The Riviera Press
Issue 1: Week of September 20-24
The Riv is Back and Better Than Ever
We are officially one month into our new school year, and it is safe to say, life at the Riv is Back! During the previous school year, students were divided through online and in-person learning. However, due to all of our safety protocols, we have been able to successfully allow for 100% of students to be back on campus in a safe, yet fun and nurturing way that allows for the mission of Riviera to continue as normally as possible.
Classes have resumed, activities and events are taking place, and learning is on full blast at the Riv-- still following our COVID safety procedures of course! Our new addition of the Cube has allowed for more occupancy, and the pavered courtyard gives students the chance to hangout and have fun before and after school, as well as during break and lunch time. The senior gift from the 2020- 2021 graduates was a life-size chess set for the courtyard. Earlier this week we received the gift and placed it in the plaza for everyone to enjoy. As for events, we are so excited to have Spirit Week and Field Day coming back in full swing! Riviera is ecstatic to see teachers and students on campus, and we are eager to see how this year unfolds with all the exciting memories yet to be made!
Sophia Fidanque ‘23
Hispanic Heritage Month
Hispanic Heritage Month has begun! From September 15 to October 15, Riviera students will be honoring and embracing their cultures and heritages. In Señora Armendaris' Spanish class, they have been doing just that. Native speakers have begun a new activity called “Muestra Martes," in which they bring objects from their cultures to show and explain to their friends. Students brought a variety of objects from flags to their great grandmother's baby clothes. Señora Armendaris explained how she felt this brought her students together in understanding each other and sparked an interest in students to learn more about their different cultures and customs. She has many ideas planned throughout the month, including some of those including a short video explaining their culture and influential hispanic individuals. We’re so happy to have Ms. Armendaris and her love and enthusiasm for all of our cultures.
Alejandra Lopez '23
Senior Spotlight: Genesis Rodriguez - Pursuing Citizenship
Our very own Riviera senior, Genesis Rodriguez, has started her own non-profit organization, Pursuing Citizenship. In her organization, Genesis helps immigrants achieve the American dream by tutoring them for the U.S. citizenship exam. When asked why Genesis was inspired to start this project she said, “I come from a Cuban background, and for a while, I wanted to create an organization to give back to the community that has given me so much. Through Pursuing Citizenship I am able to help legal immigrants explore the many opportunities the United States has to offer and help them come in contact with the American Dream.” If you would like to lend a helping hand or know anyone interested in receiving help for the exam, you can reach out through the Instagram page @pursuingcitizenship. We are so incredibly proud of Genesis and her selfless dedication to the community!
Angelique Francis ‘22
Sports are Back at the Riv!
Riviera sports have come back into full swing for the 2021-2022 school year! Varsity volleyball players started pre-season training and have been working hard ever since. Recently, they went to a Chaminade tournament, and in the face of fierce competition, had an immersive finish. Rayna Anders was recognized and selected as an All Tournament player. Last week, the team had dominant wins over La Salle high school and Terra high school.
Varsity swimming had a recent swim meet at Ransom Everglades and placed second overall! The Riviera cross country team had a meet at Palmer Trinity where Roman Giffune set a school record. He became the first Bulldog to ever break 18 miutes in the 5K, finishing 4th in 17:52 seconds. The varsity golf team is also having a successful season; they won first place in their recent match at Palmetto Golf Course. Riviera wants to congratulate all of their athletes, coaches, and overall teams in their wins and commitment. We can’t wait to see what the year brings!
Sarah Pachon ‘23
Riviera Preparatory School
Email: riviera@rivieraschools.com
Website: www.rivieraschools.com
Location: 9775 Southwest 87th Avenue, Miami, FL, USA
Phone: 786-300-0300
Facebook: facebook.com/rivieraschools