Appomattox High School - Traveler Yearbook (Appomattox, VA)

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l Stcmchng Senzors

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l 1 4 1 I i Y

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History ofthe Senior Class It was an exciting day of orientation in early September, 1954, when one hundred twenty of us rather timorous eighth-graders converged at Appomattox High School to begin our difficult journey along the steep trail to Graduation Peak. At first we were happily oblivious of the magnitude of the task that loomed before us, but under the leadership of Captain Kerr and with the aid of our guides, Miss Carlton, Mrs. Gurney, Mrs. Holland, and Mr. Cockerill, the expedition was soon advancing in earnest toward the completion of the exploratory courses outlined for us that year. In addition, we found time to participate in many clubs and other activities of the school and even presented an assembly program on President 's Day for the entire student body. The dedication of the new gym- nasium was an important milestone that made traveling easier and more pleasant in the realm of physical education and athletics. As we finally neared the first plateau, we paused to celebrate with a festive picnic and then settled down for a rest. The climb grew ever steeper, but most of us were ready for the challenge of broader horizons in the ninth grade, and the party was augmented by fresh- men from Pamplin High School. Guided by Mrs. Runkle, Mrs. Ferrell, and Mr. Hudson, we separated into groups pursuing business, agriculture, home- economics, and college-preparatory courses, Band was included for the first time as an elective that year. Many became eligible for membership in more clubs and for participation in sports and other extracurricular activities. Mr. Godwin accompanied some of the science students on an eye -opening excursion to the zoo in Washington, D. C. After a year of strenuous marching, we were glad to stop for another class picnic and more rest on the second plateau. Taking up our burdens again, we forged ahead in our sop. nore year, this time under Captain Christopher and with the assistance of Mrs. heatham, Mrs. Beamer, and Mr. Coates. A new program of distributive education and diver- sified occupations was introduced into the curriculum, and some of us, with an eye to preparation for future careers, signed up to take the courses the following year, Promising vocalists in the party joined the choral group directed by Mr. Coates. There were many obstacles in our rocky path, but most of us had learned to use our skills in mountain -climbing, to follow the signposts - the counsel that teachers offered along the way, - and to persevere until we reached another resting place, Heartened by our success in attaining the status of Juniors, we were soon pressing on, though we were grieved by the tragic loss of a very gifted and likable fellow traveler, Kenneth Marsha ll, Mrs. Morris and Miss Holley patiently guided us through the dark forests and lush meadows of American history and literature,