May 2024

RCPS Division Newsletter

A Look Back at the Month in Pictures

On May 24th, Principal Carlos Seward welcomed students, families, faculty, and community to the RCHS Class of 2024 Graduation. The event featured encouraging speeches from Mr. Wes Mills, School Board Chairman, and Dr. Shannon Grimsley, RCPS Superintendent. Additionally, Salutatorian Abigail Atkins and Valedictorian Isaac Scheulen reflected on the students' time together and the promising futures that await all. Before the diploma presentation, Ms. Dani Pond recognized students for scholarships, certifications, club involvement, academic achievement, and more! After the ceremony, proud family members and friends joined their graduates outdoors for pictures, hugs, and words of congratulations.

Photos by Holly Jenkins

Families and Graduates- All pictures (and many, many more) are available for downloading at https://www.rappahannockschools.us/happenings. Be sure to check out all THREE folders, which feature candid photos taken behind the scenes, throughout the ceremony, and during the awarding of diplomas. Join us in congratulating the Class of 2024, the newest Rappahannock County High School graduates!

On the last day of school, Dr. Grimsley and Dr. Johnson waved to the students as they departed for summer break on May 23rd. Several kids excitedly waved goodbye, while one shared a heart symbol. We wish everyone a fantastic summer!

Photo by Holly Jenkins

RCHS students wrapped up the school year with the annual PRIDE (Positive Relationships Inspire a Drive for Excellence) Bash on May 23rd. Everyone enjoyed a morning full of games, sports, ice cream, and socializing before the start of summer break! Thank you to Ms. Dani Pond for organizing such a fantastic end-of-year celebration.

Photo by Holly Jenkins

Congratulations to our newest RCES graduates! During the 7th Grade Graduation on May 23rd, the students were celebrated for their remarkable achievements at the elementary school. In August, they will embark on the next chapter of their academic journey as high school students.

Photo by Holly Jenkins

The highly anticipated Spring Staff Farmer’s Market was held on May 22nd at RCHS. Excited RCPS staff arrived with big smiles as they were treated to $40 worth of tickets to shop among the local vendors: Bean Hollow Grassfed, Fair Winds Farms, Gardens of Khmet, Jackalope Ridge Bakehouse and Microfarm, Roger Jenkins' Fruit Stand, Rucker Farm, and The Farm at Sunnyside. Everyone enjoyed shopping among the fresh produce, meat, bread, seasoned salts, and plants and engaging in conversations with the farmers. Thanks to Commit to Be Fit and a staff wellness grant for promoting staff health and happiness through this wonderful event.

Photos by Holly Jenkins

Congratulations to the Class of 2028 for successfully completing their first year in high school!! The 8th graders and their peer mentors enjoyed a picnic at the park complete with all you can eat pizza, Kona Ice, and fun!!

Photo by Dani Pond

On May 22nd, Rappahannock County Elementary School hosted its inaugural Panther Fest, where students had a blast participating in a variety of exciting activities, such as visiting a petting zoo, face painting, a fire hose water station, coloring, jewelry making, and more! The children had an opportunity to explore various vehicles up close, including a race car and a helicopter that landed in the softball field in front of the excited kids. Additionally, the students enjoyed bouncing and playing on the giant inflatables, generously sponsored by the Rappahannock County Sheriff’s Office. The event also included K-9 demonstrations and local rescue departments showcasing the jaws of life to dismantle a car. Plus, sweet treats, such as ice cream and cotton candy, were enjoyed by all. Panther Fest, organized by Ms. Bethany Bostic and Ms. Katherine Todd, was a lively, enriching event that will be long remembered by the students. We want to thank all the community organizations that came together for a day of fun and learning! These fantastic organizations include Rappahannock County Sheriff’s Office, Sperryville Volunteer Fire Department, Virginia State Police, VDOT, Family Futures, Pepsi-Cola, Appleton Campbell, Windy Oaks Farm, Fauquier County Sheriffs Office, Washington Volunteer Fire Department, Earth & Turf, The Ice Cream Stand, Code Blue, Rappahannock FFA, Air Care, P & S Towing, Department of Wildlife Resources, Mental Health Innovators Team, Rappahannock Social Services, Rappahannock Electric Cooperative, Flint Hill Fire Volunteer Fire Department, Rappahannock School Board Office- Child Find, Wally’s Automotive, and RCHS NHS students. Additionally, we would like to thank our event organizers, Ms. Bostic and Ms. Todd, and the RCPS staff and volunteers who contributed to the event’s success.

Photos by Holly Jenkins

RCES students participated in a lively Field Day on May 21st! Classes rotated to multiple stations, which included team-building relays, games, and many water-related activities. Thank you to Ms. Heather Pitts for all your hard work organizing the fantastic event and our faculty, staff, volunteers, and NHS high school students for creating a safe, fun-filled day in the sun.

Photos by Holly Jenkins

During the RCHS Academic Award Ceremony on Tuesday, May 21st, students were recognized by the faculty for their hard work and outstanding achievement during the school year.

Photo by Dr. Shannon Grimsley

RCES 3rd Graders are published authors! Recently 3rd Graders in Mrs. Hummill's classes worked on writing themed "If I Were President" which they published into a book. After going through the writing process and a quick competition for the cover art they sent their work off and all became published authors. On May 20th the event they have all been waiting for was here for their big book reveal. Thanks to a grant by Headwaters, the Rappahannock County Public Education Foundation, Inc. every student was able to receive a copy of their book with their writing in it.

Photos by Jordan Hummill and Christen Snyder

On May 20th, fifty-eight RCPS students from 7th to 12th grade received training at Graves Mountain Lodge to become camp counselors or counselors-in-training for the new SPARK day camp (Summer Program for Adventure, Recreation, and Knowledge). This day camp is being offered in partnership with RCPS, CCLC, Headwaters, and the NOVA 4-H Educational Center. During the training, the future camp counselors reviewed their roles and expectations, discussed various camp scenarios, went over the camp schedule, and toured the facility. The day concluded with a delicious lunch prepared by the Graves Mountain Lodge staff. We are eagerly anticipating the start of camp on June 3rd!

Photo by Jenny Kapsa

The annual sports awards ceremony was held on May 20th inside the Panther Den at RCHS! RCPS student-athletes from fall, winter, and spring sports were recognized and honored for their athletic achievements. A special thank you to all of the athletes, coaches, sponsors, parents, police, EMT, volunteers, fans and families who make Rappahannock County a special place to compete!

Photo by Tim Stockdale

Seventh-grade students enjoyed all sorts of fun activities during the 7th-grade picnic on May 20th. From playing sports and games to bouncing on giant inflatables, everyone had a great time celebrating a successful school year.

Photo by Holly Jenkins

The kindergarteners took to the stage to perform a few toe-tapping melodies for an audience of proud families during the Kindergarten Awards on May 20th. The ceremony continued with awards to recognize the students' outstanding achievements throughout the school year.

Photo by Holly Jenkins

Introducing Panther Palate! Sixth and seventh-grade farm-to-table classes, with guidance from Chef Volmrich, were given a project to create a tasty recipe that incorporated several of the herbs that the students had grown this spring. Ultimately, the students selected a ranch-based dip incorporating dill, thyme, and basil. After making their dip from the freshly harvested herbs, the 6th class served it with cucumbers to younger grade levels to see if this should be a menu item next school year. The results are in, and the younger students would like it to be served in the fall! Stay tuned! You will see even more Panther Palate activities when school is back in session.

Photo by Holly Jenkins

Let's give a round of applause for our newest graduates! On May 20th, our PreK students, dressed in caps and gowns, delighted the audience with a selection of lively songs before receiving their diplomas.

Photo by Holly Jenkins

Graduating seniors enjoyed a fantastic evening of celebration during the Wizard of Oz-themed senior banquet on Sunday, May 19th. An annual tradition that began in 1986, the evening started with the Class of 2024 mingling over fruit hors d’oeuvres before following the yellow brick road to the commons area, which had been transformed into a wizardry wonderland by their hardworking parents. The seniors dined on a buffet of sliders, corn on the cob, chicken tenders, fries, and macaroni and cheese, prepared by Chef Streu and culinary students. The attendees could select endless sweets from a colorful array of baked goods and candies for dessert. Following the dinner, students opened their time capsules, resulting in joyous laughter and happy smiles as they browsed through the items they had sealed away five years earlier. The trip down memory lane continued in the auditorium with the senior slideshow and videos from a third-grade project, courtesy of Ms. Crystal Smith. Laughter filled the room as they watched their eight-year-old selves and classmates on film. Lastly, attendees enjoyed viewing The Wizard of Oz on the big screen. Thank you to everyone that made this a memorable event for the students. “There is no place like home!”

Photo by Holly Jenkins

At the Rappahannock County High School Scholarship Awards Ceremony on May 17th, overjoyed seniors displayed genuine thanks and appreciation for the community. One by one, the recipients learned of the financial support they would receive for their post-graduate aspirations. For some, this support opened doors to life-changing opportunities. In total, the soon-to-be graduates were awarded an impressive $135,512 in scholarships for their continued education. Following the ceremony, the students had a chance to meet and express their gratitude to the donors who generously contributed to their future endeavors. Thank you to all the donors for helping our seniors pursue their dreams! Your generosity and support truly make a difference. Additionally, we would like to thank Ms. Angie Jenkins, the RCHS Profile of a Graduate (POG) Team, and Headwaters, the Rappahannock County Public Education Foundation, Inc. for organizing the scholarships and the many people who played a role in the event's success.

Photo by Holly Jenkins

Fourth-grade students celebrated a successful school year with awards, prize drawings, and fun outdoor activities, including inflatable bounce houses, at the 4th-grade picnic on May 17th.

Photo by Holly Jenkins

On Thursday, May 16th, RCES 6th grade students enjoyed participating in the annual Watershed Education Field Day event. Held at the Sperryville Schoolhouse, the students had a fun day of hands-on learning. During the day, the students collected and identified macroinvertebrates, tested water for various properties, identified and chased amphibians, and learned about the Sperryville Water Treatment plant and the efforts made by local organizations to keep our rivers healthy and clean. Thank you to Ms. Rachel Bynum and Ms. Beth Gall for organizing this event and to the Rappahannock League for Environmental Protection Education Committee for sponsoring this opportunity for the students. Additionally, we would like to thank volunteers from the Old Rag Chapter of the Virginia Master Naturalists, Friends of the Rappahannock, Smithsonian Conservation Biology Institute, and SperryFest.

Photo by Rachel Bynum

On May 16th, fourth graders visited Peak View Gardens in Flint Hill to kick start seeds for a new pumpkin patch project—the Panther Pumpkin Patch. Made possible by a generous grant from the William and Mary Greve Foundation, and led by the Profile of a Graduate Team along with Brian and Shauna Volmrich, owners of Peak View Gardens, this initiative is off to an exciting start. During their visit, students planted pumpkin seeds, crafted self-watering planters, and sampled various pumpkin-inspired treats. In July, SPARK campers and counselors will join in to transplant the seedlings into a larger field at the gardens. Upon their return to RCES as fifth graders in the fall, students will engage in financial literacy activities, creating a budget and setting profit goals for selling pumpkins to the Rappahannock community. So mark your calendars—come October, you'll have the chance to support our Panther Pumpkin Patch!

Photo by Erin Sherry

Mr. Timothy Stockdale’s DE World History II students visited the National Museum of the Marine Corps in Quantico on May 16th. Students were able to learn about the history of the Marine Corps- from the halls of Montezuma to the shores of Tripoli! The Corps dates back to 1775 when they were created by the Second Continental Congress in Philadelphia. The students were even able to view the actual American flag that was raised on Mount Suribachi on the Japanese island of Iwo Jima in 1945!

Photo by Tim Stockdale

During the regularly scheduled meeting on May 14th, the School Board recognized and celebrated the careers of three retiring staff members and their outstanding impact on students’ success over the past three decades. Chuck and Linda Way, teachers at RCES, were honored for their 30 years in education and the significant impact they had on many young minds throughout the years. Barbara Gore, a bus driver with 35 years of service, was also praised for her commitment to student safety over the years and the many miles she drove during her time behind the wheel. Each retiree was given a signed resolution to signify great appreciation for their dedication to education. Pictured: Chuck and Linda Way, pictured with the Board and Dr. Grimsley, displayed their framed resolutions. While Barbara Gore was not in attendance, she was also honored for her service.

Photo by Holly Jenkins

On May 13th, the RCES 6th and 7th grade bands, under the direction of Mr. Dorell Fullard, delighted the audience with a lively selection of melodies. It was a fantastic concert performance to end the school year!

Photo by Holly Jenkins

RCHS seniors had a blast celebrating Decision Day on Friday, May 10th. The fun festivities began with delicious ice cream from Carousel Frozen Treats and a chance to socialize with classmates. Everyone gathered and shared laughs during a team-building parachute game, a throwback to elementary school gym class, followed by a competitive round of musical chairs. The culminating activity was the raffle drawing, where each student won exciting prizes such as TVs, laptops, electronics, gift cards, and swag bags. We would like to thank all the generous prize donors, as well as Ms. Kylee Wiggins and the POG Team, for making this event so memorable for the Class of 2024.

Photo by Holly Jenkins

In celebration of teacher appreciation week, RCHS teachers were treated to a yummy SCA diner-themed luncheon prepared by the culinary students on May 10th. Ice cream, served by Carousel, was the perfect finale for the delicious meal.

Photo by Holly Jenkins

The Rappahannock PTO showered RCPS teachers with lots goodies, prizes, and treats throughout teacher appreciation week on May 6th- 10th. Thank you to the PTO for going above and beyond to make the week even more special!

Photos by Victoria Cooper

On May 9th, soon-to-be graduates received high-fives and hugs as they walked through the elementary school during the Senior Parade. For many, it was a literal "walk down memory lane" as they were congratulated by their former teachers in the very hallways where they first began their educational journeys.

Photo by Holly Jenkins

On May 8th, RCES students enjoyed a fun, educational Animal Adventure presented by Blue Ridge Wildlife Center. The students watched in awe and amazement as each rescued animal was introduced to the attentive crowd. The special guests shared fun facts about each animal, which included a skunk, an opossum, and two box turtles named Shelly and Quasi. This engaging and informative wildlife presentation was made possible by a generous donor and organized by the Rappahannock PTO as a school-wide reward for achieving the Fun Run goal of $25,000. It was an unforgettable experience that the students will remember for many years.

Photo by Holly Jenkins

The annual Baccalaureate was held on May 5th to honor graduating students of the RCHS Class of 2024. The candlelight ceremony included music, song, and uplifting remarks.

Photo by Tim Stockdale

The RCHS Music Department, under the direction of Ms. Kalia Page, delivered a remarkable spring concert on April 30th. The theme of the night, "We Are Rappahannock," showcased intricate musical performances that seamlessly integrated over 75 musical guests from the Rapp community. These guests joined students on stage, creating a magical show. The two-hour event included performances from A Cappella, Choir, Percussion Ensemble, TRI-M (a student-led musical club), Jazz Band, Concert Band, and special senior performances by Payton Cillo (flute), Elijah Lowe (guitar), and Rhys Milam (vibraphone).

Photo by Holly Jenkins

Staff Recognitions

RCPS staff gathered on May 23rd for the End Of Year Celebration. Dr. Grimsley set a joyful tone by reminiscing about the year while engaging the attendees with a hilarious Mad Lib-style activity. The event included acknowledgments, awards, and a delicious meal from the Ole Country Store.

YEARS OF SERVICE- presented by Dr. Carol Johnson and Dr. Shannon Grimsley

10 Years of Service: Stacey Whitt, Amy Grady, Janet Huff, Sarah Moore, Julie Banks, Chris King, and Heather Cubbage

15 Years of Service- Samantha Taubenberger

20 Years of Service- Margie Southard

25 Years of Service- Robert Glasker

30 Years of Service- Chuck Way and Linda Way

RECOGNITION OF RETIREES- presented by Dr. Carol Johnson and Dr. Shannon Grimsley

Chuck Way- 30 Years of Service

Linda Way- 30 Years of Service

Barbara Gore- 35 Years of Service

DR. BOB CHAPPELL ABOVE AND BEYOND AWARDS- presented by Dr. Carol Johnson and Dr. Shannon Grimsley

Volunteer- Ashley Clark

Support Staff- Evelyn Wever

Licensed Employees- Dani Pond

TEACHER OF THE YEAR RECOGNITION- presented by Dr. Carol Johnson and Dr. Shannon Grimsley Elaine McCabe- RCES Teacher of the Year

Scott Stephens- RCHS Teacher of the Year and RCPS Teacher of the Year

RECOGNITION OF LIZ TOLE AWARDEE- presented by Dr. Tole earlier in the day Vernette Rogers

RECOGNITION OF SUPERINTENDENT'S PHYSICAL ACTIVITY AWARDS- presented by Commit to Be Fit Team

12 Week Challenge Awards (Fall 2023)

Platinum- Matt Hummill, Kreighton Long, Kayla Robey, and Amy Grady Gold- John Wiese and Jenny Kapsa

Silver- Christy Taylor

Bronze- Kelly Estes

Honorable Mention- Katherine Todd, Kimberly Jones, Dr. Shannon Grimsley, Elaine McCabe, and Michele Fincham

8 Week Challenge Awards (Spring 2024)

Platinum- Scott Stephens, Amy Grady, Brian Volmrich, Kayla Robey, Heather Pitts, Kalia Page, Michele Fincham, Kreighton Long, and Matt Hummill

Gold- Robbie Fincham and Alivia Tuel

Silver- Katherine Todd, Cecilia Lopiano, and Jordan Hummill

Bronze- Barbara MacDonald, Missy Moon, and Temple Murray

Iron- Sandra Burke, Tiffany Montague, Dr. Shannon Grimsley, Carlos Seward, and Dr. Robin Bolt

Announcements & Reminders

POP Bucks is Back!

Through a PATH Foundation grant, Commit to Be Fit is thrilled to continue the POP (Power of Produce) Bucks program to provide access to local food and support our local 2024 Farmers Market season. EVERY RCPS student has the opportunity to redeem a POP Bucks Market Bag filled with local produce, protein, and bread. Plus, each bag includes TWO $5 tokens to redeem at participating market vendors. SIGN-UP IS REQUIRED and is limited to 25 students per week (first come, first serve). To sign up, visit https://docs.google.com/forms/d/e/1FAIpQLSc41bZx2QEpJ_6ysM3r8H2FYRZZ7O6J2NIlkzximyGl7NIrIQ/viewform or on our website at https://www.rappc2bf.com/pop-bucks

Behind the Wheel

Behind the Wheel is available all summer long! See the flyer for more details.

To sign up for Behind the Wheel, visit

https://docs.google.com/forms/d/e/1FAIpQLSccnKHX9tDOU1oY45Az8kkTVnkvWGYTEU4sKqIyz0RG02rxwg/viewform

RCPS Students--For a limited time, our awesome instructors are offering FREE private driving lessons, available to RCPS students only, who need help completing the 45-hour driving log.

To sign up for private driving lessons to meet the required hours, visit

https://docs.google.com/forms/d/e/1FAIpQLSccnKHX9tDOU1oY45Az8kkTVnkvWGYTEU4sKqIyz0RG02rxwg/viewform

For more information, please contact Ms. Fox at efox@rappahannockschools.us.