Addie Jaynes

College Choice: University of Richmond

Senior Class President, a starring role in the Upper School Musical, academic honors, and scholarship awards, name just a few of the highlights on Addie Jaynes’ impressive resume.

She shares some words of wisdom with younger students. “I want to tell any McGehee girls who are younger than me to cherish all your years at McGehee because they truly fly by! You blink and suddenly you are a senior. I feel very lucky that I got to grow up here, and I truly couldn't have asked to have been surrounded by a better community for the past 15 years. Having a mom who is a lower school faculty member gave me a special relationship with many McGehee students who are younger than me, and my main goal growing up was always to serve as a role model for them.”

Addie stated, “McGehee has instilled many valuable core values deep inside of me that I will continue to carry with me outside of these gates. Throughout my years at this school, I have truly learned how to lead with honor, integrity, empathy, and confidence. While I am not exactly sure what I want to do in life, I can always trust that staying true to these ideals will guide me on whatever path I choose to venture down.”

When asked about inspirational teachers, Addie mentioned several...“Mr. Waguespack has been an amazing advisor to me for the past three years, as well as an amazing math teacher. Math has definitely never been my strong suit, but he has truly helped me unlock my full potential as a math student and has been so encouraging and uplifting in all of my conferences about my progress. Moreover, he has a gift for truly seeing the potential in all his students, constantly making them feel valued and empowered. I appreciate everything he has done for me more than he knows! Additionally, Ms. Buchtel has been a faculty member who I have looked up to since I was just a little 10 year old in the 4th grade musical. I love her because not only is she amazing at her job, but she is an even more amazing human being. She is so positive, caring, and encouraging—just going into her room and having a conversation with her can instantly brighten my day. She is one of the teachers who genuinely treats me like I am her own child, and I am really going to miss her next year!”

Addie also paid tribute to every single faculty member at McGehee, remarking, “They have all played such a vital role in shaping me into the confident, driven, and honorable person I am today. I have never once been afraid to reach out to a teacher and ask for help, nor have I ever been scared to share my opinion in a classroom environment in fear of judgment. The McGehee faculty is truly special, and they have done an exceptional job making me feel valued as a student and as an overall person.”

While difficult to narrow down, Addie’s favorite tradition is Spirit Day because it is such a perfect embodiment of what it means to be a McGehee girl. She said, “You spend the day cheering on your teammates, serving as a leader to those who are younger than you, and letting your creativity shine through your cheers and costumes. Every year the whole school really comes together to create such a memorable day that fosters a sense of pride and belonging in our school community.”

Addie will attend The University of Richmond this fall and admires the student dynamic, the beautiful campus and the welcoming vibe of the community.

Grade Started at McGehee: Pre-K
Activities and Awards at McGehee: