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CHEERLEADER PERSONIFIES RHS SPIRIT |
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Rae'ven Riggins, an RHS varsity cheerleader, loves cheering just like the rest of her squad, but her road to becoming a cheerleader was a bit different.
In 2009 Rae'ven first began cheering as part of a competitive squad, Cheer Athletics Superkatz, which is made up of girls with special needs.
Rae'ven has Rubinstein-Taybi Syndrome, a specific pattern of physical features and developmental disabilities which occur together. She was diagnosed at two weeks old because of a curvature in her thumbs. "We were, of course, dumbfounded because we had never heard of Rubinstein-Taybi Syndrome before," shared Rae'ven's mom, LaShara. "She had numerous surgeries during the first two years of her life and didn't start walking until the age of three, but she's been on the go ever since."
Jeff Bivins, RHS cheerleading sponsor, saw Rae'ven at a cheerleading competition he was judging. About the same time, he was approached by an RHS mom about Rae'ven participating with the squad. After a bit of coordination, Rae'ven joined the RHS varsity cheerleading squad, with Sheila Hyde, her behavioral teacher, assisting.
"Once Rae'ven started cheering at Cheer Athletics, she began to blossom," said Ms. Hyde. "Now, as part of the Richardson squad, the cheerleaders help her find her spot and encourage her to do the chants and cheers with them. Mr. Bivens has worked her into a stunt where she gets to be a base - which is a huge responsibility for her. All of these things have gone a long way in making Rae'ven feel like she's part of the team."
"Being on the cheerleading squad allows Rae'ven to be a part of the high school experience, whereas she would've only been involved in activities that are just for the special education class," said Rae'ven's mom. "I also feel, though, that this isn't an experience just for Rae'ven. I believe that the other cheerleaders are gaining from this, too. They're learning empathy for their fellow students who have different abilities - learning that everyone has the ability to fit in and participate."
All of the cheerleaders are grateful to have Rae'ven on their squad and seem to agree that Rae'ven's positive attitude and cheerful personality make her quite an asset. Madison Rindfleisch, a fellow RHS cheerleader, shared, "Rae'ven impacts me in a way that no one else does. She makes me smile every time I see her. I can be having the worst day ever and I see Rae'ven and she runs to me to give me a big hug and my day is already better. She is such a positive light."
"Rae'ven is always excited to take part in a pep rally or cheer on the field and her energy is infectious to all of us," said Elizabeth Metzger, varsity cheerleader captain.
RHS Cheerleader Carly Fein agrees and adds, "I'm proud to be part of a team from a school with coaches that recognize and support opportunities for all its students. Rae'ven is the true spirit of an RHS Cheerleader!"
Rae'ven's mom added, "I'm appreciative that Richardson High School has opened the door of opportunity for special education students. Times have changed from when special needs students were kept in one classroom and not allowed to interact with the general student body." >Top |
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Board Approves Bond Refinancing For Estimated savings of $1.5M |
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Similar to how a homeowner might refinance their mortgage, the RISD Board of Trustees has authorized the district to take advantage of historically low interest rates to refinance eligible bonds. The approval allows the district the opportunity to convert or refinance outstanding bonds, providing RISD an estimated interest savings of $1.52 million over the life of the bonds.
"This authorization will allow RISD to take advantage of the current bond market environment to provide district taxpayers substantial savings," said Tony Harkleroad, RISD Assistant Superintendent for Finance and Support Services. "The district continually monitors all of our outstanding debt for opportunities to convert or refinance based on a variety of indicators."
"Financial stewardship, while providing an outstanding education to our students, is a hallmark of this district," said Board of Trustees President Kim Quirk. "The Board applauds our staff for continuing to provide excellence in operations."
The interest savings is expected to be realized without extending the life of the bonds. >Top |
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2011 National Merit Semifinalists |
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Twelve RISD seniors were recently named National Merit Semifinalists in the 56th annual National Merit Scholarship Program. These academically talented high school seniors have an opportunity to continue in the competition for some 8,200 National Merit Scholarships, worth more than $36 million, that will be offered next spring. To be considered for a Merit Scholarship award, Semifinalists must fulfill several requirements to advance to the Finalist level of the competition.
Students achieve 2011 National Merit recognition by taking the 2009 Preliminary SAT/National Merit Scholarship Qualifying Test (PSAT) which serves as an initial screen of program entrants. The nationwide pool of Semifinalists, which represents less than one percent of U.S. high school seniors, includes the highest scoring entrants in each state.
To become a Finalist, a Semifinalist must have an outstanding academic record throughout high school, be endorsed and recommended by the high school principal, and earn SAT scores that confirm the student's earlier performance on the qualifying test. The Semifinalist and high school official must submit a detailed scholarship application, which includes the student's essay and information about the Semifinalist's participation and leadership in school and community activities.
Congratulations to RISD's 2011 National Merit Semifinalists!
Rachel Bressler, Pearce HS
Emily Dawson, Lake Highlands HS
Molly Francis, Pearce HS
Tatum Frank, Pearce HS
Mark Fulbright, Richardson HS
Morgan Funderburk, Richardson HS
Bradley Harmon, Pearce HS
Rachel MacFarlane, Richardson HS
Roman Milan, Lake Highlands HS
Bailey Myers-Morgan, Richardson HS
Zachary Tobin, Pearce HS
Harrison Wallace, Pearce HS >Top |
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Three RISD Students Named National Achievement Semifinalists |
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The National Merit Scholarship Corporation has announced that three RISD seniors have been named 2011 National Achievement Scholarship Program Semifinalists.
Berkner High School's Kalindra Green-Ellison and Micah Mosely and Richardson High School's Kemji Edo are among just 1,600 Black American high school seniors named semifinalists, and they will now have an opportunity to pursue Finalist status and one of the approximately 800 National Achievement Scholarship awards offered next spring.
They earned their status as National Achievement Semifinalists by scoring in the top one percent nationally among the more than 160,000 Black Americans high school juniors requesting consideration when they took the 2009 Preliminary SAT/National Merit Scholarship Qualifying Test. Semifinalists are designated within geographic regions and are the highest-scoring program entrants in the states that make up each region.
Congratulations! >Top |
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This week approximately 150 freshmen from all four RISD high schools attended a special seminar held at the University of Texas at Dallas campus designed to help them understand the opportunities currently in front of them as they begin their secondary education in earnest. These "students of promise" were chosen by faculty or staff members based on their potential to be successful in college and beyond.
The students heard from four very successful panelists, all of whom shared advice, words of caution, often-blunt motivation and inspiration.
"You can be great, or you can be average," said Arthur George, Senior Vice President, Analog Engineering Operations for Texas Instruments. The choice to pursue greatness is a choice only you can make. Making no choice is the same as choosing to be average." |
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The program, named The Compelling Why - Seminars for Students of Promise by founder and president Torrence H. Robinson, aims to inspire and motivate through successful, real-world role models and honest, open dialogue. "I see myself in so many of today's students," said Robinson, whose day job is Director of Education/Workforce for Texas Instruments. "It's critical that young people see and hear from successful professionals who have sat where they're sitting, and help them understand that the journey from high school freshman to successful professional is not farfetched, but requires engagement in school and a conscious decision to take advantage of what education is offering them."
"The seeds you plant now will bear fruit the rest of your life," said panelist Carl Dorvil, President and CEO of Group Excellence. "Developing an ethic of hard work now will lay the groundwork for a successful, rewarding life. Deciding to be lazy now is setting yourself up for failure."
"Take advantage of what high school has to offer you now to develop your skills, because it doesn't get easier once you're in the workforce," urged Michael Pegues, an attorney with Bracewell & Giuliani, LLP. "You have teachers and people available to you now who care about you and can help you on your path. Be smart. Engage them. Learn from them. Because once you're out of school, those opportunities are gone."
Following the panel, which included a robust question and answer session, students learned more about engagement and enrichment opportunities available at their schools. After lunch, the day concluded with an informational session from UTD about college life and expectations.
The Compelling Why is sponsored by Southern Methodist University, UT Dallas, AMS Pictures, Haynes Boone, LLP, and is partnered with AVID (Advancement Via Individual Determination), Boys and Girls Club of Greater Dallas, Education is Freedom, Girls Inc., Group Excellence and Urban League of Greater Dallas. >Top |
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Richardson Youth Leadership |
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Thirty RISD high school students are developing important teamwork and leadership skills outside of school through participation in Richardson Youth Leadership (RYL). Again this year, students from all four RISD high schools are participating in the seven month program, spending one afternoon a month at various sites in the Richardson area learning about their community.
Activities are designed to develop leadership and teamwork skills. Session topics include leadership, social and cultural issues, volunteerism, education, city government, business, health care, and criminal justice. RYL is sponsored by the Leadership Richardson Alumni Association in cooperation with the Richardson Independent School District and offers participants an exciting opportunity to develop leadership potential. >Top |
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| 2010 RYL members from RISD include: |
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Preston Anderson, PHS
David Asher, BHS
Marla Bailey, RHS
Kelly Bangert, PHS
Ciara Bergin, PHS
Andrew Bryan, BHS
Katherine Cotten, PHS
Julia Dankberg, LHHS |
Grace Evans, PHS
Garrett Foster, BHS
Megan Garcia, LHHS
Bill Headrick, LHHS
Nicole Joison, PHS
Travis Kassab, PHS
Brad Kellner, PHS
Mary Ellen Kidd, LHHS
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Darby Knox, PHS
Lauren Liles, PHS
Hannah Moss, RHS
Chantalle Palamo, PHS
Claire Parsons, PHS
Sofia Rangel, BHS
Chandler Rowland, PHS
Nathan Sandel, LHHS
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Kristen Schell, BHS
Tangela Seals, BHS
Alex Smith, PHS
Cara Tolmas, PHS
Madeline Tucker, PHS
Jack Wolf, BHS |
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RISD AGAIN RECEIVES TOP STATE RATING FOR FINANCES |
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The State of Texas recently announced that Richardson ISD has again received a rating of "Superior Achievement" under the Financial Integrity Rating System of Texas (FIRST). The Superior Achievement rating is the highest available, demonstrating the quality of RISD's financial management and reporting system.
This is the sixth year of FIRST ratings, which examines 24 financial accountability indicators and factors within Texas school districts to evaluate their performance in the management of financial resources. RISD has earned the top rating of Superior Achievement every year the system has existed.
The Schools FIRST accountability rating system assigns one of four financial accountability ratings to every Texas school district, with the highest rating being "Superior Achievement," followed by "Above-Standard Achievement," "Standard Achievement" and "Substandard Achievement."
For a more information regarding FIRST, please click here. >Top |
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Blue Bell Celebrates Lake Highlands Blue Ribbon |
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Also on hand to enjoy the frozen treats and celebrate the school's award were RISD Superintendent Dr. Kay Waggoner, Assistant Superintendent Bob Devoll, Michael Freeman, Coordinating Director of Special Projects, and Terry Harris and Debbie Deaton, both Executive Directors of Curriculum.
Principal Veronica Escalante was thrilled to recognize the achievement of the students, staff and parents of Lake Highlands Junior High.
When the National Blue Ribbon Schools award ceremony takes place in Washington, D.C. in November later this year, both Principal Escalante and former LHJH Principal Lorraine Burrell will both be in attendance.
Blue Bell Creameries, based in Brenham, Texas, has practiced the tradition of honoring Blue Ribbon schools for the last 12 years.
Thanks to their five branches in North Texas, Dover Elementary, the other RISD school to earn the National Blue Ribbon School award, will be similarly treated to an ice cream party in November.
Blue Bell representatives Jerry Ferguson, Rick Murphree and Derek McDonald were all smiles as they stood at the cafeteria door handing out the best ice cream in the country.
They also presented Principal Escalante and LHJH with a large book detailing the history of the creamery.
Mr. Ferguson noted Bluebell's focus on rewarding outstanding schools and spoke highly of the junior high.
"Blue Bell is so happy to recognize the students and staff of LHJH for their continued excellence in education!"
Hard work certainly pays off – just ask those happy, ice cream eating 7th and 8th graders.
(This story was originally published at www.lakehighlandstoday.com) >Top |
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RISD TERRACE ELEMENTARY'S CARNIVAL A SUCCESS DESPITE THE RAIN |
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The rain recently forced the Terrace Elementary School Carnival inside, but it did not dampen the community's enthusiasm at the event. The 2nd annual event included plenty of food, games and a live band. The nearly 500 attendees enjoyed nachos and hotdogs, a bounce house, obstacle course and balloon animals. There were also plenty of games, including dart throw, putt putt, lucky key pull, mock jail and fishing booth.
"Our Carnival helps bring our entire community together for a fun Saturday of activities that ultimately support our school," said Stefanie Santiago, Carnival chairperson and PTA treasurer. "It's a great way for our Terrace families to enjoy spending time together."
The Carnival raised nearly $3,000 for the school's PTA. Funds raised from the event directly benefit the school by funding a variety of PTA activities, including buses for school field trips and teacher appreciation activities.
"Our PTA is focused on raising money to support our students and teachers, who have earned an exemplary ranking for the last three years," said Barrett Ray, PTA president. "Our Carnival is a fun event where our community comes together to raise money to fund important activities that support our outstanding school." >Top |
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Students at each high school are regularly accomplishing amazing and interesting achievements. Below are recent highlights.
Berkner High School
Junior Susan Harling has been selected to participate in the National Young Leaders Conference, a unique leadership development conference in Washington, D.C. During the six-day program, the NYLC will provide student scholars with the opportunity to interact with a variety of personnel who operate within the three branches of government, the news media and the international community. Susan will be able to meet with elected officials, members of the national press corps, and take part in a series of issue-based leadership simulations. |
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| Berkner Idol Christopher Holliness. |
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"Berkner Idol" was recently completed, with students demonstrating their talents on stage to see who could outlast the competition and emerge victorious. Congratulations to 2010 Berkner Idol winner Christopher Holliness, and first and second runners up Matthew McLaughlin and Cheryl Su. |
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Lake Highlands High School
LHHS Peer Helpers are stepping up to help victims of the drug-related violence in Juarez, Mexico. Unemployment has increased dramatically and most shops have closed, causing many residents to be unable to find or afford food. The Peer Helpers are collecting bags of dried red or pinto beans and dried rice for the people of Juarez through October 21. Members of the community wishing to help can drop off bags of dried beans or rice at Lake Highlands High School.
Pearce High School
Junior Adam Bull, the defending UIL 4A state champion in the 200 yard IM, has been named a USA Swimming Scholastic All American. This honor reflects Adam's excellence in his sport and the classroom. The Scholastic All-America Team is made up of high school student-athletes who have a grade point average of 3.5 or higher and who have achieved the required time standard in a single event. In his first year of eligibility, Adam was named to the team, having met the academic standard and posted qualifying times in three events. >Top |
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Dates: October 16 from 9 a.m. – 5 p.m. - October 17 from 11 a.m. – 5 p.m.
Location: Forest Meadow Junior High (Corner of Whitehurst and Abrams, just south of LBJ Freeway)
Market in the Meadow is a Holiday Gift Sale presenting over 180 booths with unique gifts and specialty merchandise from a variety of vendors. All proceeds from Market in the Meadow benefit the Forest Meadow Junior High PTA. We hope you will join us for a fabulous shopping experience this fall!
In addition to great shopping, Market in the Meadow offers the Charger Cafe, featuring delicious BBQ sandwiches, Chick-fil-A sandwiches, pizza, nachos, chips and drinks. Stop by the Bake Shoppe early to purchase baked goods prepared by volunteers - they go quickly! Entertainment is provided throughout the day by the bands, choirs, cheerleaders, drill teams, and dance teams of our local junior highs and high schools.
Come out for a great family experience and support FMJH. >Top |
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This year's RISD Band Showcase will be held on Monday, October 25 at 7 p.m. at Eagle-Mustang Stadium. Admission is free. Come out and enjoy outstanding family entertainment. Click here to download the flyer. >Top |
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LHE's Veterans Day Celebration |
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RECYCLE YOUR ELECTRONIC & HOUSEHOLD WASTE AT LHE |
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The City of Dallas is hosting another quarterly Recycling Roundup at Lake Highlands Elementary on Saturday, October 23 from 10 a.m. - 2 p.m.! They will be taking electronic items (E-Waste), documents to be shredded, donated household items, scrap metal, tires, batteries, light bulbs, and more!
After dropping off your items, stay to enjoy the hot dogs and other goodies to raise money for LHE student activities, browse LHE Spirit Store items, learn about bicycle safety info from the Dallas Police Department and play in the bounce house/slide for the kids!
Accepted Items Include:
- Electronic items (E-Waste) such as televisions, Video games, Cell phones, Computers, Calculators, and Printers
- Documents to be shredded on-site- 3 BOX LIMIT
- Donated Items: toys, clothing, books, small appliances, housewares, dishes and glassware, sports equipment
- Scrap metal: large parts, A/C units, large appliances (without Freon), ceiling fans
- Paper, Plastics (#1-7), Cans, Glass
- Inkjet Cartridges (no toner/laser cartridges, tubes or bottles)
- Tires (no limit)
- Auto and household batteries
- Fluorescent and incandescent light bulbs
- Used cooking oil
- NEW!!- Styrofoam, bubble and shrink wrap, plastic bags and packaging (without food residue)
- SORRY, NO FURNITURE, CHEMICALS, PAINT, BUILDING SUPPLIES or MATTRESSES
- Please visit lhepta.com for more information. >Top
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Run "The Spirit Run" and be thoroughly entertained every step of the race! Four High Schools will compete for bragging rights and a coveted traveling Spirit Trophy based on your end of race votes for the most spirited High School.
Each High School will be assigned one of four water stops and have their Drum Lines, Jazz bands, and others entertain you and cheer you to the finish!
This year's Spirit Run will be held on Sat., Nov. 13 at 8:30 a.m. in Galatyn Park (George Bush Turnpike & Central Expressway). Registration is now open. You can register for $25 through Oct. 4, and after Oct. 4, the registration fee is $30. Registration is $35 on Race Day.
Click here for more event details. >Top |
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Fine Arts
Marching Band, Saturday, October 9
Lake Highlands High School Marching Band to Carrollton Tournament of Champions Marching Contest @ Standridge Stadium in Carrollton. Admission fee; all day event. For information visit www.lakehighlandsbands.org.
Pearce High School Marching Band to DeSoto Classic Marching Competition @ DeSoto High School. Admission fee; all day event. For information visit www.pearceband.org.
Richardson High School Marching Band to Little Elm Marching Contest @ Little Elm Athletic Complex. Admission fee; all day event. For information visit www.richardsonband.org.
High School Sports
Volleyball, Friday, October 8
J. J. Pearce High School vs. Wylie East High School @ Wylie East High School, 5:30 p.m.
Richardson High School vs. Samuell High School @ Richardson High School, 6:30 p.m.
Lake Highlands High School vs. Sunset High School @ Davis Field House, 5:30 p.m.
Berkner High School vs. W. T. White High School @ Berkner High School, 6:30 p.m.
Football, Friday, October 8
Berkner High School Homecoming vs. W. T. White High School @ Ram/Wildcat Stadium, 7:30 p.m.
J. J. Pearce High School vs. Wylie East High School @ Pirate Stadium, 7:30 p.m.
Lake Highlands High School vs. Sunset High School @ Kincaide Stadium, 7:30 p.m.
For weekly scheduled events, please click here. [Every attempt is made to include all activities occurring over the weekend. Send information about activities to RISD@risd.org.] >Top |
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SCHOOL TIMES NOW! ARCHIVE |
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Did you miss an issue of School Times Now!? Click here to view the archives. >Top |
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