Graham-Kapowsin High School

Infobox Secondary school
name = Graham-Kapowsin High School
established = 2005
city = Graham
state = Washington
country = USA
campus = Suburban
type = Public secondary
principal = Jennifer Bethman
grades = 10–12
enrollment= 1,325 (2006-2007)
district = Bethel School District
mascot = Eagle
colors = Orange, Royal blue, White
website = [http://www.bethelsd.org/schools/school_detail.php?id=27] [http://www.bethelsd.org/resources/images/webAdmin/news/gk_const.jpg]

Graham-Kapowsin High School in Graham, Washington opened its doors in 2005. It resides in the Bethel School District in Pierce County. The Eagles are members of the South Division of the South Puget Sound League in Washington's West Central District. The football team made its first State appearance in 2006, but lost in the opening round.

Athletics

The first graduating class set impressive standards in Track and Field. The 2007 Boys 4x4 Meter Relay Team which consisted of Ryan Barret, Matt Smith, Ryan Anchetta, Evan Schwantner, and their alternate Nick Smith, won the 2007 State Championship. The previous year they went to state placing 5th overall. The 2007 team, however, soared passed their previous mark by becoming the only team in the state that year to run under a 3:20, with a time of 3:19.56. Their determination and victory was enforced by their head coach, former state champion in the 800m, Ryan Zackula.

Music

The music program at GKHS has earned a few minor awards and recognition from accredited professional musicians and teachers. The band programs' Wind Ensemble has been invited to play at many festivals across the country. The choir program is led by Andrea Klouse and was invited to perform at New York's Carnegie Hall in 2007.

JROTC

The JROTC program at GKHS has come a long way since it's humble beginnings in 2005. The elective course is taught by Chief Warrant Officer 3 Michael Meray (Ret.) and First Sergeant James Kemp (Ret..)The JROTC has grown from a unit with 77 enrolled cadets to well over 120 in the upcoming year. The JROTC Special Teams have also met moderate success in their regional competitions in the programs short three years. Their 2008-09 Physical Strength team, led by Jacob Green.Team A Color Guard, led by Brad Schoch. The schools Drill Team (unarmed and armed) is also lead by Brad Schoch. The schools Battalion Commander is lead by Edward Sparks.

Differences from Jr. Highs

Differences from Bethel Jr. High

*GK allows students to wear backpacks in class, BJH does not.

*GK has fewer lunchtimes, but with many kids; while BJH has more lunchtimes, but with less students each.

*GK school day class schedule is different "each day".

*GK has 1,294 students (about 400 more than BJH), and hallways are said to be almost like "rivers" in between periods. On the 1st floor, it's almost impossible to go against "river" of students during peak passing times!

*Consequences are slightly stricter at GK (Ex. Tardy at BJH earns a lunch detention, tardy at GK earns you an after-school detention)

*Certain rooms in GK are like roundabouts (Ex. The front office)

External links

* [http://www.bethelsd.org Bethel School Website]