to grow. We install pine straw in late fall and early winter, and then really get a lot of work in the spring to get yards ready for flowers. Having a year-round business does mean that we have to balance school and work. Over the past several years we have learned how to do that better. The teachers at MRA all know that we work after school and are supportive. But that doesn’t excuse us from schoolwork!” Both Shelton and Harper are involved students and have a number of interests. They credit the school with contributing to their success, “We are glad that we go to school at MRA. We have learned time man- agement, punctuality, problem solving, teamwork and communication, all of which we put into practice daily in our business. We have also seen how our teachers manage students and adults with different personalities. This has been important as we manage our employees and client expectations with respect and understanding.” They also credit academic classes for their knowledge of accounting and technology in running their business. Owning a business before even entering high school is not necessarily the norm. Shelton explains the best part of this path he has chosen, “My favorite thing about owning my own business is that we get to build our own reputation. I like knowing that we are responsible for our own success by doing a good job. Our customers know that we are young and we know that they are taking a chance trusting us with
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SEUSSICAL SOARS I n February, audiences of all ages enjoyed being transported by their favorite Dr. Seuss characters, including Horton the Elephant, the Cat in the Hat, Gertrude McFuzz, Lazy Mayzie, and a little boy with a big imagination – Jojo, from the Jungle of Nool, the Circus McGurkus, to the invisible world of the Whos. The colorful set and set pieces were designed, built and painted by a creative team that included many, many students, parents, grandparents, and dedicated supporters of our program. The costumes, hair, makeup, and props were once again a collaborative effort, representing what makes MRA’s performing arts program so special. The cast, crew, and creative team of Seussical the Musical , featuring a cast of 59 students in grades 6-12, a crew of 10 high school students, along with 62 students in k5 – 5th grades, competed in the Memphis Orpheum High School Musical Theatre Awards program. The program is part of the National High School Musical Theatre Awards, known as the Jimmy Awards, which is a program produced by The Broadway League that in- cludes over 40 programs from across the country. Modeled after the Tony Awards, the Orpheum High School Musical Theatre Awards recognizes achievements in all areas of high school musical theatre and brings to- gether hundreds of students from all over the region to share their talents and collaborate with one another. Each year, schools compete in a wide range of theatrical categories. This year, over 40 schools from all over the Mid-South competed in the Orpheum’s program!
MRA’s Seussical the Musical received a total of nine nominations and three wins! Sydney Holladay was awarded Outstanding Supporting Actress for her role as JoJo, Malee Davidson received the award for Outstanding Fea- tured Actress for her role as Mayzie, and Rayley Aven, who played the role of Baby Kangaroo, received the Bravo Award for young performers. The production also received nominations for Outstanding Show Poster, Outstanding Lighting, and Outstanding Artistic Element for Gertrude’s tail. Julia Kate White received a nomination for Outstanding Featured Dancer for dancing as the speck of dust, Hudson James for Outstanding Featured Actor for his role as General Ghengis Kahn Schmitz, and Audrey Holt for Outstanding Lead Actress for her role as Gertrude. In May, three students represented MRA’s performing arts program in Memphis, which involved several days and many hours of rehearsal and preparation. Hannah Forbes and Parker Anderson performed in the Opening and Closing numbers during the live awards show, and Audrey Holt performed as Gertrude during a medley performance number fea- turing other nominees for Outstanding Lead Actress. -Dawn Blanton 38
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MAKING WISHES COME TRUE
T his past spring, the MRA Student Council partnered with the Make-A-Wish chapter of Mississippi to grant wishes to Max and Abraham, two young boys in the Jackson area who have life-altering medical conditions. Max’s wish was to visit Disney World, while Abraham’s wish was to feed the homeless in Poindexter Park for a year. To support Max and Abraham, Student Council members revived an MRA tradition--Powderpuff football--for grades 9-12 as the first fundraiser benefiting Make-A-Wish. Then these campus leaders planned a Walk-A-Thon for students in grades 6-12. During the school day, each student in these grades walked two miles on MRA’s track in support of the boys; all students
were challenged to find “sponsorships” for their walk, asking family, friends, and businesses to pledge a certain amount of money per mile walked. To make the event more special, Max and Abraham were able to visit the school the day of the Walk- A-Thon, even walking a few laps with the students who were supporting them. It was a meaningful day for all involved. With money raised from these two events, the Student Coun- cil was able to present a check of $12,501.00 to Make-A-Wish of Mississippi. The success of the fundraiser is truly a testa- ment to the generosity of the MRA family. -Austin Fortenberry
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CLASS 2022 OF
T he class of 2022’s excellence will be remembered both individually and collectively. Collectively, the 94-member class was offered over 11.66 million dollars in scholarship dollars, breaking the previous record set by the class of 2020 by over two million dollars. Additional points of pride include, but are not limited to: • The class of 2022 set a school-record in number of AP scholars, Eminent Scholars, Visual and Performing Arts Orpheum theater awards, Scholastic Art awards, and MAIS state championships won over the course of their four years in high school. They are the epitome of a well-balanced class that continually sought excellence in all areas of school life. • One in six seniors are members of the ACT 30+ Club • Members of the Class of 2022 were offered scholarships from over 50 different schools across the country. Other senior honors include the following: Valedictorian – Sloane Vinson Salutatorian – Hunter Thompson MRA Hall of Fame – Avery James, Tylor Latham, William Pentecost, Drew Sartin, Hunter Thompson, Will Triplett, Sloane Vinson, Braedan Watters Don Souder Award – Hunter Thompson DAR Good Citizenship Award – William Pentecost WAPT Blitz Scholar Athlete of the Week – Tylor Latham Wendy’s High School Heisman – Hunter Thompson, Street Toler
Mississippi Christian Leaders of the Future – Josie Smith, Hunter Thompson
President’s Award for Academic Excellence –Matt Brownlee, Gus Crotty, Jack Downer, George Dew, McCoy Evans, Davis Edwards, Mackie Edwards, Will Gallaspy, Hudson James, John Laws, Tylor Latham, Matthew Lemly, Lacy Lockey, Catie Mann, Caroline Oliphant, Michael Ordell, William Pentecost, John David Phillips, Anna Grace Randall, Drew Sartin, Jacob Taylor, Hunter Thompson, Street Toler, Will Triplett, Sloane Vinson, Braedan Watters MAIS ACT Distinguished Scholar Award – Gus Crotty, George Dew, Will Gallaspy, John Laws, Drew Sartin, John David Phillips Star Student and Star Teacher – John David Phillips; Matt Bramuchi MRA PATS Award – Sloane Vinson, Hunter Thompson Tommy Thompson Scholarship – Sara Long, McCoy Evans Shelter Insurance Scholarship – Braedan Watters Cole Kirby Memorial Scholarship – Lydia McIntosh Smylie Spotlight Award – Anna Grace Randall Prudential Spirit of Community – Jacob Taylor Chancellor’s Leadership Class – Braedan Watters Ronald Reagan Leadership Medal – William Pentecost ACT – All MRA students are required to take the ACT prior to graduation. 15 seniors scored 30+ on the ACT, and 6 seniors scored 33+ on the ACT. ACT 30+ Club – Matt Brownlee, Gus Crotty, George Dew, Jack Downer, Davis Edwards, Will Gallaspy, Hudson James, Tylor Latham, John Laws, Catie Mann, John David Phillips, Drew Sartin, Jacob Taylor, Hunter Thompson, Braedan Watters
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HALL OF FAME
MRA CLASS OF 2022 CLASS DAY MONDAY, MAY 9 • MRA GYMNASIUM GRADUATION FRIDAY, MAY 20 BROADMOOR BAPTIST CHURCH
VALEDICTORIAN & SALUTATORIAN
THOMPSON SCHOLARSHIP RECIPIENTS
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MRA MEMORIES
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Mr. and Miss MRA High School
GAME DAY
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Three-Peat 6A State Champs
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Back to Back to Back Herbert Davis lost in the championship game in each of his first three seasons as head football coach at MRA. The Patriots went 8-5 in his fourth season and were bounced in the semifinals. Davis was so discouraged he almost left MRA. In fact, he contem- plated getting out of coaching altogether. “I thought we weren’t really getting anywhere as a program,” Da- vis said. “I looked at another job. But the good Lord told me to stay put, that I had something special here. Just keep working. He was right, as always.” Something special indeed. MRA has won 47 games in the four years since then, the latest coming November 21st in the form of a convincing 42-7 victory over Hartfield in the MAIS Class 6A state championship game at Mississippi College’s Robinson-Hale Stadium. It marked the Patriots third straight state title and fifth in program history. “Three in a row. Wow!,” Davis said. “It’s pretty incredible. To look back four or five years ago and compare that to now where we’re sitting on a three-peat. It’s crazy. Never would’ve thought that would happen. It’s a testament to these kids. We work the heck out of them, but they take that challenge head on and here we are again. I can’t say enough about them. I’m proud of our kids, our program, and our school. It’s awesome. These seniors did something nobody in a MRA uniform has ever done before – win three in a row.” Some say bad things come in threes. Apparently, good things can also come in threes. MRA’s three straight wins in the title game have come against three different opponents – Jackson Prep three years ago, Jackson Academy last year, and upstart Hartfield this season. “Winning three in a row, that’s unbelievable,” MRA senior receiv- er Street Toler said. “It feels good to go out on top.”
The title game was tied 7-7 late in the first quarter before MRA scored 35 unanswered points to win going away – much the same way they did for most of the season. After a 1-3 start, the Patriots ran the table with 10 straight victories to finish 11-3. They outscored those 10 opponents 458-109, an average margin of five touchdowns per game. “We started off slow, but we made some adjustments and were able to put some points on the board,” said MRA senior receiver Davis Dalton, a Southern Miss commit. Hartfield finished 9-3 with two of those losses coming to MRA in recent weeks. The Patriots defeated the Hawks 45-23 in the regular season finale for both teams. “We played a really tough schedule early and we struggled some, but those games helped us and they made us the great team we are now,” MRA sophomore quarterback John White said. “Those games prepared us for the rest of the season, and they prepared us for this game. This is what we’ve been working for all year, and we were able to finish it out. That was our goal.” MRA scored 14 points in the first quarter and 14 more in the sec- ond to take a 28-7 halftime lead. The Patriots added another touch- down in the third quarter and another in the fourth to eclipse the 40-point mark for the ninth time this season. They held Hartfield scoreless over the last 37 minutes following the lone touchdown late in the first quarter, marking the seventh time this season they’ve allowed seven or fewer points in a game. MRA finished with 560 yards of total offense, compared to 318 for Hartfield. The Patriots rushed for a season-high 287 yards, White completed 17 of 26 passes for 273 yards and a pair of touchdowns. He also added an 18-yard touchdown run. The Winona Christian transfer finished the season with a Mississippi-best 3,936 passing yards and 39 touchdowns. His two favorite targets all year have been Dalton and Toler, and that night proved no different. Davis had nine catches for 112 yards, while Toler reeled in six catches for 105 yards and a
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No doubt, MRA has this celebrating championships thing down pat. Not only did this senior class collect three straight state championships, they also never lost a conference game and went a combined 9-0 against rivals Jackson Prep and Jackson Academy. “It’s definitely the way you want to go out,” Latham said. “This is what we worked for all year so for it to end like it did is sweet.” One reporter brought up the dynasty word during a post- game interview with Davis. His response? “I don’t know about all that, but I do know we have some- thing special going on here right now,” he said. “Hopeful- ly, these kids understand that, and they keep working hard when we start getting ready for next year. It’s not nearly as easy as you may think. We’re going to enjoy this one, just like we enjoyed the last two, I can assure you.”
touchdown. Dalton (89 catches, 1,587 yards, 15 TDs) and Toler (63 catches, 992 yards, 10 TDs) combined for 2,579 yards and 25 touchdowns this season. “Those two guys can go up and get the ball,” Davis said. “We’re definitely going to miss them next year.” The Patriots, who have made the championship game in seven of Davis’ eight seasons, have won 41 of its last 42 games against MAIS competition. They’ve won 30 of their last 33 games and 47 of their last 53 overall. Three of those wins have resulted in championships. Soon after receiving their individual medallions, MRA’s players accepted the blue championship trophy and immediately ran it over to the student section to celebrate along with their peers. The students weren’t allowed on the field afterwards, so the players took the celebration to them. Many of them climbed up the wall and into the bleachers along with the students. With the drumline banging away, the crowd began chanting “MRA! MRA! MRA!” in unison and also sang the school fight song. Pictures, lots of them, followed on the field. All the players and coaches held up three fingers to signify the 3-peat.
-Mark Alexander
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HERBERT DAVIS
Newly inducted into the MAIS Hall of Fame
2020 Clarion Ledger Coach of the Year
3-Peat MAIS 6A State Championship Coach
Six State Titles: Three at MRA and two at Brookhaven Academy and one at Pillow Only coach in Mississippi history to take five different schools to state championship games
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Just Keep Swimming MRA’s High School Swim Team enjoyed a very successful 2021- 22 Campaign culminating in a State Championship. Said their coach, Erin Cummins, “Our athletes put in the “try” in the new longer season of practices and dual meets, and brought the “umph” for the triumph. Our 25 men and women competed and compiled points together to clinch the MAIS High School Overall State Swimming Championships. MRA has quality athletes, and I’m so proud of how they pulled together as a team to become victorious. MRA’s swimmers took their mark, and then made their mark, and the results are outstanding!” The 2021-2022 season was the first time for MAIS to follow National Federation of High School Swimming rules. With these new MAIS standards, our swimmers also set 19 MRA High School records and 5 MAIS records at the Overall State Swimming Championships. In the men’s division, two MAIS records were set by Thomas Dale and Josh Braman. In relays, two MRA records were set and one MAIS record set by the team of Josh Braman, Vanndel Chinchen, John Mi- chael Oliphant, and Thomas Dale. In the women’s division, seven MRA records were set in in- dividual events with one also being an MAIS record set by Hallie Dale. The girls set all new MRA records in their three relays with one of those also setting an MAIS record. That record-setting relay team consisted of Riz McBride, Mary El- lison Dale, Trilby Cummins, and Hallie Dale.
Led by team captains Josh Braman and Caroline Oliphant, the High School Patriot Swim Team is coached by Dr. Erin Cum- mins who was a Mississippi state champion in the backstroke and freestyle in her youth and was part of the Junior Olympic Team/ Zone team representing MS in Southern Swimming Association. She swam Division 2 for Delta State University and made all conference her freshman year along with aca- demic all conference the remaining years. She was part of a DSU relay that made top 16 in the nation. Coach Cummins currently maintains coaching membership and certification with USA Swimming. She is a general surgeon with Surgical Clinic Associates at Baptist Colonades and on staff at Baptist Hospital and Merit Health: River Oaks, Woman’s and Madi- son. Her son Tyler graduated from MRA in 2011, and her 7th grade daughter Trilby has been attending from K3 to present. Coach Cummins states, “I believe anybody who strives to im- prove themselves is a winner. As their coach, I am here to push athletes to their limits, and I will encourage swimmers to set goals and to be their own critic while they learn how to handle performance anxiety. This might be one’s only athletic experience, and I hope they fall in love with it.” TEAM AWARDS Patriot Award: Vanndel Chinchen
High Point Boy: Thomas Dale High Point Girl: Riz McBride Most Improved: AnnaLee Cossar
SWIM CHA
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