Gulf Pine Catholic

Gulf Pine Catholic • February 21, 2020 19 Spotlight on Schools OLF Elementary held their annual science fair earlier this month and received a number of outstanding exhibits. After reviewing all the entries, the judges selected 33 entries to represent OLF Elementary in the MS Region VI Science and Engineering Fair to be held at the MS Coast Coliseum on Tuesday, March 24. “Science fair projects are an activity that integrates many of the skills learned in the classroom,” said principal Cindy Hahn. “Projects can involve reading, writing, grammar, math, statistics, and data analysis. It also allows students to practice their public speaking and defend their work in front of a panel of judges.” Sixth grader Abi Poole is pictured with her organic chemistry science fair project. Marcia Todd was recently selected by WLOX-TV for a recent segment of their “South Mississippi Strong” series. “South Mississippi Strong” is a weekly feature by WLOX-TV to recognize local individuals who make a difference in our community. For nearly 45 years, Todd has served Our Lady of Fatima Elementary as a teacher, crossing guard, and volunteer. She began work at OLF Elementary in 1975 when the principal needed a third grade teacher. The rest is history as she became a main stay at the school. After retirement from the classroom, she volunteered as a crossing guard on Jim Money Road. Her secret to success as a crossing guard -- smile at the drivers. “Tell them it’s a great day,” said Todd. Our Lady of Fatima Elementary, Biloxi Three Our Lady Academy, Bay St. Louis, seniors earn spots on MS Coast All-star soccer team Our Lady Academy seniors Ashlyn Davis, Elizabeth Elkins, and Paige Palazzo were selected to the third annual Mississippi Coast All-Star Soccer team. Teams are designated as either east side or west side divisions. Our Lady Academy and Gulfport team up as the west side versus Biloxi, George County, and Ocean Springs together comprise as the east side team. Nick Middleton, head coach for the Crescents, said, “These young ladies have shown excellent leadership, discipline, and spirit throughout their time of being an OLA soccer player. Being selected for the Coast All-Star game is a fantastic way to finish up their high school soccer careers.” Davis, an honors student and a four-year letterman, has been a member of the OLA varsity soccer team since eighth grade. She is president of the Crescent Athletic Club and a member of the National Honor Society, Mu Alpha Theta Mathematics Honor Society, and the Spanish Honor Society. Davis plans to attend the University of Mississippi in the fall and pursue a degree in the pharmaceutical field. Elkins, an honors student and a three-year letterman, has been president of her class for three years. She is a member of the National Honor Society, Mu Alpha Theta Mathematics Honor Society, Spanish Honor Society, Yearbook Club and an OLA Ambassador. Currently she serves as secretary of the Campus Ministry, and a member of the quiz bowl team. Elkins plans to attend a four-year college and enter into the medical field. Palazzo, an honors student and a five-year starter for OLA, was selected to the 2A Region 8 MHSAAAll Region Team and also selected to play in the Mississippi Coast All Star Game for the 2017 and 2018 seasons. She is member of the National Honor Society, Mu Alpha Theta Mathematics Honor Society, Spanish Honor Society and an OLAAmbassador. Palazzo has signed a soccer scholarship with the University of West Florida to play goalkeeper in the fall and pursue a major in mechanical engi- neering. OLA principal Marilyn Pigott said, “We are proud of all three seniors. To have three of our players chosen to be a part of this elite team is a reflection of their dedication and commitment to the sport. I commend them for balancing sports, organizations, and academics all maintaining honors status here at OLA. They are three outstanding young ladies on and off the field. We wish them the best in the future.” Ashlyn Davis, Elizabeth Elkins, and Paige Palazzo All-Star Soccer Team Members