First volleyball meeting held

The first East Middle School volleyball team meeting was held Wednesday after school in Mr. Mike Wallace's room. Practice will begin tonight.

Open house held Monday night

Open house was held Monday night as East Middle School students prepared for their first day of school Wednesday.

Parents and students had the opportunity to talk with teachers, find out what supplies were needed and learn about the classes. They also picked up schedules.

Audio: Dr. Huff thanks teachers, challenges them during opening day rally

Teachers return to work

Though most of East Middle School's faculty members have been in their classrooms preparing for the 2012-2013 school year, today is the first official day for teachers to report to work.

The day began with all staff members attending the annual pep rally and meeting, held this year at the John Q. Hammons Center.

The program included a speech from Herschend Family Enterprises (including Silver Dollar City) CEO Peter Herschend, who said, "Missouri is watching Joplin and the nation is watching Joplin," as we continue the recovery process from the May 22, 2011, tornado.

Also featured in the program:

-Announcement of Golden Eagle and Golden Wing winners including East's Mrs. Angel Mense, Mr. Michael Lawrence, Ms. Sue Macy, and Ms. Mona Redding.

-A speech from Dr. C. J. Huff, superintendent

-Video welcomes from Gov. Jay Nixon, and other celebrities and Joplin business leaders

-The presentation of the first Golden Legacy Award to former Mayor Mike Woolston.

Mrs. Wallace returns to East

Many new faces will greet East Middle School students when they return next week for the 2012-2013 school year, but there will also be a familiar face returning.

Mrs. Jennifer Wallace, who previously taught at East, will return to teach seventh grade reading. She replaces Mrs. Linda Patton (formerly Weaver), who is now the sixth grade social studies teacher.

Mrs. Wallace and her daughter, Ilah, an eighth grader at East, worked hard this week getting her classroom ready. Another member of the Wallace clan, eighth grade science teacher Mr. Mike Wallace, is also at East.

Sixth grade academy prepares newcomers to East

Sixth graders for the 2012-2013 school year received their introduction to such concepts as middle school classes, lockers, and changing teachers every hour during the annual sixth grade academy held earlier this month at East Middle School.

More photos from the academy can be found at the Journalism Club Facebook Page.

East Feast held in Landreth Park

It's another sign that school is right around the corner.

The second annual East Feast was held Friday evening in Landreth Park. The first one was held at the school last year to give parents and students an opportunity to look at the new facility.

Activities this year included sand volleyball, badminton, music, and food.

More photos from the event can be found on the Journalism Club's Facebook page.