2012 Academic Monogram Night

By 7 p.m. on Monday, Oct. 22, Urbana High School’s Oscar Adams Gymnasium was filled with many voices chattering together. Parents, friends, and teachers sat on looking the rows of students’ chairs. This assembly was due to the school’s Annual Academic Monogram ceremony – which serves as incentive for students to achieve good grades and rewards them from their hard work.

Each student who attended was honored for having maintained a 4.0 grade point average (GPA) or higher, being enrolled in at least four non-physical education classes, and receiving no F’s. Students were separated by grade level; sophomores, juniors, and seniors. First-time recipients were given an academic letter, second-time recipients; a shield, and third-time; a pin. Additionally, students with the top five GPA scores in each class received a book from the administration.

The UHS Honors Choir, singing “The Star Spangled Banner” and “The Moon is Distant from the Sea,” and the UHS Clarinet Choir, playing “Caprice for Clarinets,” performed for the guests.

Following opening remarks, guest speaker Dr. Jennifer Ivory-Tatum was introduced and spoke of the value of education, preparing for the future, and how much work students, parents, and teachers have put in to see a student achieve academic success. Ivory-Tatum had been invited by students to past Academic Monogram nights several times.

Three students were selected to give speeches about a UHS teacher that they admire and respect. Senior Cate Hummel wrote about Kristine Sherrick (business education teacher), Senior Steven Kemball wrote about Jeff Davis (social studies teacher), and Junior Sara McPike wrote about Darren Hicks (music coordinator).

The Academic Monogram event is a night of pride for UHS and is enjoyed by students and guests of all ages.

Considering the success of UHS sports this year, it is nice to also take the time to recognize the school’s academic achievements and hardworking students.