April 2025

Prom Court 2025- See our Read All About It section to learn more about this magical evening.

We're excited to announce the latest inductees into our Future Educators Academy (FEA) at RCHS! FEA is a fantastic college partnership lab school designed to help rising juniors who dream of becoming elementary and special education teachers. After completing their two-year associate degree at Germanna Community College, our FEA students can seamlessly transfer to one of our partner institutions. This means they can earn their bachelor’s degree and teaching license just two years after graduating from high school—what an amazing journey ahead! Congratulations to these future superheroes!
Photo by Dani Pond

Mrs. Deal's 1st graders created bird nests using a variety of materials in their STEAM exploratory. The class discussed how certain birds build their nests high off the ground to protect their babies from predators.

Photo by Bethany Cubbage

The transportation and school board office staff gathered at the bus shop to celebrate Jerry Goebel and his 13 years of dedicated service with a retirement luncheon earlier this month. Everyone enjoyed a delicious meal and extended their best wishes for his future endeavors.

During his time at Rappahannock County Public Schools, Jerry consistently showed a strong dedication to the safety and well-being of the students as a bus driver. Beyond his role as a driver, Jerry was a key mentor and trainer for new bus drivers, helping to cultivate a team of skilled professionals. He will be greatly missed!

Photo by Holly Jenkins

Recently, 11 seniors planning to attend Laurel Ridge Community College after graduation visited the Fauquier campus for the Freshman Focus field trip. The students met with advisors based on their intended areas of study and toured the campus.
Photos by Michelle Barrett

During a small group activity, Ms. Jenkins' students had fun practicing writing letters and word building with shaving cream.

Photos by Ryan Williams

During April's regularly scheduled board meeting, Ms. Jodi Place, RCHS Assistant Principal and Career and Technical Education (CTE) Coordinator, provided an update on the 2025-2026 CTE Local Plan. She presented the new CTE-specific program of studies, highlighting fresh opportunities for students through community partnerships and program expansions.

Ms. Place shared that RCHS currently offers 44 CTE courses, in addition to the Future Educators Academy (LRCC) and the Trades Academy (LRCC). To view all the courses in the new CTE Program of Studies, visit https://docs.google.com/document/d/1_q42JfCqMOnKUt6JNtHeQQeNI4KFcpBvYZZ1jybq6AA/edit?tab=t.0 She emphasized that there have been no reductions to courses or programs—only new additions. Additionally, she shared results of an RCHS student survey which revealed that the most requested courses for the upcoming year include Welding, Small Animal Care, Introduction to Culinary, Veterinary Science 1, and Introduction to Health and Medical Science.

The Board also heard from Agriculture Academy students (pictured), who discussed the valuable learning experiences and benefits the academy has provided. Ms. Place concluded the presentation by showcasing the new CTE webpage, which is regularly updated with news and upcoming events. To view, visit https://sites.google.com/rappahannockschools.us/rcps-cte/home

Photo by Holly Jenkins

After winning the PTO Door Decorating Contest, Ms. Deal's class enjoyed a well-earned pizza party yesterday! Their creative door display featured Panther paws, each uniquely designed by a student with a word that captured what Rappahannock means to them.
Photo by Jennifer Deal

This month's Trade of the Month presentation featured Mr. Corey Pitts, a general contractor with Holder Construction. Mr. Pitts shared his personal journey and inspired students by discussing the numerous benefits of pursuing a career in the trades. He works closely with professionals from various trades daily, offering valuable insights into the industry. Mr. Pitts will also represent Holder Construction at the RCHS Career Expo on April 24. Please join us in thanking Mr. Pitts for generously sharing his time and expertise with our high school students.
Photo by Jenny Kapsa

Ms. Phillips' 4th block biology students dissected squids! Through careful examination, they located the squid's siphon used for propulsion and all three of its hearts! Students Emily, Brooklyn, and Ava were especially dedicated to the assignment, working diligently to identify their squid's components, including its "pen" and beak, the only two actual hard material parts of its anatomy. Students have expressed continued enthusiasm for Ms. Phillips' classes and have enjoyed the hands-on learning opportunities.
Photo by Chris Ubben

RCES students participated in the highly-anticipated 7th Grade Career Fair on April 10th. Seventh-grade students displayed poster boards with information about their chosen careers, such as the career cluster, required skills, job duties, salary, and why the student had selected that career. Students in grades K-6th had an opportunity to attend the fair during their exploratory blocks. All classes were given a grade-level specific “career passport” to complete as they toured the booths. The passports encouraged students to ask questions and think about the careers that sparked their interest.
Photo by Holly Jenkins

On April 17th, seventh grade students visited the high school for an orientation. Following an overview of 8th-grade coursework and the 8th Grade Academy, the 7th graders were split into small groups took tours, led by high school students. Stops included classrooms, the library, the gym, and more. The event ended with a quick snack and excitement for what’s ahead!

Photo by Holly Jenkins

RCPS hosted a Neurodiversity/Autism Awareness and Acceptance Walk at the RCES walking path on April 24th. Headwaters After School Enrichment Program attendees joined the fun by flying kites they had made specifically for the event. Each kite was personally decorated by the students the previous day, and when flown together, the kites represented uniqueness and diversity. Thank you to Headwaters, the Rappahannock County Public Education Foundation, Inc. and all staff and participants who joined us for this special event.
Photos by Holly Jenkins

On April 29th, our soon-to-be RCHS graduates received high-fives and cheers as they participated in the Senior Parade through the elementary school. For many, it was a true "walk down memory lane," receiving congratulations from former teachers in the same hallways where their educational journey began.

Photo by Holly Jenkins

On April 30th, RCES students enjoyed an engaging and educational Earth Day assembly, made possible by the generosity of the Rappahannock League for Environmental Protection (RLEP). Presented by AJ Kohn of Mobile Ed, the event featured the impressive Earth Dome. The towering 19-foot-tall inflatable globe offered students a large-scale view of our planet's continents and geographical features. Upon seeing the dome, the students' expressions of awe and amazement were truly priceless! Several grade levels even had the opportunity to step inside for a unique 360-degree experience. Throughout the assembly, Mr. Kohn shared enthusiasm, expertise, and grade-appropriate facts about the planet. We want to share a heartfelt thank you to RLEP for providing this exciting educational program for the students.

Photos by Holly Jenkins

On April 30th, the Class of 2025 had fun with tie-dye during the RCHS Senior Week!! Seniors were busy preparing Decision Day t-shirts for their big post-secondary reveal party. The excitement is building as they approach graduation day!!
Photo courtesy of Kylee Wiggins and Dani Pond

April 17th was a day of celebration at RCHS, as 19 seniors were honored during the annual Scholarship Ceremony! The recognized students were awarded scholarships from more than 30 generous organizations and donors, with several scholarships having multiple recipients. The total amount awarded during the event was an impressive $117,529! Additional scholarships will be awarded in the coming weeks, and the final total will be announced during graduation at the end of May.

Read more about it HERE.

The Profile of a Graduate team hosted a Career Expo for juniors and seniors on April 24th. Twenty-three businesses participated in this event and offered a variety of jobs and career opportunities for the students.

Read more about it HERE.

RCHS juniors and seniors witnessed a powerful and emotional car crash simulation and rescue scenario on April 25th. Organized by Kathryn Waters, in collaboration with Rappahannock County Fire and Rescue and the Rappahannock County Sheriff’s Office, the life-like scene was held the day before prom to emphasize the dangers of drunk driving. Multiple Volunteer Fire and Rescue agencies and the Rappahannock County Sheriff’s Office made this a realistic and eye-opening experience.

Read more about it HERE.

Rappahannock County High School students gathered at the stunning High Meadow Manor in Flint Hill for an unforgettable Junior and Senior Prom on April 26th. Students arrived at the exquisite property wearing formal attire and awestruck, excited expressions. An immense sense of gratitude was evident as they knew that this fairytale-themed event, which would forever be etched in their memories, was made possible by local community members' incredible support and generosity.

Read more about it HERE.

Please see the calendar above for all important dates. To view the printable PDF, CLICK HERE.

As a friendly calendar reminder, RCPS will be closed on May 26th due to the holiday. Additionally students will be released at noon on May 27, May 28, and May 29 (last day of school).

BEETLEJUICE BEETLEJUICE BEETLEJUICE! RCHS Drama Department is excited to present Beetlejuice Jr. on May 2nd-4th. Based on the blockbuster motion picture turned Broadway musical, Beetlejuice JR. tells the story of a strange and unusual teenager named Lydia Deetz, who is grieving the loss of her mother and obsessed with death. Luckily for Lydia, she and her father move to a new house haunted by a recently deceased couple and Beetlejuice, a delightful demon with a real zest for life. When Lydia calls on Beetlejuice to scare away anyone with a pulse, this double-crossing specter shows his true stripes, unleashing a (Nether)world of pandemonium.
Scan the QR code for tickets or visit https://rappchs.booktix.com/

Teacher Appreciation Week Starts Monday, May 5th. We will be celebrating our teachers and staff for throughout the week. Check out the RCES activities below.

Check out all the Teacher Appreciation Week activities for faculty and staff at RCHS (below). Students are invited to join the fun and dress up for spirit week.

Join us on May 8th at 6:30 pm for a fantastic evening of music featuring our remarkable student musicians from RCES and RCHS!

We are currently accepting PreK applications for SY 2025-2026. After completing the electronic registration (link below), please email the required documents (immunization records, income verification, and birth certificate) to Michelle Berta at mberta@rappahannockschools.us or drop them off at the school board office. A limited number of slots are available.

Click the button below to start the application.

The clinic is available to all students in grades PreK-12 with parental consent. The necessary paperwork can be found HERE. To schedule an appointment, please call the clinic at 540-793-1371. Ms. Prince begins scheduling appointments at 8 am for students and RCPS staff. If she is busy assisting another patient, please leave a message for her to return your call.

To sign up for Behind the Wheel, visit

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

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

Check out the upcoming events calendar, your one-stop place to view RCPS' community events and more! To view, CLICK HERE or visit our district website and click "Happenings and Highlights," now under the CALENDAR tab.

RCHS students will be selling student-grown flowers and vegetable plants at the Rappahannock Plant Sale on Saturday, May 3rd.

There is still limited availability to sign-up for Week 1: June -June 13th for older campers. All other weeks have been filled. Enrollment information and more can be found at www.RappNatureCamp.org. Student scholarships are available through the Headwaters Emily Hilscher Passion Award.

Summer Chorus and Drama is BACK! Students can enroll in either Chorus (mornings) or Drama (afternoons) or both. Enrollment in either program is $75, with a discounted rate of $125 for enrollment in both. Scholarships are available for those in need. There is space for 18 students in the drama program and unlimited space in the Chorus. To register, click here: http://www.raac.org/drama-chorus-registration/

Check out upcoming program and events at the Rappahannock County Library.

The Rappahannock County Library is offering a Summer Reading Program, which runs from June 7th until the first weekend of August. This program is for children, teens and adults. Participants can read books to earn prizes! Sign-up at the Rappahannock County Library.

This year, the Rappahannock County Library is partnering with the Blue Ridge Area Food Bank to provide shelf stable meal kits for families with children under 18 living at home. There is a limit of one box per child, per week. Parents do not need to bring children to the library to retrieve their box (it is an honor system) and the boxes include ingredients and instructions to prepare 10 meals; 5 breakfasts and 5 lunches. This program runs from June 7th until August 6th.

To view the list of helpful mental health and wellness resources for students and families, CLICK HERE.

The latest edition of Panther Power, the RCPS Health & Wellness Newsletter is now available! To view, click HERE.
Inside the April edition you will find the latest wellness-related happenings. featured article, wellness spotlight on Headwaters ASEP, a tasty smoothie recipe, wellness resources, and more!

Website: www.rappahannockschools.us
Facebook: www.facebook.com/rappahannockcountypublicschools
Instagram: www.instagram.com/_rcps_

Email: info@rappahannockschools.us

To view a helpful list of our communications channels, CLICK HERE.