Wildcats News for week of January 13, 2026
Students in Mrs. Wheeler’s class have found a delicious way to bring history to life—by building an edible replica of Jamestown, the first permanent English settlement in North America.
As part of their study of the 13 Colonies, students worked together to recreate Jamestown using creative (and tasty) materials. Inspired by gingerbread houses, the class designed log cabins made from cereal, graham crackers, and icing, carefully arranged to resemble the wooden structures of the original settlement. One of the most impressive features was the three-sided wooden wall, a key part of Jamestown’s defense, thoughtfully recreated with edible “logs.”
The project didn’t stop there. Students also included an Algonquian village, highlighting the Native American tribes who lived in the region long before the English arrived. Using cereal and other treats, students showed traditional village structures and discussed the important role the Algonquian people played in Jamestown’s early history.
“This project helped students see history as something real, not just words in a textbook,” Mrs. Wheeler shared. “They learned how Jamestown was organized, why defenses were important, and how different cultures interacted, all while collaborating and having fun.”
Students researched Jamestown’s layout,daily life, and challenges, then applied that knowledge to their edible designs. The result was a colorful, creative display that blended history, teamwork, and a little bit of sugar.
Around the table from L-R: Kale Dunham, Ellie Royal, Kyler Johnson, Rhett McCartor, Jansen Hamilton, Alexia Larkey, Hudson Wadsworth, Carley Nickel, Grant Tune.
Wes Wheeler, Kindrey Gaisford, Lucas Coykendall, Kashyn Miller, Dylan Watson.
5th graders with the edible replica of Jamestown.
On Monday, January 5, 2026, teachers returned to school for a professional development day and to prepare for students to return on Tuesday. Staff attended the monthly District Meeting, where upcoming January activities were discussed. Teachers then met with their principals to review and update the current year’s TLE and complete Checkpoint 2. Representatives from American Fidelity met with staff to assist with enrollment for the upcoming year. In addition, Brooks Stephensen with Horizon Financial presented an informative session on the Oklahoma Teacher Retirement System. Teachers concluded the day by returning to their classrooms to prepare for the start of the new semester.
The Farmer’s and Merchant’s Bank “Banking on a Wildcat” for the week of January 5, 2026, is Norah Bryant. “Norah is a kind and respectful student who consistently works hard and strives to do what is right. She puts forth her best effort in the classroom, has a positive attitude, and is pleasant to be around. Norah’s attitude is always pleasant and kind and is a true asset to Arnett Schools.” Congratulations, Norah!
The 3-8th grade classes had their class spelling bees last week. The top 3 will participate in the local spelling bee next Wednesday, January 14, with winners advancing to the County Spelling Bee the following week in Shattuck.
3rd grade winners: Ayden Brown, 2nd; Sterling Royal, 1st; Bridger Miller, 3rd.
4th grade winners: Tinsley Johnston, 3rd; Sloane Whitson, 1st; Tyke Williams, 2nd.
5th grade winners: Grant Tune 3rd; Dylan Watson, 1st; Kindrey Gaisford, 2nd.
6th grade winners: Leddy Johnson, 3rd; Ryder Williams, 1st; Nikki Clark, 2nd.