Taylorville Junior High School fifth-grade students might only be in the first year of their middle school careers, but they are setting the tone for future generations of young learners. Two recent initiatives have ignited the student's passion for learning and relationship building with the Tornadoes Together Program and the recent participation at the STEM Fair in Rochester.

Students Amber Achenbach and Ally Koniak explained that Tornadoes Together extends a friendly hand to FACeS (Functional Academic and Communication Skills) students or students with disabilities. Amber and Ally hope that the program eventually becomes normalized and implemented for future learners.

Keagan Heimsness and Truman McKenzie have ventured into the world of computer software and coding. The fifth graders were up to the task when fielding questions from STEM fairgoers and have future plans to continue their interests in technology.

There are many opportunities to become a well-rounded student while at TJHS. Principal Eric Bruder spoke on the many clubs offered such as office assistance, student council, jazz band, media assistance, drama club, and a popular Dungeons and Dragons Club, and more.

Matt Peabody, Student Services Coordinator, works with the Tornadoes Together Program and says it was completely student-driven, Peabody calls the initiative inspiring.

TJHS Dean of Students, Jodi Acree says that attendance rates are going up and students are present to enjoy the many academic and extracurricular opportunities available to them.

Students Amber Achenbach, Ally Koniak, Keagan Heimsness, and Truman McKenzie along with administrators, Principal Eric Bruder, Matt Peabody, and Jodi Acree appeared as guests on the WTIM Morning Show.