Eighth graders at Washington-Wilkes Middle School recently participated in the Battle of Kettle Creek Poster Contest. The winners were honored on Saturday, February 9, at the 229th Anniversary Celebration of the Battle of Kettle Creek at the Wilkes County courthouse. Betty Slaton presented the certificatesand cash awards to each winner. The winners also had the opportunity to walk in the parade with Wilkes County Teacher of the Year, Michelle Smith, and Lily Crowe from the Mary Willis Library. Taking first place was Rebecca Wilson. The second place winner was Brittany Guin and tied for third place were Jordan Echols and Europe Wylie. We would like to congratulate all the winners and thank them for participating in the contest.

On February 8, Katy Meech, W-WMS Georgia History teacher, had the privilege of having a guest speaker speak with her eighth grade students about the Battle of Kettle Creek. The guest speaker was Walker Chewning. Mr. Chewning is the president of the Button Gwinnett Chapter of the National Society of the Sons of the American Revolution. He spoke to the students about the importance of the Battle of Kettle Creek and its significanceto the winning of the Revolutionary War. Chewning was dressed in an authentic colonial uniform. He showed the students many artifacts including homemade soap, musket balls, flint strikers, and rations. Mrs. Meech and her students would like to thank Mr. Chewning for taking the time to come and share his knowledge of the Battle of Kettle Creek with them. Washington-Wilkes "Revolutionary Days" was held February 8, 9, and 10.

Shannon Thomason would like to thank the students, staff, and community for supporting our winter book fair. Thanks to all of you it was a success. All funds raised go towards buying Accelerated Reader books and purchasing incentives for the students.

There will be no school on February 15, 18, and 19. We hope that all the staff and students enjoy their winter break.

Yearbooks are still on sale for $26. The cost may be paid in full or in two installments of $13. If you or your student is interested in purchasing a yearbook, please see Joni Keiser, Dawn Pickens, or Pam Hall. Yearbooks are sold on a first come first serve basis until they run out. There are approximately 60 yearbooks remaining for purchase. Please do not delay if you are interested in purchasing a yearbook.