The Riverwalk Roar

Happy Sunday Pride,

I hope everyone had a wonderful weekend. Before I dive into this week’s newsletter, will you do me a quick favor and click this link (just so I know you’re still with me and reading these intros)?

With the excitement of last month’s Olympics still fresh, I recently finished reading Katie Ledecky’s book, Just Add Water. It chronicles her amazing journey as a 19-time Olympic medalist and a 14-time world record setter—many of which involved breaking her own records! In her book, Katie emphasizes how goal setting and visualization were critical to her success.

It’s important to help our students understand the value of these two powerful tools—goal setting and visualization—because they can make a real difference in both academics and life. Setting clear goals and visualizing success help students stay focused, motivated, and ready to overcome challenges.

Two excellent examples of this come from the world of swimming: Michael Phelps and Katie Ledecky. These athletes didn’t just rely on talent—they actively used goal setting and visualization to propel them to greatness.

Michael Phelps, the most decorated Olympian in history, didn’t achieve his success by accident. From a young age, Phelps worked with his coach to set specific goals—right down to the times he wanted to hit in each event. Beyond writing down goals, Phelps made visualization part of his daily routine. Every night before bed, he mentally rehearsed his races, picturing each stroke and visualizing his ideal outcomes. This mental preparation helped him stay confident and focused, no matter the challenges.

Katie Ledecky also uses goal setting and visualization to stay at the top of her sport. Her goals are always ambitious, but she breaks them down into manageable steps, allowing her to focus on what she can control. Like Phelps, Ledecky mentally prepares by visualizing each stage of her races, helping her feel calm and confident when it matters most.

The strategies Phelps and Ledecky use aren’t just for athletes—they can apply to anyone. Setting goals helps us define what we want, while visualization prepares us mentally to achieve it. Whether a student is working to improve their grades, excel in a sport, or master a new skill, these techniques can help them succeed.

At Riverwalk Academy, we encourage all students to See It. Believe It. Achieve It.

In Pride and Purpose,
~Dr. Compton

Congratulations to our first 2024-2025 Staff Members of the Month!

We love to recognize and honor the staff at Riverwalk Academy who stand out for their dedication and excellence. These staff members were nominated not just by peers but also by students and parents/guardians. These individuals keep a positive attitude and are always willing to lend a hand to help our staff and students. These staff members put students first, and we are so thankful for the impact they make each day on our campus and our community They exemplify a commitment to our school culture and community through the way they treat those around them.

Health-related absences are a top reason students miss school, yet sometimes they can be avoided. Getting students and families partnered with health providers keep students healthy and in school!

#BePresentBePowerful

Monday: 9/16/24

• No events scheduled

Tuesday: 9/17/24

• Cross Country @ York Prep 5:00pm
• Volleyball @ Lewisville 5:30pm
• Swim @ Catawba Ridge (Fort Mill Aquatic Center) 6:00pm
  
• Board Meeting 6:30 pm
  

• No events scheduled

Thursday: 9/19/24

• Kona Ice (main campus) (order by the 17th by clicking here)
• Volleyball @ UR Academy (Middle School) 4:30pm
• Cross Country at York 5:00pm
• Swim @ Rock Hill (Rock Hill Aquatic Center) 6:00pm
  
• Volleyball @ Governor's School 6:00pm
  

• No events scheduled

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• PTO's August Newsletter