The transition from elementary school to junior high can feel intimidating, but for seventh grader Emily Powell, Crismon High School quickly became a place where she found confidence, connection, and her voice as a leader.
“When I first got here, I was really scared,” Emily shared during an interview with School Resource Officer Shipman. “It was a bigger school, and since it’s both junior high and high school, it was like, woah. Everything was new, and almost everyone felt new.”
Despite those initial nerves, Emily soon realized Crismon was a welcoming place. One of her favorite parts of being a seventh grader is the unique campus environment. “I just like being in junior high and being with all the kids,” she said. “And since it’s also a high school, I get to see my siblings, which makes it feel more comfortable.”
Getting involved helped Emily feel at home right away. She is an active member of student council, where she helps plan spirit weeks and attend home football games. “Student council is my favorite,” Emily said. “I like being a leader. When someone asks, ‘Who wants to be the leader?’ I’m always the one to volunteer.”
Emily encourages incoming sixth graders to jump in and not hold back. “Be yourself,” she advised. “You’re going to be nervous, but it’s really just school with more kids, harder work, and more opportunities.” She also points to Crismon’s strong sense of community, saying, “We have good teachers, good electives, and kind people here.”
A message Emily lives by is Crismon’s Rattler mindset. “Always remember to strike first,” she said. “Be kind, show integrity, and don’t be afraid to take the first step.” She added with pride, “Once a Rattler, always a Rattler.”
Emily also makes a point to welcome new students. “When there’s a new kid, I always want to be the friend,” she said. “If someone wants to be involved, I want them to feel involved.”
Her advice to future seventh graders is simple and reassuring. “You’re going to do great,” Emily said. “I know you will.”
Emily’s experience shows that Crismon is not just a place to start junior high—it’s a place where students grow into leaders and lifelong Rattlers.