Arnett Public Schools wrapped up the first nine weeks with a day full of laughter, teamwork, and school spirit during the annual Fall with Friends celebration. Hosted by the Arnett Beta Club, this special tradition pairs older students with younger students for a day of fun, friendship, and fellowship.
The festivities kicked off with a schoolwide pancake breakfast! Mr. Shoaf and Mr. Johnston fired up the grills outside, cooking pancakes and sausage, while the school cooks stepped up inside to help serve breakfast to nearly every student in the district. It was quite the undertaking, but a delicious way to start the day!
After breakfast, students gathered in the auditorium, where they were divided into groups and given their next mission. Led by Mrs. Royal, students set out on a 15-station scavenger hunt that took them throughout the school. At each stop, teachers and staff members were waiting with a new challenge. From dancing and singing to problem-solving, hopscotch, cup stacking, and more, students had to work together to complete each task. The scavenger hunt provided plenty of laughs and gave older students the opportunity to encourage and bond with their younger partners.
Once the scavenger hunt was complete, everyone returned to the auditorium before Mrs. Dearing took over for the afternoon's athletic events. Students headed to the circle drive, where Pre-K through second-grade students showed off their quick feet as they raced around the circle, cheered on by their classmates and teachers.
Next came the highly anticipated Wildcat Fun Run! Nearly all students in grades 3–12 participated, with some choosing the one-mile course and others taking on the more challenging 5K. Younger students and teachers lined the course, cheering on runners, offering encouragement, and helping guide participants along the way. Mrs. Dearing's mother, Mrs. Folks, even joined in the fun by setting up a much-appreciated water station for students tackling the 5K!
A special thank-you also goes to the Ellis County Sheriff’s Department for helping keep our runners safe during the 5K! Their presence along the route helped ensure students could enjoy the race safely. We appreciate their willingness to take time out of their busy schedules to support our school and students. It’s just another example of the wonderful community support that makes Arnett such a special place!
Ryder Williams gives Mrs. Dearing a high five as she finishes the 5k
Jazzy Smith and Genny Garcia balance books on their heads during the scavenger hunt.
The scavenger hunt was not a race, but this team completed the tasks first.
L-R Lincoln Coleman, Ryder Williams, Teagan Dearing, Brecken May, Bryson Nickel
Levi Starkey and Nevan Swanson stand back and let their team stack cups.
Adante Smith crosses the finish line. He was first in the 5k run!
Paige Dearing and John Campbell checked on runners and videod for the media team during the races.
L-R Landon McCartor (2nd Place-5k), Adante Smith (1st Place-5k), Kreed Dunham (3rd Place-5k), and Kaysen Ketterman (1st Place - 1 Mile)
Bayne Strick, Rhett Beck, Bridger Miller, Krue Dunham, and Kale Dunham visit Mrs. Bryant’s classroom during the scavanger hunt.
Hallie McCartor and Kyson Messer enjoying their pancakes and sausage.