Issue 2: Falling into Focus
Photo taken by Chance Archer
School and Academics
Sustainable Steps: Environmental Clubs Lead the Way at Patrick Henry and Hanover
The Environmental Club is in full swing at both Patrick Henry and Hanover! The Environmental Club aims to make the world a cleaner and better place to live, starting with its surrounding area--the school it exists in. Both Environmental Clubs take part in recycling and cleanup in and around their schools, as well as many more activities that help the members learn and help the environment around them at the same time. This past month, the Hanover Monthly interviewed Mrs. Dandridge, the Patrick Henry sponsor of the Environmental Club, to catch up on the club’s plans for this year. “This year, we plan to continue the School Recycling Program and make student-initiated improvements. We also plan to conduct regular clean-ups of the school grounds, participate in school-wide events, and (hopefully) update the courtyard across from the library to be an example of a sustainable schoolyard habitat,” said Dandridge.
The Patrick Henry Environmental Club kicked off in mid-September and has gotten a head start on its activities for the year. When asked about the club's progress so far, Mrs. Dandridge answered, “Thus far, we have had several introductory meetings and students have begun recycling. Recycling teams comprise a small group of students and a student captain. The captains are responsible for coordinating with their group to recycle twice a month and recording attendance.” Mrs. Dandridge continues to lead recycling and clean-up efforts. The club provides members with opportunities to participate in sustainability practices and aims to encourage the school community to adopt more environmentally friendly habits.
To learn more about the Patrick Henry and Hanover Environmental Clubs, follow the clubs’ Instagram accounts:
Written by Marley Francis
Inside AP: A Student’s Guide to Advanced Placement
Advanced Placement (AP) classes are a way for students to learn and tackle college-level coursework while still being in high school. These courses also give students a chance to earn college credit through qualifying exam scores. The rigorous coursework also allows students to gain experience and prepare themselves for college.
Hanover County Public Schools offer these courses in a variety of different subjects. For your school's specified areas, reach out to your advanced studies coordinator. All of these courses are year-long and earn you one weighted credit, some of these courses include:
English 11: Language and Composition AP
- This introductory college-level composition course is offered at the 11th grade level. In the course, students will deepen their understanding of writing and rhetorical arguments through reading, analysis, and more.
English 12: Literature and Composition AP
- This course is offered at the 12th grade level. While enrolled, students will examine authors’ and poets’ use of descriptive language as well as gain analysis and composition skills.
Music Theory AP
-This course is offered at the 10th, 11th, and 12th grade levels. While in this course, students will learn to identify features of pitch, interval, scales and keys, chords, meter, rhythm, and other musical concepts within performed and notated music.
2D Design I &II AP
- 2D Design I is offered to 11th and 12th grade levels and 2D Design II is only offered to the 12th grade level. In these courses, students will develop skills to guide artmaking through experimentation, and revision of materials, processes, and ideas. These skills will then be used through graphic design, sequential art, photography, collage, printmaking, illustration, industrial design, animation, and more.
United States History AP
- This college-level introductory course is offered to 11th and 12th graders. While enrolled, students will examine the nation’s political, diplomatic, intellectual, cultural, social, and economic history from the pre-Columbian period (1490s) to the present.
United States Government and Politics AP
- This is a course that is offered at the 10th, 11th, and 12th grade levels. This course will provide students with the ability to analyze documents like the Constitution and the Federalist Papers as well as reverie significant Supreme Court case decisions. Argumentative writing skills will also be developed through this course
Psychology AP
- This course is offered at the 10th, 11th, and 12th grade levels. In this course, you will be introduced to the systematic and scientific study of human behavior and mental processes. You will also explore and apply psychological theories, and key concepts in relation to biological bases of behavior, cognition, development, learning, social psychology, personality, and mental and physical health.
European History AP
- This course is offered at the 10th, 11th, and 12th grade levels. In this course, the history of countries such as France, England, Spain, and many others from 1450 to the present will be explored. Throughout the course, key concepts are covered and political, social, economic, cultural, and intellectual developments that shaped Europe will be uncovered.
Human Geography AP
- This introductory college-level course is offered at the 9th, 10th, 11th, and 12th grade levels. Topics such as patterns and spatial organization, human impacts and interactions with their environment, and spatial processes and societal changes are explored.
Calculus AB AP
- This introductory college-level course is offered at the 11th and 12th grade levels. While enrolled, concepts like change, limits, and the analysis of functions will be explored; engaging with real-world problems represented graphically, numerically, analytically, and verbally and using definitions and theorems to justify conclusions to deepen understanding.
Statistics AP
- This introductory college-level course is offered at the 10th, 11th, and 12th grade levels. This course will explore major concepts and tools for collecting, analyzing, and drawing conclusions from data. Understanding will be developed by using technology, investigations, problem-solving, and writing; focusing on concepts like variation and distribution; patterns and uncertainty; and data-based predictions, decisions, and conclusions.
Calculus BC AP
- This introductory college-level course is offered at the 11th and 12th grade levels. While in this course, students will develop an understanding of differential and integral calculus, exploring concepts like change, limits, and the analysis of functions. Skills will be improved through real-world problems represented graphically, numerically, analytically, and verbally and using definitions and theorems to justify.
Computer Science AP
- This introductory college-level computer science course is offered at the 11th and 12th grade levels. Students will explore concepts like modularity, variables, and control structures and develop their understanding of coding through analyzing, writing, and testing code.
Computer Science Principles AP
- This introductory college-level computing course is offered to 10th, 11th, and 12th graders. Enrolled students will learn to design and evaluate solutions and to apply computer science to solve problems. Students will also gain the skill to explain how computing innovations and computing systems work, explore their potential impacts, and contribute to a computing culture.
Biology AP
- This introductory college-level course is offered at the 11th and 12th grade levels. In this course, inquiry-based investigations will be used to explore and understand topics like evolution, energetics, information storage and transfer, and system interactions.
Chemistry AP
- This introductory college-level course is offered at the 11th and 12th grade levels. Topics covered in this course include atomic and molecular structure, chemical reactions, kinetics, equilibrium, and thermodynamics. Exploring these topics will be supported by inquiry-based investigations.
Physics C AP: Mechanics
- This college-level physics course is offered at the 11th and 12th grade levels. This course is best for students planning to major or specialize in physical sciences or engineering. Concepts like change, force interactions, fields, and conservation will be explored through in-class activities.
Environmental Science AP
- This course is offered at the 10th, 11th, and 12th grade levels. This course will focus on four big ideas: energy transfer, interactions between different earth systems, interactions between different species, and the environment and sustainability. The students will deepen their understanding through inquiry-based labs and fieldwork.
Physics I AP: Algebra-Based
- This introductory college-level course is offered at the 10th, 11th, and 12th grade levels. While enrolled, students will learn concepts like systems, fields, force interactions, change, and conservation through in-class activities.
Physics II AP: Algebra-Based
- This course is offered at the 11th and 12th grade levels. In this course, students will learn about thermodynamics, electricity and magnetism, and quantum, atomic, and nuclear physics. Students will be investigating these concepts with hands-on lab work.
Written by Arianna Salemme
Student Achievements
Hitting New Heights: Simone Lawson’s Game-Changing Commitment
Photo taken by Isabel Gonzalez
Committing to a college athletic program, especially at the Division I (D1) level, is no small grind. It takes dedication, consistency, and a strong work ethic to make it happen. One athlete, Simone Lawson, who recently committed to the Naval Academy, shared her journey and the mindset that pushed her to achieve this milestone.When asked why she chose the Naval Academy, she responded straightforwardly: “I was looking at my career not only for volleyball but after volleyball. I know I either want to work for the government or join the military as there are a lot of benefits, and you make good money.” For her, the decision wasn’t solely about athletics—it was about setting up a future she desired and could be proud of.
Committing early in her junior year was a no-brainer once she received an offer. She states, "The Naval Academy is my number one school, and I knew if they gave me an offer I would commit." This level of determination reflects her goals, which helped her make difficult decisions early on. She prioritized her long-term plans over waiting for other potential offers.
Her passion for volleyball started when her parents signed her up for a team, merely as an extracurricular activity. “I needed an extracurricular team,” she said, and what started as a way to stay active turned into something she’s still passionate about years later. Her love for the game is apparent in her intense training routine, which differs between high school and travel seasons: “During the high school season we practice every day, but during travel season we practice three times a week and I work out on weekends.”
It wasn’t just about finding the right fit for volleyball; it was about playing at the highest competitive level possible. “The competitive style of playing” motivated her to go D1, although the school was more important than the division. “I wasn’t concerned about the division, but my favorite school was D1.”
Looking forward, Ms. Lawson has big dreams beyond volleyball. “I would either want to be a pilot, do nuclear engineering, or do something with intelligence,” she stated, demonstrating that her dedication to excellence doesn’t stop on the court, it carries over into everything she does.
Written by Jes Roberts
Next-Level Athletes: Navigating the Recruiting Process
Another of our commits is Ellie Agustin from Hanover High School, who recently committed to run track and cross country at Lipscomb University, a D1 school. She has been a part of both the indoor track and cross country teams since her 8th grade year, and she joined the outdoor track team her freshman year. She has been a part of the varsity team for all three seasons since her freshman year. Her primary events are middle-distance to long-distance, but she has worked hard to excel in any event she is placed in. Additionally, she became a state champion in the two mile her junior year during indoor track, and she helped her team qualify for states three years in a row during her cross country season.
One of our first commits is Kaileigh Byars from Hanover High School. She committed to play D1 softball at the University of South Carolina during her junior year, making her one of the first Class of 2025 commits. Her position of choice is outfield, where she excels, but she is a very well-rounded player. Kaileigh has been on the varsity softball team since her freshman year and helped guide her team to states for several years, even being a key player during their 2022 season when the varsity softball team won states.
Read the interview below to hear more about Kaileigh and Ellie’s recruiting journey.
When did you start your sport?
Kaleigh Byars: I started around 5 or 6 I’d say.
Ellie Agustin: I started running in eighth grade to stay in shape for soccer. Then in my sophomore year, I quit soccer to commit to running full-time.
What made you want to continue your sport in college?
Kaleigh Byars: I’ve always wanted to play in college. I think it’s been a dream ever since I saw the college girls playing on the TV as a little girl.
Ellie Agustin: I didn't really consider running in college until my sophomore year. Before then, I thought I would just play soccer through high school, but then I really started to enjoy running.
Where are you going?
Kaleigh Byars: I’m going to the University of South Carolina to play softball.
Ellie Agustin: I am going to Lipscomb University to continue running Cross Country and Track.
What made you choose this school?
Kaleigh Byars: The atmosphere feels so comfortable and so much like home.
Ellie Agustin: The people were a big part of my decision. The girls were all very kind and supportive but also pushed each other to be their best. Another thing was the amazing team of coaches who worked as a group to support every athlete in the way they needed.
How does this process work for your sport?
Kaleigh Byars: In softball, college coaches can contact us on September 1st of our junior year. Coaches usually call you September 1st or the next day and then you set up visits with the schools you are most interested in.
Ellie Agustin: In track, colleges will start contacting you during your junior year. The process is mostly talking on the phone and it picks up around the winter and spring seasons. Then, in your senior year, you take your official visits.
Any advice for recruits trying to navigate this process?
Kaleigh Byars: My advice for recruits would be to trust your own process and your own path. Don’t compare yourself to others. Also, try to have fun with it because it’s supposed to be fun. Don’t let the process take the fun out of the sport.
Ellie Agustin: My advice for recruits would be to be confident in yourself. Trust you are a strong athlete and there is a right path for you. Also, I would remind recruits the coaches are talking to you for a reason–You are a talented athlete, but remember coaches don't just want amazing athletes. They want good teammates as well. Lastly, I would recommend being open to all types of schools because you may not know what you want until you've been on campus.
How did you prepare for phone calls and visits?
Kaleigh Byars: I prepared by doing mock calls and preparing questions to ask during both the visits and the phone calls.
Ellie Agustin: I prepared by writing a list of questions that I wanted to ask the coach and then also looking into which coach I was talking to. I would also recommend looking into the school before calls. Sometimes coaches like to ask “What do you know about my school?”
Any advice when talking to coaches?
Kaleigh Byars: Just be yourself. Have a normal conversation and don’t worry about saying all the right things.
Ellie Agustin: Be true to who you are. Don't try to act a certain way to make the coaches like you. I would also say to have a list of questions to ask and to also understand the coaches are human too so be respectful of their time.
What did you do on your visits?
Kaleigh Byars: We ate a lot, watched practice, went to a football game, went to Soda City, and toured campus. It was a great visit!
Ellie Agustin: We tried many popular food places, went to sports games, attended classes, did long runs with the team, attended church with the girl's team, and also spent time with the girls on the team. On your visits, the coaches are watching you, but they are also seeing how you interact with the girls on the team.
What were the things you were looking for in a school?
Kaleigh Byars: The biggest thing I was looking for was an environment that felt like home, which is what I found at USC. Plus, I wanted to make sure they taught the same things I was already doing so that I wouldn’t have to change everything once I got there.
Ellie Agustin: The biggest thing I was looking for in a school was a school that would support my goals, both athletically and academically. Another big thing I was looking for was a team environment that was supportive and where I would be pushed, but in a supportive way. I wanted to be able to compete at practice with my teammates, but I also knew that they were competing with me to push me to be better.
Who are your biggest supporters?
Kaleigh Byars: My biggest supporters are also my biggest motivation. My parents are definitely at the top, but I feel like there are so many people that support me and I’m so grateful for that because they push me to keep going. I don’t want to let them down.
Ellie Agustin: My family members are my biggest supporters. My mom drives me to all my races and always helps me to get in the right mindset when running. My dad helps me to break down the stats on what times I would like to hit. My siblings are always supportive of me and encourage me on my hard days. My nana and papa are my biggest fans and they try to come to as many races as they can. Lastly, my boyfriend is my biggest support. He encourages me to keep going and cheers me on when I have good races and bad races. His love and support make a huge difference in my life.
What do you plan to study in college?
Kaleigh Byars: I plan to study Sports Psychology in college!
Ellie Agustin: I plan to study Pre-med in college.
Written by Elliana Agustin (HHS)
Arts and Culture
Elf the Musical Unites Patriot Players and LMS
Things are truly sparklejollytwinklejingley as the Patriot Player’s production of Elf the Musical heads into its second month of production with spirits high and Christmas coming around early! The show, directed by Patrick Henry’s resident theater teacher Bethany Farris and co-directed by fellow faculty member Peyton Gemmell, is a heartfelt retelling of the classic 2003 Jon Favreau Christmas film starring Will Ferrell, now with a jazzy soundtrack and live presence to boot. The production stars Zachary Schoener as the titular Buddy the Elf, with Alana Sargent as Jovie and Charles King as Walter Hobbs. Rounding out the Hobbs family includes Nora-Jean Raso and Liberty Middle School student Jack Slaby as Emily and Micheal Hobbs respectively.
This particular production marks two major feats for the Patriot Players that have not been done in recent years, or maybe ever in the time of the program - at least simultaneously, that is. Firstly, Elf the Musical is proudly partnering with Liberty Middle School to bring their theater students to the high school stage, alongside the Liberty Middle School theater director Julie Hedrick to serve as the choreography director for the show. The LMS Players are extremely excited to be a part of such an incredible collaboration, so be sure to go out and support both your Patriots and your Eagles this time around! Secondly, Elf marks a special occasion for the Patriot Player’s season of shows: it is the first of two musicals this year, when traditionally only one is performed a year. Later on, the Patriot Players will be traveling to Olympus and beyond with The Lightning Thief. This season stacks itself up to be a hefty one for the Patriot Players, but they are all incredibly excited to take on such a task, with both the increased number of musicals, and the amount of times they will be performed; for instance, Elf is being performed six times, twice for varying elementary schools and four times for general audiences.
Be sure to come out to support theater students of both Liberty Middle School and Patrick Henry High School in their collaborated production of Elf The Musical! Shows are Thursday, Friday, and Saturday, December 5th through December 7th.
Written by Zachary Schoener
School Announcements
Designing the Future: Mechanicsville and Patrick Henry Students on New School Plans
With plans to reconstruct Mechanicsville and Patrick Henry High School in the future, three students had their share of input for the new models. A senior from Mechanicsville High School, Nick Jones, said that he “hopes to see better facilities in the future with an overall improvement in the design of the school buildings, along with the foresight of future wants.” Marcus Parrish, a Patrick Henry High School senior, takes his ideas from the recent construction of Ashland Elementary School, which includes a slide going down the stairs. He says that, “I want there to be a slip and slide going down the stairs, and even down the building.” To access these rooftop slides, he wants “randomly placed escalators. Just for fun.” Another improvement from Parrish was that Patrick Henry had their track around the football field. He says that because Patrick Henry can’t host track meets and the lost cost of track in general, the school is missing out on plenty of profit. Parrish followed this up with “I wish there was an outdoor pool, we could use it for a summer swim team.” Catherine Hanson, a junior from Patrick Henry, wishes for bigger hallways. “There are a lot of people that go to Patrick Henry, and it's a pretty small school, so I hope that they increase the size of the hallways in the new building,” she said.
Written by Finn Winegardner (PHHS)
Zoning Under Review: Hanover School Board Considers Solutions for Overcapacity Schools
Official photo provided by School Board Agenda
A new topic of discussion that was brought up at the school board meeting on Tuesday, October 8th, 2024 was the rezoning of Hanover County Public Schools. As of fall 2024, Cool Springs Elementary School is operating at 114% capacity, presenting a significant issue of overcrowding. Other schools, like Pearson's Corner Elementary and Kersey Creek, are already operating at over 80% capacity. Most of the schools that are being impacted by overcrowding are elementary schools.
The solution presented at the school board meeting was to begin a boundary adjustment process for the schools. The school board is using a third-party vendor to lead the process of drafting the adjustment options so the number of students would be redistributed to fit the appropriate occupancy at the schools. Further discussion and revision of the plan will continue throughout the year. If the plan to rezone goes into effect, it will start in the 2025-2026 school year.
Written by Kaitlyn Phillips
District Showdown: Atlee Takes the Win at Hanover County District Competition
Photo taken by Chance Archer
On Wednesday, October 9th, Hanover County Varsity Cheer teams competed against each other at districts. The competition was held at Hanover High School. The competing schools were Hanover, Mechanicsville, and Atlee High School. In a competition such as this, each team is expected to showcase a routine involving stunts, pyramids, tumbling, and more. However, these competitions don’t determine who goes to regionals. It is merely a way to allow each team to practice the art of competition. While all teams performed their routines uniformly down to the last stunt, a huge congratulations is owed to the Atlee Cheer team for their winning score.
Following the cheer competition, Cece Anacarrow, a Hanover High School varsity cheerleader, shared her valuable insights into the competition. Despite the loss, Anacarrow enjoyed getting the chance to compete as it allowed her to spend time with her teammates in preparation for the competition. Anacarrow talked about how, despite the loss, she and her teammates have learned from it and expect to give an even better performance at regionals in the upcoming weeks. “Now we have a little bit more confidence going into regionals this weekend because we competed and know what it feels like to win, we just have to work on our routine and practice,” Anacarrow said.
Before competitions and games, her and her teammates spend time together, highlighting the importance of a good team dynamic. She told The Hanover Monthly: “As a team, we kind of all get ready together, do our hair, and do our makeup together in the room. The team moms bring food and it’s a really good bonding experience.”
The competition offered Hanover County high schools a valuable opportunity to fine-tune their routines, make any final adjustments before regionals, and provide a lively, competitive atmosphere that allowed teams to showcase their skills.
Written by Evie Keener (HHS)
