September 2023

RCPS Division Newsletter

Homecoming Happenings

RCHS Pep Rally

Following an exciting spirit week, RCHS held a festive pep rally on Friday, September 22nd, before the football game. The cheer team kicked it off with a fantastic performance, elevating enthusiasm in the gymnasium. Relays, a cup-flipping contest, and a humorous cheese ball throwing competition further raised the energy level before each grade battled head-to-head to see who could cheer the loudest. While the judges, Dr. Grimsley and Ms. Sanborn, said it was close, the seniors won the coveted spirit stick.

Homecoming Football Game

The excitement continued with a fantastic turnout during the homecoming football game later that evening. Band alums joined the RCHS band to provide music throughout the event while the cheer team ignited the crowd. The half-time festivities included a phenomenal performance by the RCHS Marching Band under the direction of Band Director Ms. Kalia Page. Additionally, attendees were introduced to the 2023 Homecoming Court, escorted by proud family and friends. The stadium was filled with applause as Daniel Gallardo and Glori Sell, both juniors were crowned Homecoming Prince and Princess, and seniors Abigail Atkins and Luke Martz were crowned King and Queen. Ultimately, the Panthers won 87-14 against the visiting team, Massanutten Military Academy.

Homecoming Dance

While the homecoming dance, initially scheduled for Saturday, was canceled due to Tropical Storm Ophelia, students came out to dance the night away on Sunday, September 24th. It was a gorgeous evening filled with laughter, good times, and beautiful weather as students made memories on the dance floor under the expansive tent. Ultimately, the students had a fantastic evening!

RCPS would like to extend a thank you to Ms. Dani Pond and everyone who worked hard Saturday to pull off the homecoming dance the following day. Additionally, we would like to sincerely thank everyone who decorated the Malibu Barbie-themed event and served as chaperones on the new date. Also, thank you to Sheriff Connie Compton and deputies for providing security and keeping our students safe throughout the event. The rescheduled dance was a huge success thanks to collaboration and hard work of RCHS staff and the Rapp community.

Student Recognitions

RCES Panthers of the Month

Congratulations to our RCES Panthers of the Month! This month's students were selected by teachers for demonstrating good citizenship and leadership amongst their peers. On Friday, Sept. 29th, the students were treated to a special recognition luncheon with Ms. Wissinger and Ms. Lowe-Barton!

PreK- Kendra Velasquez and Grace Dodson

K- Bailey Proper, Clara Covert, Nash Barron, and Audrey Stockdale

1st- Camila Munguia and Ryleigh Miller

2nd- Bentley Proper, Genevieve Frelk, and Izzy Cairns

3rd- Rhett Choi, Ryker Breeden, Joanna Ruiz Bayly, and Mikayla Hatfield

4th- Paige Robinson, Ella Gray, and Cannon Sharp

5th- Kade Tederick, Edith Smith, and Reagan Sisk

6th- Dylan Reid, Serenity Leake, and Sawyer Pond

7th- Alex Settle, Jason Williams, and Cole Phillips

Isaac Scheulen, RCHS senior, has received the National Rural and Small Town Recognition Award from the College Board National Recognition Program. This national honor recognizes academic excellence reflected in GPA and outstanding performance in AP Exams, PSAT/NMSQT, or PSAT 10 tests. Congratulations, Isaac! Pictured: Isaac and one of his incredibly proud teachers, Mr. Stockdale. Contributed photo

A Look Back at the Month in Pictures

RCES Farm-to-Table students planted an assortment of vegetables and herbs, which will eventually be served in the school cafeteria.

RCHS students in Ms. Goode's Sports Medicine class created 3D models of the anatomy of the skin, complete with labels of each structure and it's function. Photo by Brandi Goode

RCES students received high-fives and cheerful greetings from volleyball and football teams at the start of the school day.

RCHS students in Small Animal Care and Management class practiced their dog grooming skills on two French Bulldogs. They washed, dried, dremeled nails, and brushed the dogs' teeth.

Ms. Tuel's 4th grade class worked in small groups to mold clay into the shape of Virginia and create the regions using different colors and textures. Photo by Alivia Tuel

RCHS Principal Carlos Seward and teacher Kathryn Waters presented in the newly renovated library to the School Board during the September meeting.

RCES students enjoyed hummus and bell peppers during the monthly Harvest of the Month taste testing activity.

RCHS juniors and seniors had a blast competing in the Powderpuff Football game, a fundraiser for the Class of 2025.

Ms. Aylor's class enjoyed Jersey Day during the RCES Spirit Week. Photo by Carmen Aylor

Announcements

Fit Kids Clinic to Open on Monday, October 2nd!

We are excited to announce that our Fit Kids Clinic will reopen on Monday, October 2nd, for students and staff. If your child gets sick at school, it's not always easy to leave work. Telehealth makes it easier. With your consent, our Tele-Health Presenter will use video telehealth technology to connect your child with a provider at Valley Health. In most cases, your child can be diagnosed without leaving school or you having to leave work. Conditions treated include: asthma, allergies, cough, colds, flu, ear aches, sore throats, fever, headaches, head lice, pink eye, and skin irritations. This clinic saves valuable time (for students and parents) and reduces absenteeism. The clinic is available for all students in grades PreK-12 with parental consent. Parents and Guardians- you can find the necessary paperwork HERE.

Meet our new Tele-Health Presenter, Brandi Goode! Brandi (pictured above) holds a degree in Medical Assisting, with additional certifications in Phlebotomy, Pharmacy, and Nutrition. Brandi has worked in a variety of healthcare settings over the past 15 years to include family practices, specialty clinics, urgent care centers, and emergency departments. In addition to clinical experience, Brandi has 7 years of experience as a Healthcare Certification Instructor. She has taught for American National University, Laurel Ridge Community College, Rapp Center for Education, and currently, RCHS.