William Byrd High School has announced the Terriers of the Month for October. The school is
partnering with Alcova Mortgage this year to recognize students and staff who “are doing great
things in and out of the classroom.”
All WBHS students and staff are encouraged to nominate individuals who they believe exhibit
the “Terrier Way” (being safe, respectful, and responsible and embodying the best of WBHS).
Eight students and four teachers are chosen each month. Each Terrier of the Month receives a T-
shirt designed by the Graphic Design classes at the high school.
Hemming (photos courtesy of WBHS)
Student Terriers of the Month for October are:
Jocelyn Hartman is a junior who was nominated for being kind and helpful. The teacher who
nominated Jocelyn said, “She works hard during class and at home to create the most incredibly
meaningful projects. When she is done with her work, she is always willing to help other
students. Jocelyn always has a smile and a positive attitude…and is a pleasure to teach.”
Luke Hemming is a junior who was nominated for always following the Terrier Way by being
safe, respectful, and responsible. The teacher who nominated Luke said, “He’s considerate, easy
going, a hard worker, and mature…every class, he arrives on time and is ready to give his best
effort with a smile.”
Jack Hinkle is a senior who was nominated for his kindness and spirit of generosity. The teacher
who nominated him said, “Jack is in my study hall and is always willing to help others with their
work…he’s a sweet kid who never talks down to his peers and is always willing to lend a helping
hand.”
Caden McReynolds is a freshman who was nominated for his courage and willingness to help
others. The staff member who nominated Caden said, “He snapped into action during a very
dangerous situation to help provide support and assistance to a student in need.”
Sarah Nguyen is a freshman who was nominated for her work ethic, intelligence, and
willingness to help others. The teacher who nominated Sarah said, “Sarah is quick to help her friends when they don’t understand a topic…she’s extremely respectful and a joy to have in the
classroom!”
Sydney Nichols is a freshman who was nominated for his willingness to help others. The teacher
who nominated him said, “Sydney is always willing to help his classmates with their work when
he is finished. Even if he isn’t finished, if a student needs help, he will pause his work to help
another friend. He never puts his peers down but lifts them up and is a joy in class.”
Nathan Short is a junior who was nominated for his willingness to help others. The teacher who
nominated Nathan said, “He doesn’t hesitate to help me clean up…and he does it in a quiet way
without saying anything to anyone so that the rest of the class is led by his actions…Nathan is
polite and respectful and just a pleasure to have in the room.”
Ian Vest is a senior and member of the football and lacrosse teams. Ian was nominated for his
positive attitude and the respect he shows toward teachers and staff. The teacher who nominated
him said, “He makes me smile and improves my mood with his positivity…he will always say
hello and greet staff in and outside of school.”
Teachers chosen as Terrier of the Month for October are:
Barbara McGrath teaches AP Biology. The students who nominated her highlighted her caring
and thoughtful nature in working with students. As one student said, “She is one of the most
caring teachers I have had the chance to learn from…she takes the time to learn about each
student as an individual and does whatever it takes to make class a stress-free environment.” Or
as another student simply put it, “She is very intent on making sure students succeed, with a
heart for her students and their success.”
Lauren Pearson teaches Algebra I and Advanced Geometry. The students who nominated her
highlighted her kindness and willingness to always help her students. One student said, “Ms.
Pearson is always kind to students…she always makes sure everyone is okay.” Another student
simply said, “She really cares about the well-being of students.”
Dan Plybon teaches Concert, Jazz, and Symphonic Band and coaches the Marching Band. The
students who nominated him highlighted his work ethic and commitment towards his students.
As one student said, “He works extremely hard to make sure his students are happy with what
they play in band…he also puts in so much effort to make sure the marching band has fun, while
getting work done.” Another student said, “He gives us valuable life lessons instead of just
teaching us what we need to know.”
Mary Jean Sullivan teaches Economics and Personal Finance. The students who nominated her
highlighted her positivity and ability to make class fun. One student said, “She genuinely tries to
relate to all students in class…even when the class gets chaotic, she tries to teach in a fun and
resolving manner that no one else can replicate…she’s the sweetest person, too!”
Congratulations, October Terriers of the Month!
Submitted by WBHS Assistant Principal Phillip Martin