Spencer Gayles
McGill-Toolen Class of 2011
Spencer Gayles is the epitome of a well-rounded student. He excels in the academic arena with an all Honors and AP curriculum. He is a member of the National Honor Society and has a 3.63 GPA. He received full scholarships to LSU and Springhill College and received the Spirit of Auburn Foundation Scholarship. He has chosen to attend LSU where he will march in the Tiger Marching Band.
Spencer is also dedicated to serving the community and living his Catholic faith. He is an active member of the Servants of the Poor, Pro-Life Club and Campus Ministry. He volunteers much of his time to community service. He was recently awarded the Development Office “Jacket Jubilation Meritorious Award” for his countless hours of service which are often done behind-the-scenes for no other reward or recognition other than helping and serving others. He is also a Student Ambassador and is a favorite on the McT Road Shows at his alma mater, St. Ignatius. He is the perfect student to speak on the topic of extracurricular involvement since he is involved in so much at McT!
But the thing Spencer is most passionate about is his music. He plays the violin, the guitar, and saxophone. He is a member of the McT Marching Band, Jazz Band and Symphoic Band. He attributes his self-motivation and persistence to his being a self-taught musician. “Regardless of whether it is learning an instrument or climbing the corporate ladder, it is ultimately up to one’s self to decide whether or not success is plausible.” Spencer feels he learned the importance of teamwork and self –discipline through being a part of the McT marching band. He says, “You have to have a lot of trust in your teammates when you have eighty band members walking backwards and anticipating being in the correct spot at the correct time”. He is also a member of the Chamber Singers, utilizing his musical talents in even another medium.
Spencer is a student who can “do it all and do it well”. His dedication to academics, service to others and his music will take him far in life.
Student Activities
The extracurricular program at McGill-Toolen is designed to develop talents and skills as well as qualities of scholarship, leadership, service and character.
The wide variety of offerings provide opportunities for every student to enrich and supplement his or her classroom education. At the same time the programs bring out the best in the students by challenging them to strive for excellence.
Nearly 60% of the students participate in organized athletics. Girls’ athletic programs were ranked nationally in 1986-88, 1992, 1998-99, 2000-2001, and 2001-2002. To date, McGill-Toolen athletic teams hold 58 state titles.
Over 75 percent of students participate in extracurricular activity.
Students compete in regional, state, and national workshops, athletic tournaments, and performing arts and scholastic competitions.
Voted
BEST PRIVATE HIGH SCHOOL IN MOBILE
2007-2008-2009-2010
