As we approach the Thanksgiving holiday, it's a great time to look back and reflect on the many positives in our lives for the seventh annual Attitude of Gratitude special episode. Over 40 members of the Emmaus High School community took time during this busy period of the school year to share a little bit about what makes them #EastPennProud and thankful. So before you fill your plate with food, once again fill yourself with an attitude of gratitude with the students and staff at EHS.

Previous Attitude of Gratitude Episodes

2024 - https://www.9thgradeexperience.com/a-thanksgiving-attitude-of-gratitude-2024-s7e1/

2023 - https://www.9thgradeexperience.com/attitude-of-gratitude-2023-s6e6/

2022- https://www.9thgradeexperience.com/season-5-episode-6-a-thanksgiving-attitude-of-gratitude-2022/

2021- https://www.9thgradeexperience.com/season-4-episode-12-attitude-of-gratitude-2021/

2020 - https://www.9thgradeexperience.com/season-3-episode-12-a-thanksgiving-attitude-of-gratitude-2020/

2019 - https://www.9thgradeexperience.com/season-2-episode-10-a-thanksgiving-attitude-of-gratitude/

For all previous episodes of the podcast, go to www.9thgradeexperience.com. If you visit the site, you can leave us a voicemail, an email or a rate and review of the show.

This episode of the 9th Grade Experience Podcast features Neil Moyer, a graduate of Emmas High School from the class of 1953, who shares his experiences as a freshman during the 1949-1950 school year. He discusses his academic choices, extracurricular activities, memorable teachers, and the unique social dynamics of high school life at that time. The conversation sheds light on the historical context of education in the East Penn School District, highlighting the evolution of school structure, student responsibilities, and the cultural environment of the era.

Ninth Grade Structure and Choices

Neil Moyer discussed the structure of ninth grade in 1949, highlighting the separation between students attending Jefferson and Lincoln schools based on their choice of curriculum, particularly the option of taking Latin. He was the only student from his eighth-grade class who chose Latin, influenced by advice from his aunt.

Student Responsibilities in Cafeteria

Moyer shared that students worked in the cafeteria, where they scraped trays and sold ice cream, illustrating a level of responsibility and involvement that is uncommon in today's school settings. This work provided students with free lunches, reflecting a more integrated approach to student life.

Extracurricular Activities

He reminisced about his participation in baseball, mentoring programs, and the unique freshman minstrel show, which guaranteed participants an automatic A. These activities showcased how social and cultural events were key aspects of student life. Memorable Teachers and Their Impact The conversation highlighted the impact teachers had on students, with Moyer recalling specific names and their teaching styles that left a lasting impression on him. His relationship with teachers facilitated a supportive learning environment.

Evolution of Education

Moyer reflected on the changes in the East Penn School District since his time, noting the increase in educational choices and the administrative changes introduced with the formation of the district, which was earlier comprised of multiple independent school districts.

For all previous episodes of the podcast, go to ⁠⁠www.9thgradeexperience.com.⁠⁠ If you visit the site, you can leave us a voicemail, an email or rate and review of the show.

Emmaus Historical Society

Thanks to Jeanne Harakal, President of the Emmaus Historical Society, for facilitating this podcast conversation and for the picture in the cover art. The society’s mission is “to collect, preserve and exhibit Emmaus artifacts, documents, histories, photographs and genealogy for displays and research and to offer educational programs and events throughout the year.” Look for more podcasting collaboration in the future as we highlight stories of Emmaus 9th graders through the decades. For more information about the Emmaus Historical Society, visit ⁠https://www.emmaushistoricalsociety.org/⁠

Musical Credit

Thanks to Eli Heckman, Class of 2025, for providing the music at the beginning of today's episode!

Education Podcast Network

I am proud to announce that the 9th Grade Experience Podcast has joined the Education Podcast Network (EPN). The passionate hosts of the EPN family are made up of a wide variety of teachers, administrators, and educators who are dedicated to bringing you the best in education-related content. The network covers everything from current events in education, technology, and best practices to the latest editorials and more on a regular basis in high quality. To find out more information about all the great shows, visit ⁠⁠https://www.edupodcastnetwork.com/

As we approach the Thanksgiving holiday, it's a great time to look back and reflect on the many positives in our lives for the sixth annual Attitude of Gratitude special episode. Over 60 members of the Emmaus High School community took time during this busy period of the school year to share a little bit about what makes them #EastPennProud and thankful. So before you fill your plate with food, once again fill yourself with an attitude of gratitude with the students and staff at EHS. Previous Attitude of Gratitude Episodes 2023 - https://www.9thgradeexperience.com/attitude-of-gratitude-2023-s6e6/ 2022- https://www.9thgradeexperience.com/season-5-episode-6-a-thanksgiving-attitude-of-gratitude-2022/ 2021- https://www.9thgradeexperience.com/season-4-episode-12-attitude-of-gratitude-2021/ 2020 - https://www.9thgradeexperience.com/season-3-episode-12-a-thanksgiving-attitude-of-gratitude-2020/ 2019 - https://www.9thgradeexperience.com/season-2-episode-10-a-thanksgiving-attitude-of-gratitude/ For all previous episodes of the podcast, go to www.9thgradeexperience.com. If you visit the site, you can leave us a voicemail, an email or a rate and review of the show. Musical Credit Thanks to Eli Heckman, Class of 2025, for providing the music at the beginning of today's episode! Education Podcast Network I am proud to announce that the 9th Grade Experience Podcast has joined the Education Podcast Network (EPN). The passionate hosts of the EPN family are made up of a wide variety of teachers, administrators, and educators who are dedicated to bringing you the best in education-related content. The network covers everything from current events in education, technology, and best practices to the latest editorials and more on a regular basis in high quality. To find out more information about all the great shows, visit ⁠https://www.edupodcastnetwork.com/

Join us as we chat with Chris Stone, the freshman tennis sensation from Emmaus High School, who recently won the District 11 boys single tennis championship. Chris shares his journey through 9th grade, detailing how his brother’s presence in high school eased his transition. Despite initial challenges with the workload and school size, Chris quickly adapted, finding his stride both academically and athletically.

Chris dives deep into his tennis season, highlighting the mix of nerves and confidence that fueled his performance. He discusses the fast-paced nature of the season, from tryouts to competitive matches, and how his familiarity with district players gave him an edge. Chris’s experience as the second singles player and his determination were pivotal in his high-level performance, helping his team secure significant wins.

Explore Chris’s insights into team dynamics and high-stress situations, where team support played a crucial role in his motivation. He recounts his thrilling matches and the unique dynamic of almost competing against his brother in the finals. Looking ahead, Chris is committed to rigorous off-season training, eager to improve next year. He offers valuable advice to incoming ninth graders in individual sports, emphasizing confidence, hard work, and a strong desire to succeed.

For all previous episodes of the podcast, go to ⁠⁠www.9thgradeexperience.com.⁠⁠ If you visit the site, you can leave us a voicemail, an email or rate and review of the show. Musical Credit Thanks to Eli Heckman, Class of 2025, for providing the music at the beginning of today's episode! Education Podcast Network I am proud to announce that the 9th Grade Experience Podcast has joined the Education Podcast Network (EPN). The passionate hosts of the EPN family are made up of a wide variety of teachers, administrators, and educators who are dedicated to bringing you the best in education-related content. The network covers everything from current events in education, technology, and best practices to the latest editorials and more on a regular basis in high quality. To find out more information about all the great shows, visit ⁠⁠https://www.edupodcastnetwork.com/

In this episode, we delve into the journey of securing employment as a young individual, exploring the experiences and insights of our guest, Dorney Park Recruitment Manager Katie Knopf. Katie began her work career at Dorney Park during her 9th-grade year as a seasonal employee and has advanced through the years to full-time management positions. Katie stresses the importance for young employees to understand the balance of fun and responsibility in the workplace emphasizing the importance of maintaining professionalism while embracing the enjoyable aspects of the job. She talks about the work-life balance for young individuals involved in extracurricular activities, offering valuable insights for prospective job seekers. The conversation also touches on safety measures implemented by the park, including a chaperone policy, metal detectors, and comprehensive training for employees to handle any situation effectively in order to promote employee safety. The conversation concludes with insights into the application process for prospective employees, emphasizing the importance of attention to detail and readiness for the dynamic environment at Dorney Park. To apply for a job at Dorney Park, go to https://jobs.cedarfair.com/search-jobs?acm=ALL&alrpm=ALL&ascf=[%7B%22key%22:%22custom_fields.locationsNew%22,%22value%22:%22Dorney+Park%22%7D] For all previous episodes of the podcast, go to ⁠⁠www.9thgradeexperience.com.⁠⁠ If you visit the site, you can leave us a voicemail, an email or rate and review of the show. Musical Credit Thanks to Eli Heckman, Class of 2025, for providing the music at the beginning of today's episode! Education Podcast Network I am proud to announce that the 9th Grade Experience Podcast has joined the Education Podcast Network (EPN). The passionate hosts of the EPN family are made up of a wide variety of teachers, administrators, and educators who are dedicated to bringing you the best in education-related content. The network covers everything from current events in education, technology, and best practices to the latest editorials and more on a regular basis in high quality. To find out more information about all the great shows, visit ⁠⁠https://www.edupodcastnetwork.com/

Damon West, author of "The Coffee Bean," shares his inspiring journey from a 9th grader wanting to make varsity football in Texas to eventually serving a life sentence in a Texas prison and his ultimate transformation into a keynote speaker, best-selling author, philanthropist, college professor, and servant leader.

West reflects on his ninth-grade experience, highlighting the pressures of Texas high school football and struggling with math. Despite challenges, he excelled in sports to earn a college scholarship.

However, a career-ending injury derailed his plans, leading to a downward spiral of addiction and crime. In prison, Damon encountered a mentor who shared the story of the coffee bean, inspiring him to change his mindset and surroundings. He emphasizes the importance of being useful by serving others, avoiding negative influences like gossip, and seeking help when needed. Damon discussed the significance of fighting life's battles, acknowledging that everyone gets knocked down but stressing the importance of resilience and perseverance. He highlighted the connection between confidence and keeping promises to oneself, encouraging listeners to embrace change and continue striving for personal growth. Throughout the interview, Damon's message of hope and transformation resonated, offering valuable insights for listeners of all ages.

To purchase a copy of the Coffee Bean, visit Let's Play Books in Emmaus, Pa. and Allentown, Pa. or use the following link https://www.letsplaybooks.com/book/9781119430278.

For all previous episodes of the podcast, go to ⁠⁠www.9thgradeexperience.com.⁠⁠ If you visit the site, you can leave us a voicemail, an email or rate and review of the show.

Musical Credit

Thanks to Eli Heckman, Class of 2025, for providing the music at the beginning of today's episode!

Education Podcast Network

I am proud to announce that the 9th Grade Experience Podcast has joined the Education Podcast Network (EPN). The passionate hosts of the EPN family are made up of a wide variety of teachers, administrators, and educators who are dedicated to bringing you the best in education-related content. The network covers everything from current events in education, technology, and best practices to the latest editorials and more on a regular basis in high quality. To find out more information about all the great shows, visit ⁠⁠https://www.edupodcastnetwork.com/

In this episode we continue the 9th Grade Experience Through the Decades series in collaboration with the Emmaus Historical Society. Our second episode welcomes Ruth Kemmerer, a graduate of Emmaus High School from the class of 1949, whose freshman year dates back to the 1945-1946 school year. Listeners can expect to hear about the unique challenges, memorable moments, and the overall atmosphere of Emmaus High School during that era. Ruth's recollections offer a window into the past, allowing the audience to connect with the history of the school in a personal and engaging way.

As the host and Kemmerer navigate through the freshman year of 1945-1946, the episode uncovers intriguing anecdotes, share nostalgic reflections, and highlight the significant events that shaped the early experiences of students at Emmaus High School. This installment not only contributes to preserving the school's history but also provides a platform for listeners to connect with the shared experiences of past generations, fostering a sense of continuity and community within the Emmaus High School legacy. For all previous episodes of the podcast, go to ⁠⁠www.9thgradeexperience.com.⁠⁠ If you visit the site, you can leave us a voicemail, an email or rate and review of the show. Emmaus Historical Society Thanks to Jeanne Harakal, President of the Emmaus Historical Society, for facilitating this podcast conversation and for the picture in the cover art. The society’s mission is “to collect, preserve and exhibit Emmaus artifacts, documents, histories, photographs and genealogy for displays and research and to offer educational programs and events throughout the year.” Look for more podcasting collaboration in the future as we highlight stories of Emmaus 9th graders through the decades. For more information about the Emmaus Historical Society, visit ⁠https://www.emmaushistoricalsociety.org/⁠ Musical Credit Thanks to Eli Heckman, Class of 2025, for providing the music at the beginning of today's episode! Education Podcast Network I am proud to announce that the 9th Grade Experience Podcast has joined the Education Podcast Network (EPN). The passionate hosts of the EPN family are made up of a wide variety of teachers, administrators, and educators who are dedicated to bringing you the best in education-related content. The network covers everything from current events in education, technology, and best practices to the latest editorials and more on a regular basis in high quality. To find out more information about all the great shows, visit ⁠⁠https://www.edupodcastnetwork.com/

One of the fastest growing sports in the Lehigh Valley over the past few seasons has been girls wrestling. Emmaus High School becomes the latest school to add a a team in what the NCAA calls an Emerging Sport as it begins the 2023-2024 campaign.

For freshman Petra Perez and Kadence Yannotti it has been a steep learning curve to a brand new sport. Hear about their reasons for joining, what they have quickly learned about the sport and themselves during this process and what advice they have for girls who might also want join the fun!

For all previous episodes of the podcast, go to ⁠www.9thgradeexperience.com.⁠ If you visit the site, you can leave us a voicemail, an email or a rate and review of the show.  

Musical Credit Thanks to Eli Heckman, Class of 2025, for providing the music at the beginning of today's episode! Education Podcast Network I am proud to announce that the 9th Grade Experience Podcast has joined the Education Podcast Network (EPN). The passionate hosts of the EPN family are made up of a wide variety of teachers, administrators, and educators who are dedicated to bringing you the best in education-related content. The network covers everything from current events in education, technology, and best practices to the latest editorials and more on a regular basis in high quality. To find out more information about all the great shows, visit ⁠⁠https://www.edupodcastnetwork.com/