By Nicole Thomas
One of the highlights of the first convocation of the Starkville Oktibbeha School District was introducing Alexus Milons and sharing her story with the Yellow Jacket family.
In 2011, Alexus, was a young eighth grader, with a beautiful voice who loved to sing with her school’s choir. That year she learned her choral teacher was leaving, and due to budget cuts, the position would not be filled and the program would be cancelled. It was the first time, she remembers thinking she was missing out on opportunities that were afforded to her friends who attended a nearby school.
Three years later, now a sophomore, her principal made an announcement over the school’s intercom that would change her life.
“Our principal told us a law had been passed and we would be consolidating and attending Starkville High School,” said Alexus. “I just remember thinking can this really be happening. I was excited and a little nervous but all I could think about was the opportunities I would have. love to draw and sing and play the piano.”
Later that year, Alexus got involved with the student led organization UNITY, and she attended three student summits at Starkville High School.
“I felt welcome immediately, and I even met some new friends during my first visit to SHS,” said Alexus.
When school begins in August, Alexus will be a senior at Starkville High School. She auditioned for the SHS Singers in the spring. She’ll have the opportunity to sing every single day as a senior. She’ll perform with the award-winning SHS Singers, and she’ll learn from former Mississippi Music Teacher of the Year Regina Weeks. Alexus also plans to study art and further develop her artistic ability under the guidance of former Mississippi Teacher of the Year Andrew Lark. Beyond her studies, Alexus plans to continue her volunteer work with the student led organization UNITY.
While Alexus is only one student, she represents many others who share a similar story. We welcome Alexus, her friends, and her classmates, and we can’t wait to see their sparks fly in the Starkville Oktibbeha School District!