HOUSTON, Texas – It’s the second week of school for students at Fleming Middle School, and things are returning to normal under the New Education System (NES), led by state-appointed superintendent Mike Miles.
Fleming MS is entering its second year in this system, and KPRC 2 reporter Candace Burns has been covering how teachers, students, and staff are navigating the changes and challenges. To catch up or watch the documentary we produced last year, entitled: TAKEOVER, or visit the Focus on Fleming web page on click2Houston.
On Monday, the Vikings began the week preparing not only for their Beginning of the Year tests, but also for several extracurricular tryouts.
Fleming MS hosted tryouts for football, cross country, volleyball, and cheerleading.
These extracurricular activities are distinct from DYAD Specialty Classes, a range of offerings designed to expose NES students to diverse experiences. DYAD classes include subjects like fitness, music, fine arts, 21st-century media and technology, hands-on science, and gardening.
Most of us remember the nerves and excitement of trying out for a team in school—whether in elementary, middle, high school, or even college. The experience, whether successful or not, often leaves a lasting memory.
During our weekly visit to Fleming, Candace spoke with seventh-grade Science of Reading teacher Januel Plumber, who also coaches the cheerleading team.
Plumber emphasized the importance of students engaging in activities outside their studies and shared her enthusiasm for her role as a coach.
“It’s fun. It’s an outlet. After working hard in so many classes, they have something to look forward to. They come to cheer practice ready and excited because they know they get to go to football games and represent the school. So yeah, it is an outlet,” Plumber said.
As a second-year coach, Plumber is excited about building a new team from scratch.
“Last year, I took over the previous coach’s squad. They already had their own culture, but this year, we’re working to create a new one with a whole new squad. I’m really excited,” she added.
After a few days of learning a new chant, cheer, and dance routine, over 25 girls officially tried out for the Vikings Cheerleading team on Thursday.
Ms. Plumber has 20 spots available, and selection will require not only team spirit but also recommendations from their teachers.