What's New at NCHS?
Holiday Spirit Contest Entries
Open the Google Forms below, view the digital entries, and cast your vote for your favorite song AND digital animation today, Monday, December 18! Voting will end at 3:15 p.m.
Get Ready for Christmas Spirit Week!
Student Council is hosting a Spirit Week to get you in the mood for the holidays. But this year, you can win prizes for participating and spreading some holidy cheer. To enter the contest, email a picture of yourself in your costume to Mrs. Luessenheide by noon on the day you would like to compete. Be sure to include your full name and your grade. There will be a winner chosen from each class each day. For more details, check your email or view the Student Announcements tab on the school website.
Image Credit: Google Images
Monday, December 11
Polar Express PJ Day
Thursday, December 14
Santa v. Grinch Day
Tuesday, December 12
White Out Day
Friday, December 15
Wacky Winter Clothes Day
Wednesday, December 13
Hawaiian Christmas Day
If you want to purchase and send a candy cane with a sweet message to a friend, see any Student Council Member, Mrs. Luessenheide, or Mrs. Robinson ASAP.
To view the Google Doc with contest details, click here.
It's Time to Donate for Donuts
Join FFA in gathering donations for the Survivor's Empowerment Center of Carbondale. All donations will be used to help women, men, and children fleeing domestic and sexual abuse.
Bring gently used or new clothes, as well as toiletries or specific items listed on the box in your Third Hour class. The collection ends on December 12, so bring your items as soon as possible.
Flyer credit: NCHS Webpage Class
Image Credit: Google Images
ATTENTION ALL STUDENTS, FACULTY, AND STAFF
The Blue Banner would LOVE to feature your favorite family photo of you with the BIG MAN himself, his jolly elves, or even his reindeer.
Email your favorite photo (yes, only one) to BOTH Mrs. Goostree and Mrs. Kollbaum for a chance to be featured in the Blue Banner. Let us know too the year the photo was taken.
The Shed Rises Again With the Help of NCHS Students
Mike Miller and his crew had just finished framing the shed, and the infamous June 30th storm knocked it down. In the past month, the shed has made its return, and the progress is going quickly. Two NCHS students - Oliver Ryterski and Logan Roesner - are spending every morning with Mike helping with the process. Oliver said once the framing was up they helped put up the rafters, toenails, brackets, and roof.
How did Oliver and Logan earn the chance to work on the shed each morning? They are students in Mr. Kell's Principles of Technology class. "One day he just asked if anyone had construction experience, and Oliver and I raised our hands," said Logan. Oliver said he has a lot of experience putting up sheds and doing construction projects for his family. "I'm just 'construction minded'," Oliver said.
The shed will have a wall dividing it in two halves. On one side, Mr. Miller will have his 'shop,' and the other side is going to be for storage for various NCHS items. It will eventually have power and water when it is done, and the rumor is that Mr. Welte's AC Fundamentals class will have a hand in the electrical wiring process. When asked what the most challenging part of the building was, Oliver said, "rain, wet ground, and lifting materials." Logan said there wasn't anything all that challenging beside the cold, but he did promise "it should look a lot better when it's done."
Thank you for all of your hard work, and we look forward to seeing this new addition to the NCHS campus take shape.
Photo Credit: Mrs. Goostree
It was too cold to be on the roof earlier this week, so Oliver and Logan are adding the walls.
NCHS Hosts Career Fair 2023
Every other year the NCHS Guidance Office sponsors a Career Fair for NCHS students. This year's fair offered 34 different options for the students, ranging from cosmetology to actuarial science to fire fighting to trades such as HVAC and iron working. Each 38 minute session allows the presenters to highlight their profession and offer educated responses to students' questions.
Sports Management presented by Jason Williams from Maryville University is always a crowd favorite.
Kevin Wheeler, the Automotive Learning Coordinator, from Kaskaskia College spoke about their Automotive Technician and Industrial Maintenance program.
TSgt Elyse Stamey from the United States Air Force presented.
Mimi Polczynski from Kaskaskia College educated students about radiology.
The U.S. Marines shared what makes the Marines special.
Brenda Engele spoke about court reporting / stenographer.
NCHS students used virtual reality technology to experience a myriad of occupations, including welding, surgical technologist, and emergency responder.
Isabella Lovin and Matthew Bielong grabbed their accounting freebies.
Kelli Malone from Kaskaskia College and NCHS alum Kris May, a student at Kaskaskia college, discuss the cosmetology program and career.
Blake Patton from Rend Lake College spoke about agriculture technology.
Robert Lee from the Iron Workers Local 392 explained the Iron Worker Apprenticeship Program.
Photo Credit: NCHS Teachers
SIUC Professors Dr. Marcus Odom and Benna Williams brought with them the 2023 National Tax Champions, including Lexie Lingle from Anna Jonesboro High School, Ben Morgan from Herscher High School in Kankakee, IL, and Jayda Smith from Marion High School.
The U.S. Army spoke to students.
Sgt. Zachary McDannel (Illinois Army National Guard) and Ofc.Michael Ronquillo (United States Coast Guard) explained how their programs worked and the careers available to them through enlistment in the National Guard and the Coast Guard.
The Law Enforcement session featured up to ten different officers, detectives, and investigators.
NCHS graduates Kyler Spencer and Kyler Klingenberg from FSM Wealth spoke with students. We love seeing NCHS alum giving back to their school.
Gloria Przygoda from Pinckneyville Community Hospital presented on the nursing profession, "the most trusted profession."
Seniors Sydney Brooks and Connor Davis loved the accounting swag.
Kelsey Tate from Kaskaskia College discussed the Career Pathways program offered through the KC website. Students got to explore the many class options and opportunities offered through the NCHS partnership with KC. Click this link to be directed to the KC Pathways online program.
Students in Mr. Patton's agriculture technology session had an opportunity to learn about the new John Deere sprayer. The computer system with this sprayer can determine how fast the chemicals need to be sprayed dependent on what crop is in the ground.
Gerry Dintelman, NCHS alum, educated the students about lighting design for concerts. Dintelman is a freelance designer and currently is employed by the bands Backseat Lover and Blondie.
Red Ribbon Week Dress Up Fun and Games!
THE dress up day all students love is pajama day. Mrs. Williamson's classes demonstrate the popularity of the plaid and print PJ pants.
On Multiples Day, many of the teachers had a matching Superhero. Mrs. Patton and Mrs. Goostree displayed the power color of red, while B Lunch teachers are the rest of the colors of the rainbow! 🌈
You're Never Too Old for Pumpkin Painting 🎃
One of the fun after school events planned by the Lifesavers was pumpkin and canvas painting. What a great way to end Red Ribbon Week!
The only limit is your imagination. And these imaginations had NO LIMITS!
Photo Credit: Vita Bartolotta, Caleb Decker, Landon Urbanski, Mrs. Heggemeier, Mrs. Schultz, and Mrs. Goostree
There were many Grandmas and Grandpas running around on dress like a grandparent day. Those mumus looked pretty comfortable.
Much of the fun is painting. But most of the fun is the opportunity to hang out with friends.
Pumpkins and Canvas Painting from Start ⬆️ to Finish ⬇️.
Super cool canvas and pumpkin paintings abound.
What COULD Your Future Hold?
This year, NCHS will once again host a Career Fair for the entire student body. The fair is taking place on Friday, October 27, 2023. The point of the Career Fair is to make us more aware of a variety of career options and to give us the opportunity to ask questions of someone in that field. Students will go to four different presenters using a schedule created for each individual. Students will follow the schedule by going from room to room to listen to the presentations. This event can allow our student body to explore different careers that we may be interested in and gain first-hand knowledge. Many of those coming to present were once students here at NCHS, which helps us gain an interesting perspective of the possibilities beyond our school walls.
~Landon Urbanski, Class of 2026
Don't forget to bring your Chromebook Friday!
DAR and SAR Award Recipients Announced
Congratulations to the Class of 2024 DAR and SAR Award winners Lucy Walters and Brady Stein.
The Daughters of the American Revolution (DAR) and Sons of the American Revolution (SAR) Awards are given annually to two seniors based on the qualities of dependability, service, leadership, and patriotism. Seniors are first nominated by NCHS Staff, and then voted on by their peers.
DAR and SAR Award winners have the opportunity to apply for additional scholarships and opportunities based on essays or activities performed reflecting the importance of being a good citizen.
Photo Credit: Mrs. Goostree
Annual Student Council Food Drive
Student Council will be doing their annual Food Scavenger Hunt on Wednesday, November 8, 2023 from 6:00 p.m. - 7:30 p.m. with pizza provided afterwards.
If you're interested in participating with an organization, talk to your sponsors and encourage them to use the form shared to the right.
If you're interested in participating as an individual, see Mrs. Robinson or Mrs. Luessenheide and they will get you on a team.
Get Ready for Red Ribbon Week 2023
Red Ribbon Week is next week, and Lifesavers has great activities prepared for you. Mark your calendar, and listen for announcements to learn how to sign up.
Tuesday, October 24: Bingo and Board Games in the Cafeteria from 4:00 - 6:00 p.m. After a group Bingo game, have fun playing games you can bring from home. Don't forget to bring your snacks. Attendance prizes and Bingo winners will be rewarded.
Wednesday, October 25: Scavenger Hunt and Costume Contest in the Cafeteria from 5:00 - 6:30 p.m. Come dressed in your favorite costume and head out for a scavenger hunt. Prizes will be given for Best Costume, Best Team Score, and Attendance.
Thursday, October 26: Pumpkin Painting and Movie Night in the Cafeteria from 4:00 - 6:00 p.m. Bring your favorite snacks and a pumpkin to paint. Plastic pumpkins and small canvases will also be available. Attendance prizes will be given.
Monday, 10/23: Pajama Day. "Wake Up Drug Free"
Tuesday, 10/24: Grandma and Grandpa Day "Grow Old Drug Free"
Wednesday, 10/25: Multiples Day "Team Up Against Drugs"
Thursday, 10/26: Wear Red Day "Put a STOP to Drugs"
Friday, 10/27: Spirit Day "Better Together, Drug and Bully Free
Image Credit: Google Images
What Do You Love About Fall?
That crisp air we're feeling this week should make the majority who completed our survey happy. But don't worry, Halloween is just around the corner. Whatever the reason you enjoy the season, thanks for sharing your favorite things about Fall!
Food Drive Scheduled for October 10th-20th
The Kindness Committee is sponsoring a food drive to help the food pantry in Nashville. The BCMW serves residents in Washington, Clinton, Marion, and Bond counties, and there is an urgent need for resupply.
Donations will be collected in first hour classes. Examples of items you can donate are included on the flyer to the right. Be sure to listen to your first hour teachers and the morning announcements for more details.
If you have questions about donations, please see Mrs. Jen Maschhoff, or email her at jmaschho@nashville-k12.org.
Flyer designed by Mackenzie Bauza
Homecoming Dance 2023
A Rootin' Tootin' Good Time Had By All
Tyler and Ethan are embrace the Western theme.
Mrs. Robinson and Mrs. Bergmann got a front row seat to see students all the glitz and glamour.
Brooklyn, Savannah, Grace, Nori, Faith, and Rei are having a great time!
Is it even a party if there's no line dance?
Best selfie ever.
Photo Credit: Caleb Decker
Homecoming Football Game 2023
It was a definite battle on the gridiron for the Hornets against the Frankfort Redbirds on Friday, September 22, 2023. The score was back and forth multiple times, but the good guys emerged victorious with a final score of Nashville 48 - Frankfort 42. The Hornets are 4 - 1 on the season.
IMG_4145.MOVJunior Will Diedrich moves the ball forward.
IMG_4152.MOVSenior Blaine Emrick recovers Brynner Inman's kick and celebration ensues.
IMG_4193.MOVThe Marching Band has now fully integrated all six songs into their competition show.
ABBY KNEPP was voted and crowned the 2023 Homecoming Queen at halftime of the football game. Friend and fellow senior Parker Renken served as Abby's escort. Congratulations, Queen Abby.
Thank you, NCHS Student Council and Sponsors, for planning and supporting a fantastic 2023 Wild West Homecoming. Your hard work and dedication to NCHS is not overlooked.
Photo Credit: Facebook, Rei Waldman // Video Credit: Mrs. Kollbaum
IMG_4146.MOVSenior quarterback JT Malawy advances the ball.
IMG_4184.MOVMalawy connects with junior Daven Hug for significant yardage.
Band's endzone view of the game
IMG_4186.MOVsenior Zeke Kinder on the "Walk This Way" solo in the new addition to the competition show
Homecoming Parade 2023
Legs Contest Winners: Joel Bergmann and Lilly Redman
NCHS Cross Country
National Honor Society
Sophomore Class of 2026 Float
Junior Class of 2025 Float
Photo Credit: Mrs. Kollbaum and Facebook
First Place Float -- Senior Class of 2024
Second Place Float -- Freshman Class of 2027
Senior Homecoming Queen Candidates Mackenzy Pedtke, Abby Knepp, Lucy Walters, Brooke Harris, and Tailer Pelczynski
Sophomore Attendant Jadyn Dees and sophomore candidates Lily Emge, Aubrey Rhine, Austi Gale, and Hanley Presswood
Junior Attendant Sailor Gutzler-Dlubala with junior candidates Cheyenne Harris, Carly Kasten, Raelynn Pieszchalski, and Mia Vogt
Freshman Attendant Claire Stiegman and freshman candidates Peyton Goforth, Mylah Grapperhaus Bateman, Lila Kozuszek, and Reagan Robinson
Homecoming 2023 Assembly
The freshmen weren't shy about chanting.
The sophomores joined in the cheering.
The juniors chanted "Nashville."
The seniors brought some EXTRA noise.
Devin Schill stunned the crowd with his toe-touching jumps.
IMG_4012.MOV
Excellent cartwheel form, gentlemen.
The NCHS Band Members are the DEDICATED first ones in the Assembly Hall and the last ones to leave.
We love this POSITIVE SCHOOL SPIRIT photo.
Send your BEST photos to either Mrs. Goostree at mgoostre@nashville-k12.org or Mrs. Kollbaum at skollbau@nashville-k12.org for possible inclusion in the Blue Banner.
Matt Wright, Gunnar Lanham, Aubrey Rhine, Peyton Maschhoff, Ava Kinder, Maliah Riechmann, and Lily Emge
Photo Credit: Anna Carr
Country v. Country Club Day 2023
Country Club VIBE CHECK from Jackson Harre, Byron Johnson, and Breckin Baum (above), and Marley Meinert, Evelyn Reams, Jenna Kujawa, and Siena Popejoy (below).
Emma Behrmann, Lucy Walters, and Ellie Bartling (above) show us Country Club and Country can co-exist!
Principles of Tech class seems a bit more divided with Country Boys Oliver Ryterski, Bennet Witte, Quentin Stanley, and Brenden Frieman facing off with Country Club Gentelmen Dominic Beaty, Connor Davis, and Kolt Dieker (pictured at right).
Photo credits: Vita Bartolotta, Merytt Zgonina, and Mrs. Goostree
Great Senior support of Thursday's theme. Above, the Country Club "pinkies out" from Cindy Guinup, Brooke Harris, Tanner Brooks, Harrison Zgonina, and Blaine Emrick VERSES the laid back Country from Dakota Bannert, Lia Bulger, and Hailee Grzegorek. Below, it's all Country from Seniors Sydney Brooks, Riley Barbee, Makenzie Pedtke, Ella Wessleman, and Alissa Tyler.
Western Day 2023
Oliver Ryterski, Colten Tomaszewski, and Logan Roesener achieve the theme trifecta: boots, denim, and Cowboy hats.
One of those hats is not like the other, though, and Mr. Begando LOVED the feathers.
There's a new sheriff in town, and his name is Brady Stein. It looks like he's proudly arresting Blaine Emrick.
Not the Journey Barbie Expected
Brooke Harris and Tanner Brooks do a great impression of Western Barbie and Ken getting arrested.
Photo Credit: Colten Tomaszewski, Vita Bartolotta, Jaylin Stofferhan, and Leo Dunahee
The Three Vaqueros! Vita Bartolotta, Ashley Lappe, and Jaylin Stofferhan celebrate in Spanish class.
DENIM DAY 2023
Kaitlynn Whaley and Bryna Jablonski rockin' their denim after playing some good tunes!
Mrs. Heggemeier and Mrs. O'Rear came to school prepared!
Photo and Caption Credit: Landon Urbanski
Image Credit: Google Images
Sophomores Aubrey Rhine, Maliah Riechmann, and Gunnar Lanham wearing their stylish denim while picking their research paper topics.
Freshmen Chloe Kurwicki, Karlie Stein, and Khloe Hollowell were cheering on the Varsity Hornets at the game against Anna Jonesboro on Friday.
Above Photo Credit: Karlie Stein
Left Photo Submissions: Peyton Ingram
The BLUE BANNER loves getting PHOTOS OF NCHS students, faculty, and staff displaying their POSITIVE SCHOOL SPIRIT at events.
FLANNEL DAY 2023
Photo Credit: Anna Carr and Vita Bartolotta // Image Credit: Google Images
It's On...Floatbuilding, That Is!!
Mrs. Heggemeier shared that "the senior class is out to win the class float competition. On Saturday the seniors worked tirelessly for 4-1/2 hours down at the fairgrounds. On Sunday we were back at it from 3 p.m. - 7 p.m. We did see a few juniors and sophomores. We're not sure what the class of Class of 2027 is up to???????" There is sure to be a solid competition for FLOAT BRAGGING RIGHTS with these groups of students and their sponsors.
Photo Credit: Mrs. Heggemeier
Seniors stop for a photo break.
Sophomores pose from their hard work.
RIDDLE QUESTION
Anyone know what's missing here under this Buzz, Buzz heading?!?
RIDDLE ANSWER
PHOTOS OF NCHS students, faculty, and staff displaying their POSITIVE SCHOOL SPIRIT at events.
Next time you are in the stands at a football game or marching band competition, snap a photo of you and your friends. Or when you're packing the volleyball gym, the sidelines of the cross country or golf course, or the auditorium before musical rehearsal, grab your phone and your besties and take a picture. Send those photos to either Mrs. Goostree at mgoostre@nashville-k12.org or Mrs. Kollbaum at skollbau@nashville-k12.org for possible inclusion in the Blue Banner.
The HORNET field doesn't get ready by itself for those Friday Night Lights games. It takes the work of many dedicated NCHS staff members and volunteers. Mr. Renth, Athletic Director and P.E. teacher, took some time 5th hour to spray paint on the yard line numbers for the face off against the Anna Jonesboro Wildcats. GO BIG BLUE!!
Photo Credit: Peyton Ingram
Marine Corps Recruiters Visit NCHS
Mrs. Spenner spoke with Major Alexander Irion about a potential visit from him with her Workplace Communications class.
If interested in more information about the Marines, contact Major Irion at alexander.irion@marines.usmc.mil.
IMG_4730.MOVNew Marine recruit?!?!?
Photo Credit: Mrs. Kollbaum // Video Credit: Mr. Turner
Guidance Office Request
Attention ALL Students: You have received a Needs Assessment Survey from the guidance office in your email. The Guidance Office asks that you please complete the survey by Friday, September 15, 2023.
If you have any questions, see your counselor.
Image Credit: Google Images
NCHS School Spirit
Seniors Brooke Harris, Aubrey Fernandez, Alissa Tyler, Merytt Zgonina, Shelby Thorson, and Zoe Lopez dedicated their time to supporting all NCHS students in the HALL OF SPIRIT.
Speaking of SCHOOL SPIRIT, the Blue Banner would LOVE to feature photos of NCHS students, faculty, and staff displaying their POSITIVE SCHOOL SPIRIT at events. So the next time you are in the stands at a football game or marching band competition, snap a photo of you and your friends. Or when you're packing the volleyball gym, the sidelines of the cross country or golf course, or the auditorium before musical rehearsal, grab your phone and your besties and take a picture. Send those photos to either Mrs. Goostree at mgoostre@nashville-k12.org or Mrs. Kollbaum at skollbau@nashville-k12.org for possible inclusion in the Blue Banner.
Still looking for a new organization / club to join this school year? The NCHS Pep Club would LOVE to welcome you to their NEST. Be listening for announcements for the first meeting time and place.
Photo Credit: Aubrey Fernandez
The Blue Banner Needs You!
The Blue Banner is a collection of digital news and information about activities at Nashville High School. This site is updated regularly with announcements, stories, images, and video that showcase the opportunities and good things happening at NCHS. We need your help to make Blue Banner a reflection of our school community. If you are interested, click the Blue Banner Survey button below by Friday, September 8, 2023.
Every class needs LEADERS, and these students are the voices for their classes.
SENIOR CLASS OFFICERS
President Tailer Pelczynski, Secretary Abby Knepp, Vice President Lucy Walters, Treasurer Joel Bergmann
JUNIOR CLASS OFFICERS
President Quentin Pedtke, Vice President Lainey Fletcher, Secretary Chloe Maschhoff, Treasurer Calvin Endres
Photo Credit: Mrs. Kollbaum, Tailer Pelczynski, and Jaylen Jones // Image Credit: Google Images
SOPHOMORE CLASS OFFICERS
Treasurer Tessa Bergmann, Secretary Brynn Stiegman, President Jaylen Jones, Vice President Lily Tejada
FRESHMAN CLASS OFFICERS
President Clara Kozuszek, Vice President Karlie Stein, Secretary Reagan Robinson, Treasurer Lila Kozuszek
STUDENT COUNCIL REPRESENTATIVES 2023 - 2024
SENIORS: Lucy Walters, Aubrey Fernandez, Joel Bergmann, Brayden Hunter, Merytt Zgonina, and Brooke Harris
JUNIORS: Addison Stambaugh, Claire Greten, Calvin Endres, Quentin Pedtke, Brance Luessenheide, and Therese Herrmann
SOPHOMORES: Grace Stein, Makayla Winka, Lily Emge, Aubrey Rhine, Austi Gale, and Bailey McBride
FRESHMEN: Lucas Bielong, Clara Kozuszek, Jayla Ledford, Evie Reams, Reagan Robinson, and Lila Kozuszek
"Before you are a LEADER, success is all about GROWING yourself. When you become a LEADER, success is all about GROWING others."
~ Jack Welch
Photo Credit: Mrs. Kollbaum
Welcome to NCHS, Class of 2027!
We were happy to meet and welcome the Class of '27 at Freshmen Academy on Friday, August 11. It was a great day of learning the ropes before the chaos of school began.
Healthy Device Habits
Freshmen Ava Witte and Lexy Spratt check their weekly screentime. Does that say 6 hours and 16 minutes?
Freshmen watch Senior Peer Mentors demonstrate examples of Academic Dishonesty so they know what to avoid.
Teambuilding
20230811_091622.mp4The school song, "Illinois Loyalty," is a surefire way to build the teamwork vibe. Click the video above to enjoy this enthusiastic renditions by senior peer mentors.
Senior Peer Mentors Makenzy, Dallas, Jordan, Lucy, and Joel check their screentime for the week.
Academic Integrity
Senior Rheanna Kiefer seems to put some hard core pressure on Senior Hailee Grzegorek to cheat. Will she crack?
Communication and trust are the keys to winning the blindfolded obstacle course.