It's the people who make the Over the Mountain area schools some of the best in the state and also the nation. So this year, we've decided to highlight some of the individuals who make our schools so special. Whether it's a teacher who goes the extra step or a standout student, together they make our schools what they are. Meet some of the OTM area's shining stars.Flash … [Read more...]

By Laura McAlister Journal EditorBeing named the state's top Lincoln-Douglas debater was quite an honor for Wyatt Moore. But he's still got one more year of high school, and his plans are to top that.Last school year, Wyatt's debating skills earned him the state's top spot in Lincoln-Douglas debate and received the Most Outstanding State Competitor award. The Mountain … [Read more...]

By Laura McAlister Journal EditorEven after three decades, Suzanne Culbreth's eyes light up and a big smile stretches across her face when she talks about teaching math.A former boss once described the Spain Park High School geometry teacher as someone who was just "born to teach." Suzanne couldn't agree more. She's always loved the discovery process with her students, … [Read more...]

By Laura McAlister Journal EditorWhile many other teenagers were spending their summers lounging by the pool, Homewood's Racquel Williams spent hers on stage.To those who know her, this is no surprise. The 16-year-old Homewood High School incoming junior has been performing since she was 2.Be it at school or church or maybe just in her living room among family and … [Read more...]

By Laura McAlister Journal EditorWhen school let out in May, Stephanie Tunnell didn't want to sit around and do nothing during her summer break. Instead, she opted to make a difference in a big way.For the past several weeks, the incoming eighth grader at Pizitz Middle School has been planning a flash mob and back to school bash. It may sound like fun and games, but … [Read more...]