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Morrow High School LatinX Club Opens Doors to New Members

by Ciara Perry

January 3, 2025 – Morrow, GA

Morrow High School’s vibrant LatinX Club is kicking off the new year with an open invitation to students eager to join a community celebrating Latinx culture, heritage, and unity. The club, a cornerstone of inclusivity and cultural exploration on campus, is now accepting new members.

Under the leadership of Mrs. Perez, the LatinX Club offers students the opportunity to engage in cultural events, community outreach programs, and educational activities that highlight the rich diversity and traditions of Latinx communities. From hosting celebrations like Día de los Muertos to organizing cultural showcases, the club provides a platform for students to learn, share, and grow.

“The LatinX Club is more than a group—it’s a family,” said Mrs. Perez. “We welcome anyone who wants to celebrate and learn about Latinx culture, regardless of their background. It’s a space for everyone to connect, share stories, and build lasting friendships.”

Membership is open to all Morrow High School students. Interested individuals can sign up or learn more by visiting Mrs. Perez in Room 2117 during school hours.

Don’t miss this chance to be part of a dynamic and supportive community that celebrates culture, fosters understanding, and makes a difference in the school and beyond.

For more information, contact Mrs. Perez

Finding Your Voice:

A Guide to Joining Toastmasters as

a High School Student

in Georgia

by Jovaria Rakestraw

For high school students, developing strong communication and leadership skills is a vital part of personal and academic growth. Toastmasters International, a renowned nonprofit organization, offers an excellent platform for students to hone these abilities. With clubs across Georgia, high school students have ample opportunities to join and thrive within this supportive community.

What is Toastmasters?

Toastmasters International is dedicated to helping individuals improve their public speaking, leadership, and interpersonal skills. Members participate in structured meetings that include activities like prepared speeches, impromptu speaking (Table Topics), and constructive evaluations. It’s a place where students can overcome their fear of public speaking, learn to articulate their ideas clearly, and build self-confidence.

Why Join Toastmasters as a High School Student?

High school students who join Toastmasters gain a competitive edge in several ways:

Improved Communication Skills: Learn how to express yourself effectively in both formal and informal settings.
Leadership Development: Take on leadership roles within the club and enhance your organizational skills.
College and Career Readiness: Strengthen your resume and prepare for college interviews or future job opportunities.
Networking Opportunities: Meet and learn from individuals of various backgrounds and experiences.
Self-Confidence: Build confidence that extends beyond the club, empowering you in all areas of life.

How to Join as a High School Student

In Georgia, high school students can join Toastmasters through several pathways:

Gavel Clubs: Specifically designed for youth under 18, Gavel Clubs follow the same structure as traditional Toastmasters clubs. Members work on their communication and leadership skills in a tailored, age-appropriate environment.
Community Clubs: Many local Toastmasters clubs welcome high school students. While these clubs are primarily for adults, they often encourage younger members to join and benefit from their experience.
School-Based Clubs: Some high schools in Georgia host Toastmasters clubs on campus. Check with your school’s extracurricular program to see if one is available.

Finding a Toastmasters Club in Georgia

To locate a club near you, visit the Toastmasters International website. Use the "Find a Club" tool by entering your location and filtering for clubs that meet your needs. Popular locations in Georgia with active Toastmasters clubs include:

Atlanta: Home to numerous community clubs and Gavel Clubs for youth.
Savannah: Known for its vibrant Toastmasters community.
Athens: Offers clubs close to the University of Georgia.
Columbus: Hosts several clubs welcoming young members.
Augusta: Features clubs with flexible meeting times for students.

Steps to Join

Attend a Meeting: Visit a club to observe how it operates and meet the members.
Submit an Application: Complete the membership form and pay any associated dues. Gavel Clubs often have lower fees, making them accessible for students.
Participate Actively: Once you join, engage in the activities, volunteer for roles, and start working through the Toastmasters educational pathways.

Do You Celebrate KWANZAA?

by Jovaria R.

Kwanzaa is a week-long celebration held in the U.S. and other nations in the world. African diaspora in the Americas to honor African heritage and culture. It takes place from December 26 to January 1.

The holiday was created by Dr. Maulana Karenga in 1966 during the Watts riots as a way to bring the African Americans together as a community. Kwanzaa is centered around seven core principles, known as the Nguzo Saba which are meant to reinforce the community among African Americans. The celebration involves various activities including lighting a kinara (candle holder) which holds seven candles. Each representing one of the principles. Participants also decorate their homes with art objects and colorful African cloth, particularly kente. The week of kwanzaa is filled with music , dance , poetry , storytelling and a large feast on the final day known as Karamu.

Community Buzz

Community Partnership Brings Holiday Cheer to Families in Need

by Chloe' Wright

Mrs. Pass-Brown, the Parent Resource Lead at Morrow High School, teamed up with members of the Divine Nine to make this year’s Angel Tree Project a success. Through their generous contributions, the initiative raised over $500 to support families within the school community during the holiday season.

Mrs. Pass-Brown expressed her gratitude for the collaboration and is already planning to partner with the Divine Nine again in 2025. Together, they aim to expand resources and opportunities for Morrow High School’s parents and students

The Divine Nine, also known as the National Pan-Hellenic Council (NPHC), represents nine historically Black Greek-letter organizations founded to promote unity, scholarship, leadership, and community service. These organizations emerged during a time when African Americans faced systemic exclusion from many social and academic opportunities, making them cornerstones of empowerment and advocacy in their communities.

Who Are the Divine Nine?
The Divine Nine consists of the following organizations, each with a rich history and a commitment to service:

Alpha Phi Alpha Fraternity, Inc. (1906) – The first intercollegiate historically Black fraternity, emphasizing scholarship, leadership, and community involvement.
Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority, Inc. (1908) – The first intercollegiate historically Black sorority, known for its focus on service to all mankind.
Kappa Alpha Psi Fraternity, Inc. (1911) – Dedicated to achievement in every field of human endeavor.
Omega Psi Phi Fraternity, Inc. (1911) – Founded on principles of manhood, scholarship, perseverance, and uplift.
Delta Sigma Theta Sorority, Inc. (1913) – Focused on public service, particularly initiatives that support the Black community.
Phi Beta Sigma Fraternity, Inc. (1914) – Committed to culture for service and service for humanity.
Zeta Phi Beta Sorority, Inc. (1920) – Known for its emphasis on scholarship, service, sisterhood, and finer womanhood.
Sigma Gamma Rho Sorority, Inc. (1922) – Focused on education and community uplift.
Iota Phi Theta Fraternity, Inc. (1963) – The youngest member of the Divine Nine, emphasizing scholarship, leadership, citizenship, fidelity, and brotherhood.