Grier School

December

Bella N.'s Work Featured in Annenburg Space for Photography in L.A.

12/27/2016

This past summer we featured Bella N., whose photography won the Girlgaze competition and was featured in Teen Vogue. Bella's work is now being featured in the Annenburg Space for Photography in LA, now through February 27, 2017!

Garden Club Visits Greenhouse

12/24/2016

Members of Grier's Garden Club visited a local greenhouse and enjoyed the beautiful blooms of poinsettia flowers. The students purchased plants to give as cheerful gifts. Throughout the school year, Garden Club members enjoy learning about plants and the art of floral arrangement.

Grier Giving Back Brings Supplies to Local Youth Charity

12/23/2016

Students participating in Grier's community service program, Grier Giving Back, delivered donations of school supplies to the Gloria Gates Memorial Foundation. In this event organized by the Junior Class, Grier homerooms competed to collect the most items to donate, resulting in over 600 items.

Secret Santa Program Brings Grier Together

12/20/2016

For the second consecutive year, Grier's National Honor Society chapter sponsored a school-wide Secret Santa gift exchange program. To foster a sense of togetherness during the holiday season, NHS invited students, teachers, and staff members to participate in spreading the cheer of the season.

Winter Performance Videos Available for Purchase

12/14/2016

The Winter Dance Performance, Musical Theatre Showcase, and Music Concert videos are now available for streaming and digital download through our videographer's website. Watch the trailer below and learn how to purchase your own digital copies of these professionally produced videos.

Grier Enjoys Winter Music Concert

12/13/2016

The Winter Concert occurred on the last day of classes before Grier's Winter Break begins, so our musicians and vocalists used this opportunity not only to feature their talents, but to also get the audience into the holiday spirit with a few Christmas pieces, including a Transiberian Orchestra favorite. Take a look at more photos and a video.

Musical Theatre Showcase Entertains

12/12/2016

On Wednesday evening, the students in Vocal Director Mrs. Ginger Reinhardt's Musical Theatre program performed in a Musical Theatre Showcase event. Through a wide variety of solos and choreographed group numbers, the students entertained the audience.

Robots Dance in Computer Science Class

12/9/2016

Students in Mrs. Carol Horner's Introduction to Computer Science class designed and built dancing robots. Over a course of nearly three weeks, students designed, contructed, and programmed the robots using Lego Mindstorm components and the Lego Mindstorming software.

Grier Wins High Point Team at IEA

12/8/2016

It was a long weekend for Grier's Varsity Hunt Seat Team, but they came out on top again! On both Saturday and Sunday, the high school team won High Point Team, and the middle school team won Reserve High Point Team.

8th Grade Models of Anne Frank's Annex

12/7/2016

Students in Mrs. Daryl Smith's Honors 8 English class designed models of Anne Frank's secret annex, where her family hid to avoid detection by Nazi soldiers during the Holocaust of World War II. The students completed these projects after reading Anne Frank: Diary of a Young Girl in class.

New Video Provides an Exciting Introduction

12/6/2016

Grier is excited to share a new video highlighting the school's amazing campus and signature programs. Grier girls have the best facilities available to try new things and pursue their passions, both academically and in the arts. Grier wishes to thank Dr. Grier and the other volunteers who helped make this video.

Winter Dance Performance 2016

12/6/2016

Grier dancers graced the stage before a packed audience of students, teachers, friends, and family on Friday's annual Winter Dance Performance. This program was an opportunity for the dancers to demonstrate routines and skills they have been developing throughout the fall semester.

Book Fair This Week!

12/5/2016

After so much anticipation, the Scholastic Book Fair is finally here at Grier! Come to the Library to shop the book fair December 5th - 9th. Find great books at great prices.

Christmas Shopping Event at the Grier Bookstore

12/2/2016

This Friday night, the Grier Bookstore is hosting a special shopping event. To meet the holiday shopping needs of students, the Bookstore will open Friday night at 10pm. Students can buy Grier apparel, gifts, and more! Bookstore Manager Holly Carper and Business Office Assistant Gretchen Hensor also plan to have refreshments and offer free gift wrapping services during the fun and festive event.

November

Western Riding Clinic with Ollie Griffith

11/29/2016

The Grier Riding Department arranges for one or two riding clinics throughout the school year, held right here at Grier School. This year, Riding Director Chrystal Coffelt-Wood is honored to announce that the well-renowned and well-decorated master of riding Ollie Griffith will be a guest clinician of Western Riding on Monday, December 5th.

A Stellar Evening of Painting for Astronomy Club

11/28/2016

Usually, members of Astronomy Club are meeting at the Andrew Wilson Observatory to observe celestial bodies and cosmic events, but they recently spent an evening at a painting workshop to create marvelous scenes of the aurora borealis, or Northern Lights, over a lake nestled in pine-covered mountains.

Thankfulness and Togetherness at Grier

11/24/2016

Students, faculty, and staff got into the holiday spirit for the annual Grier Thanksgiving Luncheon. On this day, the whole Grier community dresses up to enjoy a formal luncheon featuring Thanksgiving favorites, such as turkey, sweet potatoes, stuffing, cranberry sauce, and pumpkin pie.

Yearbook Staff Goes Behind-the-Scenes at Jostens

11/21/2016

The students on Grier's Pineneedle yearbook staff had the fortune to take a field trip to Jostens Corporate Offices in State College, Pennsylvania, to pour over copies of yearbooks, get a behind-the-scenes look, and understand better the process of how their yearbook comes to be.

Grier Student, Teacher Star in Musical "Little Women"

11/18/2016

Yesterday, a group of Grier students saw Shannon B., Grier senior, and Mrs. Julie Hanlon, one of Grier's vocal teachers, perform in the Altoona Community Theatre’s (ACT) production of the musical Little Women.

Riders Represent Grier in Harvest Classic

11/18/2016

Riders Compete in Fall Harvest Classic.

Riders from Grier's Hunter Jumper equestrian program traveled to Swan Lake Stables to compete in the National Hunter/Jumper November Harvest Classic (A) 2*. Highlights include Camila L.’s 2nd place finish in the High Hopeful Jumper Classic, Sophie K.’s first place finish in the SPHSA Children’s Medal and Lauren H. first place finish in the USEF Pessoa Medal and third place finish in the Medal Maclay.

Students Receive AP Scholar Awards from College Board

11/17/2016

At a recent all-school assembly, Grier honored thirteen students who received AP Scholar awards from the College Board. The awards reflect the scores that students received on their AP tests taken in May 2016.

Master Classes Lead to Amazing Dance Gala Showcases

11/16/2016

Throughout the year, guest artists join Grier's dance instructors to provide opportunities for dancers to work with internationally renowned teachers, dancers, and choreographers. Recently, Grier dancers worked with award winning master teacher and choreographer Darrell Grand Moultrie.

Parents' Weekend Performance Videos Now Available

11/15/2016

The Parents Weekend Dance Performance and Music Concert videos are now available for streaming and digital download. Watch the trailer below and learn how to purchase your own digital copies of these professionally produced videos.

Grier Welcomes Visitors from Middle States Association

11/14/2016

Grier recently hosted a team of five evaluators from the Middle States Association of Colleges and Schools Commissions on Elementary and Secondary Schools (MSA). The team spent over three very intensive days reviewing records and planning documents, interviewing key stakeholders at Grier, and touring the facilities. Grier is happy to report that the team recommends to MSA to renew Grier’s accreditation, but this recommendation is only one step in the thorough process to official accreditation renewal.

NHS Sponsors Capture the Flag Event

11/11/2016

Grier's National Honor Society (NHS) organized a school-wide Capture the Flag event to raise funds for charity. Four teams competed to capture the well-guarded flag of another team.

Science Partners with Area Universities

11/10/2016

Grier Science Faculty members have been busy planning and organizing field trips and hands-on events for students, including events that partner with area universities. Recently, Science Club toured Saint Francis University science facilities, including a cadaver lab. Ambassador engineers from Penn State University's Engineering Outreach Program visited the Grier for a day of interactive engineering activities.

Presidential Cookie Contest to Celebrate Election Day

11/9/2016

In honor of Election Day and the traditional cookie bake-off sponsored by Family Circle magazine, history teachers Mrs. Suzanna Long and Mrs. Keri Salyards organized a Presidential Cookie Contest during Extra Help on Tuesday.

Grier Students Volunteer at Local Library

11/8/2016

Members of Grier's chapter of the National Honor Society (NHS) volutneered at Halloween Family Fun Night, an event for children at the local Tyrone-Snyder Public Library. Grier volunteers read stories, sang songs, and oversaw Halloween-themed crafting stations.

Grier Holds Mock Election

11/7/2016

For weeks, students, teachers, and staff at Grier have been casting their ballots in the red and blue ballot box in Mrs. Keri Salyards' classroom. Mrs. Salyards teaches U.S. History and AP U.S. History to tenth grade students at Grier.

In the tradition of Family Circle, Mrs. Salyards will also host a Presidential Spouse Cookie Bake-Off contest on Election Day, November 8th.

Students Engage in Q&A With College Representatives

11/4/2016

Throughout the fall, Grier's College Counseling Department invites representatives from a variety of colleges and universities. Students who are interested in the representative college can meet with the representatives to ask questions and learn more about what each college has to offer.

TV Station Gives Grier Students an Out-of-this-World Service Opportunity

11/3/2016

Grier girls frequently give back to the community through a multitude of community service opportunities, such as their recent participation in a local TV station's Cosmic Carnival Event, a free carnival for children and their family.

Artist-in-Residence Inspires Collaboration

11/2/2016

Art students in Mrs. Laurie Cave's classes had the opportunity to work under the tutelage of visiting artist Alex Zak for an entire week this October. With Zak, students expressed themselves creatively through printmaking and fiber art installations that included rope-making.

Grier's Running Club Debuts as 5K Champions

11/1/2016

Members of Grier's Running Club had their first opportunity to shine when they participated in the 10th Annual Scott Grugan Memorial Run, with all four Grier runners placing and receiving medals and ribbons.

October

Grier Has a Happy Halloween!

10/31/2016

Grier celebrated Halloween on Friday with costume contests, a bonfire, trick-or-treating, and a school dance. During the school day, students and teachers dressed up in costumes that ranged from the beautiful, the silly, and the frightening. Many students and teachers had fun assembling group costumes. Halloween classics like ghosts, vampires, and witches wandered the school halls along with characters from current pop culture.

One School, One Story 2016

10/26/2016

Grier Library's reading program called "One School, One Story" challenges anybody and everybody that is part of the Grier community to read the same book. To participate in the program, simply read this year's selected book: We Should All Be Feminists by Chimamanda Ngozi Adichie. Several copies are available in the Grier Library.

Classemates Bond During Grade-Level Activities

10/25/2016

While sophomore students took the PSAT/NMSQT® (or Preliminary Scholastic Aptitude Test/National Merit Scholarship Qualifying Test), Grier planned a variety of activities for students in other grades. Classmates and their faculty advisors and chaperones bonded during the day's events.

Striker Swoops in to Visit

10/21/2016

The science department had a special visitor this week! Striker, a 15 year-old saker falcon from the Middle East, stopped by for our Grier students to see in person. Striker and his handler, Creature Teacher Jody Wallace from the from the Blair County Conservation District, helped students learn more about falcon adaptations. Falcons are the fastest animals, traveling at speeds of up to 200 miles per hour when in a dive. Fun Fact: A falcon sitting in a tree at Grier School would be able to see a pigeon sitting on a tree in Tyrone!

Grier Students Give Back to Former Librarian

10/20/2016

Tuesday afternoon, students raked leaves and performed yard work for Joan Shotts, resident of Birmingham and former library assistant at Grier. Mrs. Shotts worked in the Grier library for nine years before retiring in 2014. Now, she and her family face a hardship: her husband Art was recently diagnosed with stage 4 pancreatic cancer.

New Video Illustrates Student Life at Grier

10/20/2016

Current and former families and students enjoyed Grier's recent video highlighting the academic opportunities at the school. Grier is pleased to announce another new video. This one illustrates student life at Grier, showcasing dorm life, clubs, sports, trips, and more. Grier extends another thank you to all the film participants and encourages everyone to share this video via the Grier School Facebook feed.

Grier Students Receive National Merit® Commendations

10/19/2016

This year, the National Merit® Scholarship Program commended two Grier students. Seniors Tia K. and Victoria F. received the commendations in recognition of their outstanding academic promise.

Grier Varsity Dressage Team Success at BLM Championships

10/18/2016

Congratulations to the Grier Varsity Dressage Team on their success at the BLM United States Dressage Federation Regional Championships! These championships provide a dressage compeition at the US Equestrian Federation Level. The Virginia Dressage Association (VADA) hosted this year's BLM Championship at the Viriginia Horse Center in Lexington, Virginia.

An Amazing Parents' Weekend

10/17/2016

Grier gives a great big thank you to everyone who helped make this year's Parents' Weekend amazing. Parents and guardians traveled from near and far to visit their daughters and attend the weekend's special events.

Lady Foxes Soccer Wins Against Dubois Christian

10/14/2016

Congratulations to the soccer team on their 6-3 win over Dubois Christian on Monday. Pooch P. had 3 goals, Jaden H. had 2 goals and Nora V. had the other goal.

International Day of the Girl at Grier

10/13/2016

Grier celebrated International Day of the Girl on Tuesday, October 11th. Grier's Empowering Girls Globally (EGG) Club led the festivities. Recognizing the inequalities between boys and girls, the United Nations declared October 11th International Day of the Girl. The mission of the day is "to help galvanize worldwide enthusiasm for goals to better girls' lives, providing an opportunity for them to show leadership and reach their full potential."

Grier Art Instructor's Work on Display at SAMA

10/12/2016

Grier art teacher Yong Sook Kim Lambert has a work featured in an art exhibit called Forty Years of Celebrating Pennsylvania Artists currently on display at the Southern Alleghenies Museum of Art (SAMA) in Altoona, Pennsylvania. The exhibit celebrates SAMA's 40th anniversary and features work by Pennsylvnia's most lauded artists, including Alexander Calder. Calder, who was born in Lawnton, Pennsylvania, is well-known for his mobiles. One of his works is on display right next to a piece by our own Mrs. Lambert!

New Video Highlights Academics at Grier

10/11/2016

We are excited to share our new video highlighting the academic opportunities at Grier School! Our world-class teaching staff and our amazing students showcase what makes our academic program special. Thank you to all of our volunteers who helped with this project and we hope you share it with your friends!

Lady Foxes Soccer Wins Match

10/10/2016

Congratulations to the Grier Lady Foxes Varsity Soccer Team on their 6-2 win over Cambria County Christian. Linden M. had 2 goals, Jaden H. had 1 goal, Lucia S. had 1 goal, Nora V. had 1 goal and Pooch P. had the other goal. Coach Jenn Payne is proud of this year's team and looks forward to more opportunities for the girls to showcase the skills developed during practice.

Observing the Sun Through the Coronado Telescope

10/7/2016

Christine Fernandes

Astronomy club, chemistry students, and even a few visitors touring the school had the opportunity to look at our sun a little more closely today through our Coronado telescope. Students in Mrs. Fernandes’s chemistry class are learning about stellar evolution and density, which helps us understand what will happen to our sun at the end of its “life."

Student Class Officers Elected

10/5/2016

Last week, students met with other students in their grade for the first class meetings of the year. During these meetings, students had the opportunity to run for a class office, including President, Vice President, Secretary, Student Council Rep, and Treasurer. Teacher-advisors facilitated the election process, tallying results of the votes and declaring winners. Class officers will guide their grade class in organizing events, community service projects, fundraising, and fostering school spirit. Student Council Representatives will represent each grade on the Student Council which is Grier’s student government. Student Council officers were elected during May 2016.

Monarch Butterflies Emerge

10/3/2016

The first of several monarch butterflies emerged this week in Mrs. Fernandes Life Science classroom. The students observed the striped monarch caterpillars munch on leaves until they were nice and fat before they each formed a chrysalis where they could undergo the amazing metamorphosis into butterflies. Mrs. Fernandes' classes will release the monarchs into the wild so that they can journey south to Florida for the winter.

September

Sweet Victory for Grier Volleyball

9/30/2016

Congratulations to the Grier volleyball team for the recent win against Sugar Valley. In a best of five match-up the girls won the first two sets (25-10, 25-11) and sealed the win in the fourth set (25-12). The team looks forward to playing Sugar Valley again Oct. 25th and is eager to prove themselves this season.

Grier Hunt Seat Team Awarded High Point

9/29/2016

Grier riders recently competed on home turf in the Zone Two Interscholastic Equestrian Association (IEA) Hunt Seat show. Grier’s Hunt Seat Upper School Team won the title of high point team, with Claire K. winning as high point rider, Ella P. winning reserve high point rider, and Lindsey W. winning the sportsmanship award. First place winners in their events include: Claire K., Ella P., Holly C., Lindsay S., and Shelby H.

Tennis Serves Tyrone Their Just Desserts

9/27/2016

Fall Sports season is upon us, featuring Volleyball, Tennis, Soccer, and Cheerleading. On Thursday, the Lady Foxes Varsity Tennis team won against Tyrone High School. Grier's top five ladies won all of their singles matches and Grier also won one doubles match and an exhibition match. Coach Long is proud of the team and looks forward to the rest of the season.

Three Teachers Join Grier's Faculty

9/26/2016

Grier school is happy to introduce three new Faculty members this year: Ms. Liz Wortman (History), Ms. Mikaela Leners (Science), and Ms. Samantha Knepp (Science). They each have much to offer Grier and look forward to being a part of Grier's tightly-knit community.

A Warm Welcome to Grier

9/21/2016

The only thing warmer than the weather during Opening Weekend this year was the welcome students and their families received from Grier's Administration and Faculty. As families arrived in vehicles laden with dorm room necessities, students checked in at registration tables where they received important information including class schedules.

The Spotlight Shines on Senior Dancer Mikayla

9/16/2016

As Bermuda native Mikayla W. enters her Senior year at Grier, she returns with a summer of great dancing experiences under her belt. Following the urging of Grier’s Dance Director, Jocelyn Hrzic, Mikayla applied to the Point Park University’s International Summer Dance Program in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania. Scholarship funds from the Bermuda Arts Council, allowed Mikayla to attend the prestigious program. Following her time in Pittsburgh, Mikayla performed in the Bermuda Civic Ballet Summer Intensive Program. Mikayla’s story was covered by the Bermuda news source Bernews.

Art & Heart This Summer

9/13/2016

As the students return for another year at Grier, we have been learning about their summer experiences. Junior Elan T. had an exciting summer attending a two week summer seminar series at the Savannah College of Art and Design and volunteering as a horse lead at a therapeutic riding center.

Elan was drawn to Grier in part because of Grier’s robust art and riding programs. During her sophomore year, Elan studied watercolor, drawing, photography, and pottery along with recreational riding. Pursuing her interests during the summer was a natural choice for Elan.

A Thrilling Trip to Cedar Point

9/5/2016

Students in Summer TOEFL® and SAT® Program enjoy a weekend field trip to the famous Cedar Point amusement park. Grier's Summer TOEFL® and SAT® Program not only helps international students improve their test scores and prepare for rigorous academic courses during the Grier academic year, but also offers challenging and varied extracurricular activities and cultural outings.

August

Members of Grier's Faculty Continue Their Education

8/22/2016

Grier teachers understand the importance of learning and personal growth through professional development opportunities. Whether working on additional degrees or certifications, participating in new experiences, or learning more about the world, Grier teachers frequently choose to develop their skills throughout the school year and the summer!

Girlgaze Contest Winner is Grier's Own Bella!

8/10/2016

Congratulations to photographer and Grier senior Bella N. who won the Girlgaze competition. Bella's photography is featured by both Girlgaze and Teen Vogue. The Girlgaze project helps support young female photographers like Bella through exhibitions, publications, and grants.

Grier's Music Teachers are Revamped

8/8/2016

Accomplished violinists Mark Minnich and Sally Williams Minnich teach music lessons at Grier School, but in their spare time they team up to become the innovative violin duo Revamped. Beginning this month, Revamped is showcasing their talents through a series of online GoShows. To learn more about the GoShows, watch their video and visit Revamped online.

July

Learning Continues Through the Summer

7/25/2016

Grier girls continue learning and growing over the summer. Rising senior, Hannah S. enjoyed an internship opportunity through Penn State where she was able to test a device that is designed to assist individuals with vision impairments grocery shop.

Grier Hosts Business After Hours Event

7/11/2016

Recently, Grier hosted a Business After Hours event through the Huntingdon County Chamber of Commerce. Members of our Grier Business Office and Administration connected with local business leaders.

June

Local Amusement Park Trip for 7th & 8th Graders

6/27/2016

While upperclass students prepared for graduation weekend, the seventh and eigth graders visited local attraction, DelGrosso's Amuseument Park. A short drive from Grier, this park was the perfect opportunity for Grier's youngest students to celebrate the end of the school year and burn off some energy before hunkering down for final exams.

Grier Legend Retires

6/13/2016

As the 2015-2016 school year drew to a close, the Grier community bid farewell and best of luck to one of our most venerated teachers, Mr. Charlie Curtis who announced his plans for retirement. Mr. Curtis first joined Grier's History department in 1984 and quickly developed a reputation for his epic "Curtis Tests."

Grier Congratulates the Class of 2016

6/1/2016

Seniors and their parents enjoyed a weekend of Graduation festivities. The events included a Graduation Dinner held in the Gymnasium on Friday night. This was followed by a concert and dance showcase, a final opportunity for the seniors to perform as Grier students. Time time-honored tradition of Candlelight Ceremony followed, with students gathering in the courtyard by candlelight.

May

Student Council Elections 2016

5/30/2016

On Wednesday, May 25th, Grier students voted for Student Council Officers. The elected winners will lead the students during the 2016-2017 year.

Congratulations to:

President - Summer
Vice President - Pei
Secretary - Tina
Treasurer/Scribe - Shannon

Spring Thaw Winners

5/26/2016

In April, many Grier students participated in the Spring Thaw annual juried youth art and writing exhibit, sponsored by the Huntingdon County Arts Council.
This week, photography teacher, Mr. James Pingry, proudly announced the winners.

2016 Underclass Awards Ceremony

5/25/2016

Department Heads proudly presented underclass awards to students before their peers in a school assembly this week. The award winners were selected by faculty members from the departments of: English, History, Math, Modern Languages, and Science for students in grades 9, 10, and 11.

NHS Induction Ceremony

5/24/2016

In a special all-school assembly on Tuesday, May 24th, the Grier chapter of the National Honor Society inducted fourteen new members. These individuals exemplified the four pillars of NHS: Scholarship, Leadership, Service, and Character.

You Make a Difference

5/24/2016

After a half day of classes, the whole school gathered together in the Dance Building for a very special ceremony called "You Make a Difference." Counseling Department Chair, Ms. Cari Crago, opens the ceremony by telling a touching story of how small kindnesses can have very big impacts.

Bowl-n-Soup Sale Raises Money for Grier Community Fund

5/23/2016

Students and teachers purchased handmade ceramic soup bowls at the Bowl-n-Soup sale on Thursday during lunch to raise money for the Grier Community Fund. Ceremaics teacher Mrs. Heidi Zimbler organized the annual event, which featured not only her own pieces, but also the works of her students.

Pottery Class Creates Pieces in Primative Pueblo Style

5/23/2016

Mrs. Zimbler's Hand Building Pottery class created bowls in the primative pueblo style. To do this, the students created pottery bowls and placed these bowls into a metal container along with sawdust to form a smoldering pit kiln.

Grier NHS Volunteers at Local Library

5/19/2016

Members of Grier's National Honor Society (NHS) volunteered one evening at the local Tyrone-Snyder Public Library in Tyrone, Pennsylvania. The NHS members led a children's event that included story time, crafts, and a fun game with a large parachute. Children and their families from the Tyrone community were invited to attend.

An Enchanted Evening at Grier's Prom

5/18/2016

The Grier School Prom was held on May 14 at The Casino at Lakemont Park. Boys traveled from Kiski and Carson Long to join our students in the festivities. The theme was Enchanted Forest, and under a canopy of lights and amidst a magical setting with fairies, woodland animals, and greenery, almost 100 girls danced the night away.

Grier Earns Prizes In State Science Competition

5/17/2016

Congratulations to Grier's five participants in Pennsylvania Junior Academy of Science ctate competition this weekend at Penn State's main campus in State College. Grier competed against students from across the state of Pennsylvania and brought home four first place awards and one second place award. Way to go!

Grier's Ducklings Hatched!

5/16/2016

Grier's ducklings hatched! Students in Mrs. Christine Fernandes' 7th grade Life Sciences class will observe and care for the ducklings for two weeks before the ducklings find permanent homes at local farms.

The Transit of Mercury Captivates Students

5/13/2016

On Tuesday, May 9th, Grier students in Christine Fernandes' classes were lucky to observe a rare event in the sky: the transit of planet Mercury. The students donned special viewing equipment that allows them to safely look at the sun. From the deck of the Andrew Wilson Observatory, the students were able to safely witness the event.

Chemstry Class Lab Day Amazement

5/12/2016

Grier chemistry students were in for a special treat during recent lab days when Juniata College's Science in Motion brought a special lab that allowed students the opportunity to "hold fire" in their hands and witness a rainbow of beautiful flames.

Grier Students Observe Operating Room Surgeries

5/11/2016

Earlier this week, Dr. Nancy Burke took her AP Biology to a Level II Trauma Center. UPMC Altoona surgeons invited the students into the OR to observe a variety of surgeries and ask questions of the surgeons during the operations. Grier would like to thank UPMC Altoona staff and physicians who took excellent care of our students.

Grier competes in Envirothon

5/10/2016

On Tuesday, May 10th, Grier students competed against other high schools in an event called Envirothon, which was held at Juniata College's Raystown Field Station, on Raystown Lake in Huntingdon County, Pennsylvania. Hannah, Tia, Rachel and Nicole received 4th place and Emily, Heather, Helen, Jennifer and Lilian earned 6th place.

Choir Performs at Curve Baseball Game

5/9/2016

Choir members from Grier's Junior Select and Select Singers performed the National Anthem before baseball fans at the People's Natural Gas Field, in Altoona, Pennsylvania. Choir members enjoyed watching the Curve sweep the Richmond Squirrels followed by a fireworks display.

Students Experience Ecology Hands-on at Chicoteague Bay Field Station

5/7/2016

Dr. Nancy Burke and her Marine Biology class enjoyed an exciting four day field trip to the Chincoteague Bay Field Station in Wallops Island, Virginia, for some interactive, hands-on learning about coastal ecology. While learning about theintertidal zone, dune ecology, and maritime forest ecology, the group motored through the bay on a boat excursion, gathered specimen, and identified organisms in a lab setting.

Grier's Team Takes 3rd Place in National Rube-Goldberg Contest!

5/5/2016

Grier competed against schools from across the nation in an online Rube-Goldberg contest and took 3rd place in the High School Division. For this contest, the Grier team, called "The Internationals," created a comically absurd machine that opens an umbrella in 42 steps.

Grier's Mary Poppins Production is a Success!

5/3/2016

Grier's musical production of Mary Poppins was a success! Audiences filled the house for the two-night run this weekend.

The student actors were spot on in their roles, which required acting, singing, and dancing! The clever sets and props helped create the magic, including Poppins' bottomless carpetbag and her quick tidy-up.

Life Sciences Class Raise and Release Trout

5/2/2016

On May 2, 2016 the Grier School life science classes will participate in a Trout Release Day in celebration of the release of the brook trout fingerlings that they raised from eggs as part of Pennsylvania’s Trout in the Classroom (TIC) program.

April

Grier Student Finalist in Hal Leonard Vocal Competition!

4/29/2016

Grier student Julia is a finalist in the early teen voices category of the Hal Leonard National Vocal Competition, the only vocal competition for all of North America aimed at singers ages 23 and under.

Entrants are required to sing two contrasting songs from a specific list of songs. Watch Julia perform "I'm Not At All In Love" from The Pajama Game and "On My Own" from Les Miserables in the video below.

Grier Student Semi-Finalist in National Vocal Competition

4/27/2016

Grier student Shannon is a semi-finalist in the Hal Leonard National Vocal Competition, the only vocal competition for all of North America aimed at singers ages 23 and under.

Entrants are required to sing two contrasting songs from a specific list of songs. Watch Shannon perform "Pulled" from Addam's Family and "One Perfect Moment" from Bring It On in the video below and see her live in the role of Bert in Grier's upcoming production of Mary Poppins.

Fantastic Show at IEA National Finals

4/26/2016

Congrats to Grier girls on their fantastic show at the 2016 IEA National Finals held in Lexington, KY! The middle school team finished 5th overall and the high school team finished 7th overall.

Total ribbon count- 1 National Champion, 1 National Reserve Champion, 2 -3rd places, 4-5th places, 2-6th places, 2-7th places, and 3-8th places.

Grier Students Complete Hyner View Trail Challenge

4/25/2016

On Saturday, April 23rd, Jaden and Tess from Grier completed the 10th Annual Hyner Trail Challenge. The Hyner Trail Challenge is a 16.4 mile rugged and challenging trail race up and down three large mountains north of Lock Haven, PA.

Jaden and Tess have been preparing for this event by running after school and training during Spring Break. Their hard work certainly paid off. The girls completed the race in 4 hours and 4 minutes, placing 5th and 6th in their age category (Under 19, female).

Duck Eggs Provide Hands-On Learning in Embryology

4/22/2016

During their unit on embryology, 7th grade students in Mrs. Fernandes' Life Sciences class incubate duck eggs. The students candle the eggs periodically to examine embryo development. Students observe the blood vessels in the yolk sack and watch for movement in the developing chick. The chicks are expected to hatch on May 12, after 26 days of incubation. Students will observe and care for the ducklings for two weeks before the ducklings find permanent homes at local farms.

Grier Choir to Perform at Penn State

4/13/2016

Sunday, April 17th, Grier's Choir Director Ginger Reinhardt and Grier's Select Singers will perform a piece in the show From Avant-Garde to Cabaret at Penn State Altoona alongside music professionals. Grier's singers will premiere a newly composed song cycle titled Eight Foot Bride by Timothy Melbinger. The concert begins at 2pm in the Misciagna Family Center for the Performing Arts and is free and open to the public.

Athletic Banquet Honors Varsity Athletes

4/12/2016

On Sunday afternoon, Athletic Director Cherie Gates honored Grier Varsity Athletes and coaches during a sumptuous banquet at Calvin House in Altoona. Athletes from Tennis, Soccer, Volleyball, Basketball, Fencing, Cheerleading, and Riding attended this annual banquet. Athletes bestowed corsages upon their coaches, while coaches shared stories of memorable moments during the season and presented awards to outstanding athletes. Everybody enjoyed the dinner and opportunity to bond with fellow athletes and reflect upon the past season.

Spring Dance Performance Gives Sneak Peek

4/11/2016

Friday night's Spring Dance Performance was, as we have come to expect, a fabulous showcase of Grier dancers. The program featured numbers from every dance class and choreography by Grier faculty, guest faculty, and students. The song "Supercalifragilisticespialidocious" gave the audience a sneak peek at the upcoming Grier musical Mary Poppins.

Students Design Rube Goldberg Machine

4/9/2016

Twelve Science Club students completed an entry into this year's online Rube Goldberg Machine Contest. The machine had to open an umbrella in 20-75 steps. The Grier machine completed the task successfully in about 42 steps and did so with an international flair.

Grier Western Champions Are Headed to Nationals!

4/5/2016

Congratulations to everyone who competed at The Zone 2 Championships! Both the upper school and middle school western teams were Zone 2 champions and moving on to national finals!

Teachers Volunteer for Pie-in-the-Face to Help Fundraise

4/4/2016

In an effort to help fundraise for the Senior Class Trip, several of Grier faculty members volunteered to be a recipient of a pie-to-the-face. Students pledged funds as they "voted" for the teachers they would most like to see receive a pie-to-the-face.

Rockfest Rocked!

4/2/2016

Grier musicians and vocalists took to the Auditorium stage Friday night for Grier's wildest music concert of the year: Rockfest! The students performed new and classic pop and rock songs under the colorful lights of the Auditorium stage. This year, photography teacher Mr. Pingry and English teacher Mr. Lang were among the teachers who accompanied the students for a show that brought down the house.

Stargazing Students Spot the International Space Station

4/2/2016

Students met Friday night at Grier's Andrew Wilson Observatory to stargaze. Through the lenses of telescopes and with the naked eye, the students observed the International Space Station as it passed overhead.

March

Grier Riders Compete at HITS Ocala

3/26/2016

Grier riders traveled to Ocala, Florida during Spring Break to compete in the HITS Winter Circuit. Congratulations to all the riders who competed for a great show. Claire was was champion in Intermediate Equitation and placed in the Mini MaClay and HITS Medal classes. Elizabeth was champion in Modified Children's Hunters and Post Time Hunters and a 3rd place finish in the Marshall and Sterling Children's Medal. Lauren was reserve Champion in the 3'3 15-17 Equitation, 3rd place in the Marshall and Sterling 3'3 Horsemanship Medal and ribbons in the Mini MaClay, HITS Medal and Children's Hunters. Ella was reserve champion in the Hopeful Jumpers and won many great ribbons in the Low Children's jumpers. Charlotte was 2nd place in the Marshall and Sterling Pre-Adult Medal and placed in the Pre-Adult Hunters and Equitation including a 1st place finish in the Maiden Equitation on the flat. Emma and Andrea won many top ribbons in the Low Children's jumpers.

Grier's Monthly Giving Project

3/23/2016

For the Monthly Giving Project, homerooms compete to collect the most items for a deserving local charity. Volunteers help collect items from the homerooms, pack the donations, and deliver them to the local community. Here, students have loaded a van with pet food and supplies for the Huntingdon County Humane Society.

Grier Competes in 2016 PA National Archery in Schools Program

3/17/2016

On Friday March 11, two members of Grier’s archery team participated in the 2016 PA NASP Tournament. The NASP tournament is a yearly archery competition comprised of all schools participating in the National Archery in Schools Program (NASP)within Pennsylvania. There were approximately 918 shooters participating in this year’s tournament, 406 of whom were girls.

Grier Girls Sweep Regional Science Competition

3/8/2016

Each year, students enrolled in Dr. Nancy Burke's Honors Biology classes complete a long-term research project. Students with the top projects, out of approximately thirty others, are invited to present at the Region 6 Pennsylvania Junior Academy of Science's Regional Competition. This year's competition was held at Penn State Altoona on March 5, 2016.

During Saturday's regional PJAS competition, seven Grier students competed and all won awards. The projects presented by our students varied from Determining the Effect of Vibration Frequencies on Spider Web Formation to The Level of Induction of the Green Fluorescent Protein Gene in Response to a Concentration Gradient of the Inducer Molecule Arabinose.

Grier Riders Host IEA Regional Championships

3/7/2016

This weekend, Grier School proudly hosted the Interscholastic Equestrian Association's Regional Championship. Our riders deserve a huge congratulations as they received an abundance of accolades.

The Grier School Hunt Seat Upper School Team won Reserve Champion, qualified for Zone 2 Finals, and closed out the 2015-2016 season as Region 1 Hunt Seat High Point Upper School Team. Both our Upper School and Middle School Western Teams also qualified for Zone 2 finals. Many individual riders won year-end awards, including the Sportsmanship Award, Grier Horse Award, Horse of the Day Award, and more.

Music Department Showcases a Variety of Pieces in Spring Concert

3/7/2016

Following the bell that signaled the end of the school day, students filed into the Performing Arts Building to enjoy the afternoon concert presented by the Grier School Music Department. Since their last concert in mid-December, the participating student musicians have been hard at work, learning a wide-range of technically challenging and expressive pieces.

Six New Members Join Grier School Language Honor Society

3/7/2016

On Monday, March 7th, the Grier School Language Honor Society welcomed six new members in an induction ceremony held in the Living Room during Extra Help period. This year's recipients have all shown a deep interest in the study of Spanish and French as observed by the faculty in the Modern Languages Department. The new inductees were joined by existing members of the Honor Society and the Grier Community was invited to witness and celebrate the special occasion.

February

Sweet Treats For Sale

2/14/2016

The 7th and 8th graders' annual fundraiser bake sale was held Friday, February 12th following lunch.

Along with their class advisor, Mrs. Davis, the 7th and 8th grade students solicited donations of baked goods from teachers and fellow students. The sale featured a huge variety of cupcakes, brownies, cookies, fudge, and other treats, many of which were Valentine-themed. What a success and a great way to kick off the Valentine's Day weekend.

January

Lady Foxes Basketball at DuBois

1/14/2016

We wish the Lady Foxes good luck as they continue their 2015-2016 season after returning from winter break. Today, they play against DuBois Christian School in DuBois, Pennsylvania.

Be sure to check out their full schedule and the schedules for all our varsity teams on the Athletics page. Our student athletes appreciate your support!