The Rockingham Middle School Beta Club returned to the North Carolina Junior Beta Convention this year to continue a long-standing tradition of showcasing RMS students’ numerous gifts and talents in both academic, visual arts, and performing arts competitions. This year’s Junior Beta Convention was held in Greensboro, NC, at the Koury Convention Center Jan. 29-31.
The RMS Junior Betas participating in the state convention this year placed in the top five in the state in several different competitions, including first place in a solo dance performance from eighth-grader Cailey Chermak. This placement resulted in Chermak’s selection as a Premier Performer at the national convention this summer in Louisville, Kentucky. Premier Performers are a group of talented singers and dancers who are featured during the opening session of national convention. These students are hand-selected during their state conventions and are invited to perform in a special opening number.
“It was heartwarming to see how excited the students and parents were during the convention and how they supported not only one another, but also Betas from other schools across the state,” says Shelly Steele, RMS Beta advisor.
RMS Junior Betas who made the top five not only earned a plaque as a congratulation for their success, but also are eligible to compete at the National Beta Convention this summer in Louisville.
The full list of the 2023 RMS Junior Beta Club winners includes the following students:
- Language Arts, 7th grade (5th place) – Emma Wilson
- Social Studies, 7th grade (4th place) – Drew Greene
- Mathematics, 6th grade (4th place) – Madison Tyler
- Science, 6th grade (3rd place) – Hunter Steele
- Performing Arts Junior Small Group (3rd Place) – Noah Goodman, Hayley Singleton, Kayleigh Thrower, Emma Wilson, Madison Tyler, Jonathan Bridges
- Performing Arts Junior -Solo, Duo, Trio ~ Dancer (1st place): Cailey Chermak
“We’re very proud of our students and grateful for all who put in an extensive amount of time and effort to achieve these accolades,” remarked Amanda Gainey, lead Beta advisor.
Middle School Junior Beta Advisor Nikki Covington was most impressed by the students’ dedication.
“They gave up Friday afternoons to practice for small group talent, and they never complained. They were willing to try anything and adapted well to changes in choreography, costuming, and props,” she observed. “I also loved how they supported each other! No one criticized anyone. When some members were struggling with dance moves, other members would step in and work extra hard to make sure everyone was getting the steps,” she adds. “They also took pride in their work. They wanted to do well and represent Rockingham Middle School in a positive way.”
“All of our students have worked really hard,” advisor Meto Allen said, adding that some of the work that didn’t place was excellent.
Gainey thanked the other sponsors for their support, along with choral teacher Carly McKay for her knowledge and expertise.
The Rockingham Middle Junior Beta Club helps set a solid foundation for young people as they learn how to navigate the world around them, serving in their school, in their local communities, and beyond. Through various service projects, competitions, and more, students strive to uphold the four pillars of Beta: achievement, character, service, and leadership.
