Kerry Richmond, a respected long-time science teacher at Bluefield High School, has rejoined the faculty after brief absence. Her return has been welcomed by students and faculty.

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        “My students were the most influential factors in my decision,” said Ms. Richmond, “and Mr. Collins encouraged me, as well.” Richmond described her teaching style, especially with freshmen, as getting them accustomed to procedural tactics and varied study habits. For the upperclassmen, she teaches and lectures more on the “college style” level to better prepare them for post-secondary education.

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        Richmond says she is always adapting to changes, including more advanced labs students are doing this year from the Advanced Environmental Science book.

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        Nicholas Hinkle, the new band director and his band students are working hard during fall performances and competitions as the Marching Beavers continue to improve. Mr. Hinkle is excited about the fall season and the upcoming concert season, as well, in his new duties as he works to maintain the band’s proud reputation developed over many years.

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        “I have always loved music and enjoyed performing for myself and others,” said Mr. Hinkle in response to why he wanted to be the BHS band director. “I want to help expand our students’ musical abilities and help them do their best.”

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         Mr. Hinkle says the band has had some exceptional achievements in competition and he looks forward to continuing that tradition, as well as starting some new ones.

He adds, “My students and everyone at Bluefield High have been welcoming and I believe our school has a lot of potential in many areas. We need to push forward and strive to be our best every day.”

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By Raenel Crenshaw and Ebony Burress

       Media has been “reborn” at Bluefield High School recently and some of the most important people in Mercer County are pleased. The West Virginia Public Broadcasting Foundation made a $2,500 donation on August 16 to the Bluefield High School newspaper class. It was presented by WVVA-TV General Manager Frank Brady and accepted by both Mercer County Superintendent of Schools Dr. Deborah Akers and BHS principal Michael Collins.

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       Mr. Brady explained, “The Foundation’s donation was made in an attempt to “advocate and work on behalf of WV Broadcasting to ensure all citizens have access to quality public broadcasting services.”

As a result the class has ordered a new computer, two video cameras, studio lighting, a mixing board, and worked to make a ready a brand new room to be used as a broadcasting studio.

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         Dr. Akers said, “I am pleased to consider the positive impact this class can have on the school and the community. I challenge these students – and I believe they will respond – tofulfill that potential and look forward to watching them make good things happen within our local educational system.”

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        Mr. Collins noted, “I am grateful for this donation and look forward to having our journalism students involved in helping to make our community better informed about the good things happening here at Bluefield High School.”

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        Journalism teacher Larry Hypes helped to secure the donation in preparation for the 2016-2017 school year with guidance from Mr. Brady, assistance from financial secretary Sharon Harmon, school secretary Kim Williams, and Mr. Hypes said, “We plan to prepare to give our students a chance to prepare for both broadcast and print journalism. Our local employers want to see students who will one day be ready to work in the media right here in the local area.”

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By Andrew Riffe and Lucas Pettus