The following are photographs taken and articles written by Rock Port High School students:
Blue Jays take on post season
by Jaylynn Jones
The Rock Port Blue Jays football team has had a stellar season, entering the postseason with an undefeated 9-0 record. As the team prepares for the challenges ahead, seniors Gabe Gebhards, Jadyn Geib, Desmond Chaney, and Westyn Amthor reflect on their final high school football season, the memories they have made, and what it means to wear the Blue Jays uniform one last time.
The senior class has played an important role in the team’s success, with many of the players dedicating all four years of their high school careers to the program. Throughout those years, they have developed as athletes, built lasting friendships, and learned valuable lessons about teamwork and leadership.
Whether it was the competition, the team’s performance, or the memories made with his teammates, every player has a game they will remember. Looking back on the season, each senior has moments that stand out. For Gabe Gebhards, one game in particular has made a lasting impression. When asked about his favorite game of the season and why it stood out, Gabe said, “My favorite game was Worth County because it felt good getting a little revenge.”
While games create unforgettable moments, some of the best memories happen away from the scoreboard. Senior Jadyn Geib has spent years building friendships and sharing experiences with his teammates. As his high school football career approaches its final chapter, those moments have become an important part of his experience. When asked about his favorite memory from his high school football career, Jadyn said, “The bus rides to games.”
Every football player has a story about how their journey began. For some, it starts with a love of competition, while others are inspired by family, friends, or the opportunity to be part of a team. Senior Desmond Chaney has his own reason for getting involved in the sport. When asked what first sparked his interest in football, Desmond said, “Because everyone else was doing it.”
After years of playing high school football, seniors also have valuable advice to share with the younger players who will carry on the Blue Jays tradition. Senior Westyn Amthor has gained experience through practices, games, and the challenges that come with being part of a team. With his high school career nearing its end, he has an opportunity to pass along what he has learned. When asked what advice he would give to an underclassman, Westyn joked, “Know what mood Coach (Dalton) Jones is in.”
As Rock Port heads into the postseason, the Blue Jays have plenty to be proud of. Their undefeated 9-0 record reflects a successful season, but the impact of the senior class goes beyond wins and losses. The friendships, lessons, and memories built throughout their high school careers will remain long after their final game. No matter what the postseason brings, these seniors will always be part of the Rock Port football family.
Junior High Girls Basketball
by Maeve Roup
The Junior High Girls basketball team had their first game against Nodaway Valley on October 27, at Graham. Harper Roup said she thinks the team could improve communication. Coach Gaines said, “We could always improve on defense.” Their first home game is on November 2 against Mound City. Coach Gaines thinks it will be a tough game to play, but it is good to play hard teams. Harper Roup stated, “My favorite part of basketball is the bus rides.” Coach Gaines added to this by saying her favorite part is “to watch the team improve as a whole.” They are excited for this game and focus on health and defensive drills. Harper Roup’s favorite thing to say to her team in a game is “We’ve got this, lock in.” Overall, they are both excited to improve and hopefully succeed in the upcoming season.
Why Should People Join the Auxiliary Team?
by Alexi Stoner
Joining the auxiliary team can be a great way to build confidence and communication skills and it looks amazing for college admission or future job resumés. Becoming a part of a synchronized group brings the opportunity to rely on others and work together as a team. It can also help provide members of auxiliary more opportunities to communicate and learn about the other people in their school, community, or surrounding areas. Due to the events being held in nearby towns, they get to reach out to the communities surrounding them. Bringing a wide variety of new experiences, and new people to expand the student’s horizon with.
Not only does auxiliary allow students to have memorable experiences with the team it can also help many form a talent or skill they wouldn’t have if they didn’t do auxiliary. Auxiliary not only expands your physical ability but also helps stretch the mind and work through hard things. Auxiliary is a great program to join, and would offer many benefits, such as the connection with the team, the enjoyment of learning a new skill and building character. I have spoken with some members of the Rock Port Auxiliary Team, and they have given their answer to the question, “Why join Auxiliary? “
Sophie Storm stated, “You get to travel many places, and learn many new skills.”
Sophie enjoys not just the many places she gets to travel to but also the dancing, and all the friends she’s made through auxiliary.
Maddie Wilroy was asked why people should join auxiliary “You get to travel to fun band competitions and get to experience fun things you wouldn’t have if you weren’t in Auxiliary.” Maddie stated.
Lots of the Auxiliary members enjoy and love being a part of the team and recommend many others to think of joining as well. With all these reasons you should think about joining your local Auxiliary team!
Volleyball Senior Spotlight
by Harper Wood
Brylea Shrader
Brylea has played volleyball for two years. Her favorite memory is practice because they are fun. The friendships she has made through volleyball have helped her because she knows that people will be there for her. One thing she is going to miss is her friends. She would tell younger players to not give up and keep pushing even during hard times. She would tell her freshman self to not quit. One game she won’t forget is the first game against Mound City this year. The reason she came back is because of her love of the game.
Tatum Vogler
Tatum has played volleyball for four years. Her favorite memory was sweeping EA in districts her sophomore year. She would tell younger athletes don’t base their whole personality on sports and be your own person. One thing she would tell her freshman self is to enjoy every moment and don’t wish everything to be over sooner. Volleyball has taught her to work hard and not fixate on the mistakes. One thing she will remember about her teammates is the laughter and the joy. Something she will miss most about playing volleyball is playing with her teammates.
New Staff Spotlight featuring Brewer Wheeler
by Rozlyn McCown
Please join us in welcoming Mr. Wheeler, Rock Port’s new elementary physical education teacher! A graduate of Northwest State University, Mr. Wheeler is beginning his first year of teaching. Outside the classroom, he enjoys playing wiffle ball, building Legos, and participating in community theater. Rock Port is very excited to have him join our school and looking forward to the positive impact he will have on his students!
Rock Port’s Newest Faces!
by Rozlyn McCown
Starting at a new school can take some time to get used to. We asked some of Rock Port’s new students/returning students about their first impressions of the school, and what they think about becoming a Blue Jay!
“When I first came to Rock Port I felt happy.” Maddelyn Riley, 2nd grade
“It’s great to finally be back at Rock Port after 3 years,” Henry McCoy, 5th grade
“I like being here.” Rihanna Hopkins, 6th grade
“Better sports system than Tarkio, and it’s nice to get to see Mr. Dodson again.” Tavyn Smith, 7th grade
“It was okay, everyone was super nice.” Wyatt Wray, 7th grade
Rock Port Welcomes Speech and Debate
by Tenley Peshek
The Rock Port R-II School District recently welcomed speech and debate as an elective. The teacher leading this elective is Mr. Brown. He is the coach to five high school students, Morgan Garst, Lily Wilroy, Isabella Kroeger, Aniyah Williams, and Alexi Stoner. These students had their first speech and debate tournament hosted at Lee Summit High School. Speech and debate is a competitive team event where students are given one month to pick a subject, research the topic, and write a speech in hopes of being able to recite the information as needed. However, the Rock Port participants were given one week for their first tournament. As this was a new elective event for the Rock Port School District the tournament was something the students were both excited and nervous for. The entirety of the team spent time and effort preparing for this event. When asked if any students excelled beyond expectations, Mr. Brown replied “I think the debate team of Alexi Stoner and Lily Wilroy did well at the last tournament. Alexi was put in at the last minute for a sick teammate and had no clue about the topic or event as she was preparing a different event, but with Lily’s help they were able to learn all the rules and compete admirably.” The Rock Port team of Lily, and Alexi came in close with two teams. The teams they came in close with ended up placing fifth and third overall. Mr. Brown said he is looking forward to the Benton and Savanna tournaments because they are smaller events and will give the Rock Port participants more opportunities. Mr. Brown has high hopes for the rest of the year, even stating “My biggest hope and goal for this team is to grow as competitors and to compete well. I hope to continue to grow the program as we move forward and to represent Rock Port High and the city of Rock Port well.”
New Elementary Playground
by Braylyn Wood
The school is planning to get a brand-new playground for the elementary students! The plan is to take out all the old equipment and replace it with new and fun things to play on. “We want to put in a bonded rubber surface to make the playground safer and more accessible for students. We also want to do this to make it more ADA approved,” Jayme Wood, playground committee member. The final plans have not been decided yet, but some ideas are a new playground structure, new swings, maybe a spider swing, play vehicles, a bridge, musical instruments, and maybe even an obstacle course. There will be lots of fun things for kids to do, play, and explore!
The goal is to have the new playground ready by August 2027, and construction is planned to start in the spring of 2027. The school hopes to raise up to $600,000 for this big project. The playground committee has already received a $300,000 grant, which is a great start! Now they are looking for more grants and ways to raise funds to help pay for the other $300,000. They are hosting a turkey trot on November 21 at 8 am at the elementary playground, 12 and under can run a mile. The committee has arranged to have “Cozy or Capped” the first Wednesday of every month, students can wear a cap or pj’s for $1. If they cannot raise the rest of the goal, the school will pay for the remainder. Everyone hopes they can raise enough money to make this playground amazing for all the students to enjoy for many years! If you are interested in supporting the project you can contact Mrs. Wood, Mrs. Geib or Mrs. Ellis at 660-744-6296.
Rock Port FBLA Chapter Visits Vala’s Pumpkin Patch
by Karlie Gebhards
The Rock Port FBLA Chapter traveled to Vala’s Pumpkin Patch on Wednesday, October 21, for its fall social event. FBLA sponsor Stephanie Parsons and 38-chapter members attended the event, which provided students with an opportunity to learn about business operations while enjoying a fun fall activity.
To kick off the day, members heard from Jeff Myers, head chef and production manager at Vala’s Pumpkin Patch. Myers spoke about the ups and downs of working at one of the best pumpkin patches in America. He discussed the challenges of operating a seasonal business that is only open for two months each year, as well as the rewarding experiences and exciting opportunities that come with the job. Following the presentation, members had the opportunity to explore the pumpkin patch and enjoy the many attractions Vala’s has to offer.
Overall, the trip to Vala’s Pumpkin Patch was an enjoyable and educational experience for the Rock Port FBLA Chapter. Members left with a better understanding of business management, seasonal employment, and the dedication it takes to make a business successful.
