ATHLETICS Highlight: Boys Varsity Basketball Wins at RNE

The Ridge View Blazers boys and girls basketball programs both picked up important region wins Friday night at Richland Northeast High School.

The Blazer boys are riding a three game winning streak after the 55-51 over the Cavaliers.  The boys are now 3-3 in region play with a 5-14 overall record.  After being down much of the game and down one heading into the 4th quarter the Blazers out scored RNE 22-17 in the 4th quarter to get the win.  

Blazer Boys Scoring:

Torry Robinson 13, Dextor Foster 11, Tony Washington 2, Malik McLane 2, Justine Alewine 14, Khalil Hopkins 11, Desaun Davis 2

Nigel Chaney 14 was the only RNE Caviler in double figures.

NEXT GAME:

Tuesday, February 4 HOME vs. #1 in AAAA Irmo.  Girls game starts at 6:00 PM with the boys game following at about 7:30 PM.

ACTIVITIES Bulletin: Blaze Defined to Compete Saturday

Blaze Defined, Ridge View's step team will be competing at the Royal Affair Step Competition at Columbia High School tomorrow, February 1, 2014. The show begins at 1 p.m. and admission is $6. Good luck Blaze Defined!

If you cannot make this weekend's competition, Blaze Defined will be stepping at the Step for Change Black History Month Step Competition at South Carolina State University on February 8th. Admission to this event is $5 and the show starts at 2:30 p.m.

If you have any questions about Blaze Defined, please e-mail Ms. Fennell at pfennell@richland2.org or Ms. Knox at aknox@richland2.org.

Picture of Blaze Defined from earlier competition.
Pictured (L to R): Otis Thompson, Jada Williams, Kethan Smith, Yasmine Barnes (captain), Jada Brown (co-captain) Jenai Brown, Keva Jones, and Otissha Thompson

Bell Schedule for Friday, January 31st

Here is the bell schedule for Friday, January 31st.

Early Bird: No classes!

1st Period:  10:40 - 11:25

2nd Period: 11:31 - 12:01

3rd Period:  12:07 - 12:37

4th Period:  12:43 - 1:13

LUNCH:     1:13 - 1:47

5th Period:  1:53 - 2:23

6th Period:  2:29 - 2:59

7th Period:  3:05 - 3:35

ATHLETICS Highlight: Softball Tryouts Set for February 3rd

Brooke Bedenbaugh

If you are interested in trying out for the Ridge View High School Softball team, tryouts will be held on Monday, February 3rd from 4-6 p.m. Interested student-athletes should submit their sports physical to the Athletic Department unless it is already on file. The team is coached by Head Coach Bruce Dingler (bdingler@richland2.org) and Assistant Coach Brooke Bedenbaugh (bbedenbaugh@richland2.org).  

ACTIVITIES Bulletin: JDRF Fundraiser Reminder

Ridge View High is proud to announce that it will once again be raising money for the Juvenile Diabetes Research Fund (JDRF). Any funds raised during our Cominghome Week activities including the Student-Faculty Basketball Game scheduled for Tuesday, February 4th will benefit the Palmetto Chapter of JDRF. Students can make donations to teachers or can drop it off there donation to the Annex. Community members can also make donations by dropping off their contribution to the Main Office. Checks are acceptable and should be made out to "JDRF."

For those of you who do not know much about juvenile diabetes, it is an autoimmune disease in which a person's pancreas stops producing insulin, a hormone that enables people to get energy from food. There is nothing you can do to prevent it, and nothing you can do to get ride of it. As many as three million Americans have it. Each year, more than 15,000 children and 15,000 adults in the U.S., approximately 80 people per day, are diagnosed with it.

We appreciate any support that you can give to this worthwhile cause.

ARTS Focus: Robinson's Photo on Display at Lewandowsky Gallery

Congratulations to Blazer student Josh Robinson. His photograph, Foon, NC, is on exhibit at the Lewandowsky Gallery at Winthrop University. His photograph was selected from several entries throughout the state for the annual South Carolina Schools Photography Competition. Way to go Josh!

Two-Hour Delayed Start for January 31st

This afternoon representatives from the Richland Two Transportation and Operations Department evaluated all of our bus routes and based on reports of potential ice on some of our rural routes and with the safety of our students, parents and employees in mind, Richland School District Two will operate on a two hour delay tomorrow, Friday, January 31.

A two-hour delay means: (1) students who ride the bus should report to their bus stops two hours later than usual; (2) car-riders should report to their schools two hours later than usual; and (3) employees who have not bee notified otherwise, should report to work two hours later than usual. For example, Ridge View usually starts school at 8:40 a.m., but will start at 10:40 a.m. instead. There will be no Early Bird classes.

Parents and students are advised not to call the district office or their school for information on school cancellations or postponements, but to visit the district website at www.richland2.org, R2TV the district's cable access channel on Time Warner and stay tuned to local media reports for updates.

Magnet/Choice Applications Deadline Extended to February 7th

The Richland School District Two Magnet/Choice Applications deadline has been changed from January 31st to February 7, 2014. For more information and to view the application, please click on the image of the Richland School District Two logo.

College and Career Center Updates

Due to the inclement weather, the College and Career Center has rescheduled some of the events hosted at Ridge View:

USC Beaufort Decision Day

Original Date: January 29, 2014

NEW Date: January 31, 2014

SAT/ACT Workshop

Original Date: January 30, 2014

NEW Date: Feb. 4, 2014 in the Media Center from 8:30am-3:30pm

Service Academy Night

Original Date: January 30, 2014

NEW Date: February 26, 2014 in the Media Center at 6:30pm

ASVAB Testing
Original Date: January 31, 2014
NEW Date: May 2, 2014

Bell Schedule For Thursday, January 29th

Here is the bell schedule for Thursday, January 29th.

Early Bird: No classes!

1st Period:  10:40 - 11:25

2nd Period: 11:31 - 12:01

3rd Period:  12:07 - 12:37

4th Period:  12:43 - 1:13

LUNCH:     1:13 - 1:47

5th Period:  1:53 - 2:23

6th Period:  2:29 - 2:59

7th Period:  3:05 - 3:35

Varsity Letter Jacket Sale Rescheduled

Due to the school closings, the date of to purchase your Varsity Letter Jacket has been rescheduled for Friday, January 31st.  The NEFF representative will be in the Multipurpose Room during lunch on this day.  As a reminder of the previous post, the jacket costs $99.00.  This price includes your name and putting your letter on the jacket.  Want more than just your letter and name?  Upgrades are also available.   

Click on the picture of the letter jacket to access the order form.  Please bring the completed order form, your payment, and any patches to be sewn on the jacket to school on January 31st.  Students will be sized when they arrive and can order any upgrades at that time. Payments can be made in the form of checks, money orders, or credit cards.  Cash will also be accepted, but it highly discouraged.  

If you have any questions, please contact Coach Gordon by email (dgordon@richland2.org) or by phone (803.699.2999 ext. 531).

ACADEMICS Spotlight: Biology Cell Investigation

Cell photo taken in Dr.
Degenhardt's class

The picture to the left is of a cross-section of celery stem tissue viewed at 100x under a compound light microscope. Students in Biology last week conducted a laboratory investigation to learn more about cells and the proper use of laboratory equipment. Lesson objectives were to demonstrate proficiency in the use of microscopes, and investigate cell differentiation. The picture shown is a student-generated slide preparation showing a vascular bundle (dark blue) containing xylem and phloem, surrounded by larger perenchyma cells.

Community: Drug Facts @ Sandhill Public Forum

"Drug Facts @ Sandhill" Shatter the Myths Public Forum will be held on Saturday, February 1st from 1:00 pm to 2:30 pm at the 494-5 Town Center Place (formerly Pet Basics) at the Village at Sandhill. This event is sponsored by the Fairfield and Sandhill 4-H Teen Leadership Clubs as part of National Drug Facts Week. 

What is National Drug Facts Week? National Drug Facts Week was launched in 2010 by the National Institute on Drug Abuse (NIDA), part of the National Institutes of Health. To counteract the myths they get from the internet, TV, movies, music, or from friends, NIDA scientist wants to stimulate events in communities so teens can learn what science has taught us about drug abuse and addiction.

National Drug Facts Week is held Monday, January 27 to Sunday, February 2, 2014. This is an opportunity for teens to shatter the myths about drugs and drug abuse. The forum will offer awareness and preventative strategies regarding tobacco and alcohol use. In support of this event, a panel of representatives from the Alcohol and Drug Commission, local hospitals, and law enforcement will field questions and concerns from the audience. SC Health Rocks 4-H Healthy Lifestyles Programs will supply information on alternatives to risky behaviors.

For more information about the "Drug Facts @ Sandhill" Shatter the Myths Public Forum, contact Angela Jones, 4-H Agent at (803) 635-4722, ext. 112.

ACTIVITIES Bulletin: Thursday - Favorite Disney Character Day

Our Cominghome Spirit Week will be held this week in celebration of our Winter Sports teams. The theme for the week is "The Wonderful World of Disney." All money raised during the week will go to the Juvenile Diabetes Research Fund (JDRF).

Here is what is going on today, Thursday, January 30th.

• Dress Day: Favorite Disney Character Day (May not wear masks or full face make-up.)
• Lunch Activity: Finish the Song... Disney themed in the Main Hallway
• Hidden Mickey - Each day during lunch, be the first person to find Mickey and will a prize.

RVHS On Two Hour Delay on Thursday, January 30th

Based on reports predicting icy traveling conditions and with the safety of our students, parents and employees in mind, Richland School District Two will operate on a two hour delay tomorrow, Thursday, January 30th.

A two-hour delay means: (1) students who ride the bus should report to their bus stops two hours later than usual; (2) car-riders should report to their schools two hours later than usual; and (3) employees who have not bee notified otherwise, should report to work two hours later than usual. For example, Ridge View usually starts school at 8:40 a.m., but will start at 10:40 a.m. instead. There will be no Early Bird classes.

Parents and students are advised not to call the district office or their school for information on school cancellations or postponements, but to visit the district website at www.richland2.org, R2TV the district's cable access channel on Time Warner and stay tuned to local media reports for updates.

Student-Faculty Basketball Game Rescheduled

The Student-Faculty Basketball previously scheduled for Friday will be postponed until Tuesday, February 4th. The game will be held during 7th period. Admission to the game and to get out of your 7th period class is $1. All proceeds will benefit the Juvenile Diabetes Research Fund.

SAVE THE DATE: Muffins For Mom - Wednesday, February 12th

Ridge View mothers, grandmothers, and mother figures are all invited to come out to our annual "Muffins For Moms" on Wednesday, February 12th.  Breakfast will be served in your honor in the Multipurpose Room from 7:30 am to 9:00 am. Please come out and have breakfast with your Blazer sons and daughters.

We ask that you enter through the gate near the Auditorium and proceed to Parking Lot-C behind the school.  There will be several JROTC cadets available to escort you to the Multipurpose Room.  We look forward to seeing you Wednesday, February 12th.

SAVE THE DATE: Open House - Tuesday, February 11th

Yes, the time has arrived to meet any new teachers your student may have for 2nd semester or check up on the year-long classes.  But for the Spring we have more available to you.  In the Auditorium, the Guidance Department will distribute PSAT scores as well as hold a workshop to help you understand what the scores mean.  And Mrs. Cheryl Hunter, our Instructional Technology Specialist, will present Chromebook 101 in the Media Center.  

We ask that you please park in our upper parking lot located at the top of the hill off of Hard Scrabble Road.  The lot entrance, when going up the hill from the Food Lion direction, is PAST the marquee sign on the left.  When you turn into the lot, there will be JROTC Student Cadets to direct you to parking Lot C.

Schedules will be distributed in the center hallway beginning at 5:45 PM.  At 6 PM, parents will follow their student's schedule to briefly meet with each teacher or attend one of the workshops being offered.  The schedule is as follows:

                                                               

                                                    1st Period: 6 - 6:07

2nd Period: 6:12 - 6:19

3rd Period: 6:24  6:31

4th Period: 6:36 - 6:43

5th Period: 6:48 - 6:55

6th Period: 7 - 7:07

7th Period: 7:12 - 7:19

Advisory: 7:24 - 7:29

Starting at 7:33 PM, time has been allotted for you to meet with your student's with early bird teachers or with those classes that were missed.  We look forward to meeting with you Tuesday, February 11th.

Ridge View Closed On Wednesday, January 29th

Per Joe Burke, Communications Coordinator of Richland School District Two:

Based on winter weather reports that are predicting snow and icy conditions and with the safety of our students, parents and employees in mind, Richland School District Two schools and administrative offices will be closed on Tuesday, January 28th. This includes all after school sports, programs, activities and clubs.

Parents and students are advised not to call the district office or their school for information on school cancellations or postponements, but to visit the district website at www.richland2.org, R2TV the district's cable access channel on Time Warner and stay tuned to local media reports for updates.

By state law, the district is required to schedule three inclement weather make up days in our school calendar. Those days are Feb. 14, March 28, and April 21, 2014. However, no decision has been made on which days will be used to make up time missed because of inclement weather.

HONOR ROLL CELEBRATION POSTPONED

Due to Wednesday's winter weather forecast, we will have to postpone the Honor Roll Celebration that we had planned for tomorrow morning.  The Honor Roll Celebration will be rescheduled for a later date in February.  

Attendance Recovery For Fall Semester Classes

Students who received an FA on their report card due to excessive absences need to check the posters that will be on display by the cafeteria tomorrow to see if they are eligible to make-up class time. Please check the posters to see if your Student I.D. is listed indicating you are eligible for Attendance Recovery.

Excessive absence make up time for first semester classes will only be held on February 8th and February 15th. Fees for participation are due upon registration.  The attendance office is very busy during this time of the year, therefore, we ask parents to abide by the following schedule for excessive absence class registration:

Registration Dates for February 8, 2014 Makeup Day

Students with last names beginning with:

• A - N: Monday, February 3, 2014 from 9:00 am - 2:30 pm
• O - Z: Tuesday, February 4, 2014 from 9:00 am - 2:30 pm
• Makeup will be served on Saturday, February 8, 2014 from 9:00 am to 3:00 pm

Registration Dates for February 15, 2014 Makeup Day

Students with last names beginning with:

• A - N: Monday, February 10, 2014 from 9:00 am - 2:30 pm
• O - Z: Tuesday, February 11, 2014 from 9:00 am - 2:30 pm
• Makeup will be served on Saturday, February 15, 2014 from 9:00 am to 3:00 pm

All 2013 excessive absence makeup time for fall semester classes must be completed by February 15, 2014.

ACADEMICS Spotlight: Goodwin Wins Poetry Out Loud Contest

Scholars Academy and School for the Arts Senior Jazmin Goodwin won the regional competition of Poetry Out Loud on Saturday, January 25, 2014. This affords Jazmin the opportunity to compete at the state level on Saturday, March 15th at the State Art Museum in hopes of moving on to the national competition in Washington D.C. Please congratulate Jazmin and wish her the best of luck for this upcoming event.

ACADEMICS Spotlight: AVID Taking Applications

The AVID program is now taking applications for the 2014-2015 school year. The deadline to apply is February 10, 2014. If you are an interested rising 10th or 11th grader please apply. The application is on Ridge View's website and on our AVID website.

AVID students are students in the middle, capable of completing a college preparatory or higher level path with some support. These students often are not realizing their full potential academically. In the identification process a number of criteria are considered, including:

• State Test Scores
• 2.0 - 3.5 or higher GPA
• Citizenship
• Attendance
• Desire and Determination
• Could be successful in Honors or AP courses, given the right support
• First in the Family to Attend College (this is just one determining factor and is not a requirement)
• Historically Underrepresented in 4-year colleges/universities
• Economically Disadvantaged (again, this is just one determining factor and is not a requirement)
• Other Special Circumstances

All factors are considered for acceptance into the program, so don't worry if one or more of these criteria do not apply.

ACADEMICS Spotlight: RV Teachers Present At Blythewood

Five Ridge View teachers presented at a professional development session at Blythewood High School on Wednesday, January 22nd. The title of the session was Mystery Date: Speed Dating Tech Style. The staff development was a collaboration between Blythewood and Ridve View High Schools. Ridge View was represented by Mrs. Cheryl Hunter, Leslie High-Washington, Carol Hollen, Robin McCants, Jeffrey McMicken, and Josie Strickland. To read more about the days events, read the district press release by clicking on the image.

ACADEMICS Spotlight: Strickland Earns Health Mini-grant

Johanna Strickland, Ridge View's Health teacher, was awarded a $500 mini-grant by the Columbia (SC) Chapter, The Links, Inc. This grant will be used for activities and experiences in Mrs. Strickland's Nutritional Health class this semester, including a field trip to a farm, guest speakers, shopping for and preparing healthy snacks, and collaborations with Dance and Physical Education classes to encourage a lifetime of physical activity. Congratulations Mrs. Strickland!

Ridge View Closed on Tuesday, January 28th

Per Joe Burke, Communications Coordinator of Richland School District Two:

Based on winter weather reports that are predicting snow and icy conditions and with the safety of our students, parents and employees in mind, Richland School District Two schools and administrative offices will be closed on Tuesday, January 28th. This includes all after school sports, programs, activities and clubs.

Parents and students are advised not to call the district office or their school for information on school cancellations or postponements, but to visit the district website at www.richland2.org, R2TV the district's cable access channel on Time Warner and stay tuned to local media reports for updates.

By state law, the district is required to schedule three inclement weather make up days in our school calendar. Those days are Feb. 14, March 28, and April 21, 2014. However, no decision has been made on which days will be used to make up time missed because of inclement weather.

ATHLETICS Highlight: Boys Tennis Starts Feb. 21

Any Ridge View High School male student interested in playing playing tennis this spring should contact Coach John Combs via e-mail (jcombs@richland2.org) or stop by C-64 during the school day.  More information can be found by going to: 2014 Ridge View High School Boys Tennis Information.

Ridge View boys tennis practice will start on February 21 (FRIDAY) at 4 PM. Before a student can participate in practice, we MUST have the following from each student:

1.     Have the $25 Participation Fee paid and the receipt turned into Coach Combs or Coach David Gordon—RVHS Athletic Director.

2.     A current physical (dated after April 2013) signed by a doctor along with the parent permission formed signed   TO GET THIS FORM GO TO: Ridge View High School Physical Form

ATHLETICS Highlights: Athletic Events for the Week

Here are the Ridge View athletic events for this week.

• Monday, January 27th: JV Girls, B-team Boys and JV Boys Basketball @ Lower Richland H.S. starting at 5:30 pm.
• Tuesday, January 28th: Varsity Girls and Varsity Boys Basketball vs. Lower Richland H.S. at home starting at 6:00 pm.
• Thursday, January 30th: JV Girls and JV Boys Basketball vs. Richland Northeast H.S. at home starting at 6:00 pm.
• Friday, January 31st: Varsity Girls and Varsity Boys Basketball @ Richland Northeast H.S. starting at 6:00 pm.

ACTIVITIES Bulletin: JDRF Charity Fundraiser

Ridge View High is proud to announce that it will once again be raising money for the Juvenile Diabetes Research Fund (JDRF). Any funds raised during our Cominghome Week activities including the Student-Faculty Basketball Game scheduled for Tuesday, February 4th will benefit the Palmetto Chapter of JDRF. Students can make donations to teachers or can drop it off there donation to the Annex. Community members can also make donations by dropping off their contribution to the Main Office. Checks are acceptable and should be made out to "JDRF."

For those of you who do not know much about juvenile diabetes, it is an autoimmune disease in which a person's pancreas stops producing insulin, a hormone that enables people to get energy from food. There is nothing you can do to prevent it, and nothing you can do to get ride of it. As many as three million Americans have it. Each year, more than 15,000 children and 15,000 adults in the U.S., approximately 80 people per day, are diagnosed with it.

We appreciate any support that you can give to this worthwhile cause.

ACTIVITIES Bulletin: Monday is Tourist Day & Hat Day

Our Cominghome Spirit Week will be held this week in celebration of our Winter Sports teams. The theme for the week is "The Wonderful World of Disney." All money raised during the week will go to the Juvenile Diabetes Research Fund (JDRF).

Here is what is going on today, Monday, January 27th.

• Dress Day: Tourist Day and Hat Day ($1). You can purchase a hat sticker outside of the Cafeteria, in the Main Hallway, and in the Main Office.
• Lunch Activity: Hidden Mickey - Each day during lunch, be the first person to find Mickey and will a prize.

Teens for Jeans: 1 Hour of ASD for 1 Pair of Jeans

You may now receive forgiveness of 1 hour of After School Detention in return for a donation of one pair of jean to support Teens for Jeans.

Teens for Jeans is a charity drive to collect used jeans to donate to local homeless shelters. It is also a nationwide school contest, which offers a grand prixe of $10,000 for the school, Aeropostale shirts, and a party! The Music Coffeehouse Club is sponsoring Teens for Jeans at The View. Please turn in jeans to Mr. Overcash's room (B-32). The deadline for turning in jeans is February 14th.

Charity 5K Runs Benefiting San Filippo Research

There are two upcoming charity 5K runs to benefit research to cure San Filippo Syndrome. This is a special cause for the Ridge View Community. Eliza, the granddaughter of  Mrs. Ellyn Parson, one of our Media Specialists has San Filippo Syndrome. Eliza and others inflicted with San Filippo are hopeful of raising enough money to begin clinical trials for a promising cure.

On February 15th, "The World's Gonna Know Her Name Run/Walk will be held at USC. This run is organized by the South Carolina College of Pharmacy and the Pediatric Pharmacy Advocacy Group to benefit Eliza and the San Filippo clinical trials. Miss South Carolina has asked to participate and sing Amazing Grace in the morning just prior to the start of the race.

On March 1st, Eliza's 9 Month Miracle Run/Walk will be held in Lake Carolina. This event is being organized by Kate Nelson, at teacher at Pontiac Elementary, where Eliza attends school. Mrs. Nelson and all of Pontiac have been amazing in their support. They call Eliza "one of their own." For this run, Mrs. Nelson is looking for sponsors in the range of $50 to $300. This is a great way for a company to get some exposure and help a great cause.

Registration for both runs is at http://www.strictlyrunning.com/.

Eliza is now "running" her own website, and you can read more about these events on her site at http://www.runningforeliza.com/. Check it out.

To read more about Eliza and San Filippo Syndrome, please visit the following social media sites.

• Eliza's Story: www.facebook.com/ElizaOStory
• Eliza Website: http//www.curesff.org/
• Video of Eliza: www.gofundme.com/ElizaONeill
• Follow Twitter: @ElizaOStory
• #elizasstory
• #worldsgonnaknowhername
• #SanfilippoSyndrome

ACADEMICS Spotlight: Honor Roll Celebration Reminder

There will be an Honor Roll Celebration in the Ridge View High School Auditorium on Wednesday, January 29th at 8:45 a.m. for all Blazer students who made the A/B Honor Roll by having all A's or B's on their 2nd Quarter Report Card. Parents and students are invited to attend.

Reminder: Rising Freshman Information Night

We will be holding an information night for parents and students of rising freshmen on Monday, January 27th. The event begins at 6 p.m. when parents can walk through the halls starting on D-hall to learn more about our departments and programs. There will  be a Freshman Information Meeting at 6:30 p.m. in the Auditorium followed by some breakout sessions for parents to learn more about the great magnet and schools within a schools program  that are going on here at Ridge View.

ACADEMICS Spotlight: Honor Roll Celebration

There will be an Honor Roll Celebration in the Ridge View High School Auditorium on Wednesday, January 29th at 8:45 a.m. for all Blazer students who made the A/B Honor Roll by having all A's or B's on their 2nd Quarter Report Card. Parents and students are invited to attend.

College and Career Center News for the Week

Here is what's going on in the College and Career Center this week.

Tuesday: 

• College Lunch Chat w/ Mr. McMicken in A-13. Bring your own lunch and learn about USC-Columbia

Wednesday: 

• College Shirt Day
• Alabama State University @ Lunch in the Main Hall

Thursday:

• SAT/ACT Workshop in Multi Purpose Room
• Serivce Academy Information Night @ 6:30 in the Media Center. Learn about how you can go to college for FREE!

Friday:

• ASVAB Test Administered
• Midland Tech @ Lunch in Main Hall

Upcoming Decision Days:

• USC Beaufort: 1/28

To sign up for an appointment on any of the upcoming decision days to the schools listed about see Ms. Bishop.

ACTIVITIES Bulletin: Cominghome Spirit Week Details

Our Cominghome Spirit Week will be held this coming week, from Monday, January 27th through Friday, January 31st in celebration of our Winter Sports teams. The theme for the week is "The Wonderful World of Disney." All money raised during the week will go to the Juvenile Diabetes Research Fund (JDRF).

Here is a list of daily activities including dress days, which must follow the school dress code.

Monday, January 27

• Dress Day: Tourist Day and Hat Day ($1). You can purchase a hat sticker outside of the Cafeteria, in the Main Hallway, and in the Main Office.
• Lunch Activity: Hidden Mickey - Each day during lunch, be the first person to find Mickey and will a prize.

Tuesday, January 28

• Dress Day: Goofy Day (Tacky Day)
• Lunch Activity: Disney Trivia in the Main Hallway
• Lunch Activity: Hidden Mickey - Each day during lunch, be the first person to find Mickey and will a prize.

Wednesday, January 29

• Dress Day: Sleepy Day (Pajama Day) - remember your pajama's must be dress code appropriate
• Lunch Activity: Hidden Mickey - Each day during lunch, be the first person to find Mickey and will a prize.

Thursday, January 30

• Dress Day: Favorite Disney Character Day (May not wear masks or full face make-up.)
• Lunch Activity: Finish the Song... Disney themed in the Main Hallway
• Hidden Mickey - Each day during lunch, be the first person to find Mickey and will a prize.

Friday, January 31

• Dress Day: Blazer Pride Day
• Lunch Activity: Hidden Mickey - Each day during lunch, be the first person to find Mickey and will a prize.
• PEP Rally/Student-Faculty Basketball Game during 7th Period. Admission to the game and to get out of your 7th period class is $1.

Reminder: Rising Freshman Parent Information Night

We will be holding an information night for parents and students of rising freshmen on Monday, January 27th. The event begins at 6 p.m. when parents can walk through the halls starting on D-hall to learn more about our departments and programs. There will  be a Freshman Information Meeting at 6:30 p.m. in the Auditorium followed by some breakout sessions for parents to learn more about the great magnet and schools within a schools program  that are going on here at Ridge View.

ATHLETICS Highlight: Wrestlers Place at Highlander Duals

Last weekend, the Blazer wrestling team finished 8th at the Highlander Duals at Heathwood Hall. The Blazers were led by strong performances from Deon Wallace (106 lbs, 4-0), Wesley Bockert (113 lbs.k, 4-1), Willie Webb (138 lbs., 3-1), and Kyle Knigge (285 lbs., 4-0).

The wrestling team would love for you to come out to Lexington H.S. this weekend to support the Blazers at the JV/Middle School State Tournament.

ACTIVITIES Bulletin: Jada Brown Crowned Miss Ridge View

The Miss Ridge View pageant was held on Saturday, January 18th. The theme of the pageant was "Over the Rainbow." Jada Alaina Brown was crowned Miss Ridge View High School 2013-2014. She was also voted Miss Junior and Miss Congeniality. Jada entered the pageant because she thought that winning the title would be a great opportunity to represent her school. She is looking forward to working with the school administrators and her peers to represent the school within the community. Jada is an "A" Honor Roll student who plans to attend college after graduation to major in Psychology. She also aspires to be a professional model. One of Jada's mottos is "With focus and dedication, I can do all things."

Please help us congratulate Ms. Brown and the following contestants who were also awarded titles: Tajah Pinkard, Miss Freshman; Faith McKie, Miss Sophomore; and Jazmin Perez, Miss Senior. Faith McKie was also crowned Partnership Princess for raising the most money for the pageant.

Left: Tajah Pinkard, Jada Brown, Jazmin Perez & Faith McKie
Right: Jada Brown with Principal Brenda Mack-Foxworth

Community Education Classes Offered by RSD2

Registration has begun for community education classes. You may register until classes begin; however, early registration is recommended as courses fill early. For further information on any course offered, call 736-8787 ext. 25103. All classes meet at the Rogers Center located at 750 Old Clemson Road, Columbia, SC 29229. The following courses are now open to registration.

• Introduction to Computers Class: This course is for the complete beginner and is the perfect starting point to help you with a personal computer. You will learn basic skills such as how to use a mouse and navigate around the desktop. From the first class, you will have your hands on the keyboard and have plenty of time to practice and build your confidence. The class is limited to 10 people. The class meets on Mondays and Wednesdays beginning April 28th. The class will meet for 4 weeks for a total of 8 sessions from 1 p.m. to 3 p.m. The cost is $60. The cost for seniors 60 and over is $30.
• Introduction to Computers II: This class is for people who have completed the Introduction to Computers Class (listed above), and would like to further their training. This class addresses your special concerns and builds your confidence and skills. The class meets on Mondays and Wednesdays beginning February 3rd from 1 p.m. to 3 p.m. The cost is $60. The cost for seniors 60 and over is $30.
• IPAD and IPHONE Devices: You must bring your own Iphone or Ipad to class. Instruction will be given on maximizing its use. The class meets on Tuesdays and Thursdays from March 18th to March 27th from 1 p.m. to 3 p.m. for a total of four classes. The cost is $20.

ARTS Focus: Dance 1 Exam Projects

The capstone assignment for Mrs. Ellen Harrison's Dance 1 classes was to create a dance to be presented during their exam period in front of a live audience. We invited their families to attend. After studying the art of dance, the students were charged with choreographing their own pieces. Each dance performance opened with a synopsis of the semester and ended with a dance party on state. It was a great semester!

ACADEMICS Spotlight: Junior Science & Humanities Symposium

(From Left to Right): Courtney Squirewell, Emily Davidson, Khalid Salah and Chandler Bailey

BioHealth and Allied Health Science Magnet students participated in the Junior Science and Humanities Symposium held at the University of South Carolina. This annual event is sponsored by the Department of Defense. The purpose is to promote scientific research and experimentation. Juniors Khalid Salah, Courtney Squirewell, Chandler Bailey and Emily Davidson attended student presentations. This experience is preparing them for their own research project that they must conduct as one of the graduation requirements from both the BioHealth and Allied Health Sciences Magnet programs. 

Domestic Violence Town Hall Meeting

Rep. Mia McLeod

Did you know...one in 10 adolescents reports being a victim of physical violence by a boyfriend or girlfriend? Please join us at our 2nd Domestic Violence Town Hall on Monday, February 3, 2014 at the Ridge View High School Auditorium from 6:00 p.m. - 8:00 p.m. for the purpose of raising awareness about dating violence among teens. This event is sponsored by Representative Mia McLeon, S.C. House District 79 in partnership with Ridge View High School and the Richland County Sheriff's Department. The meeting will be moderated by Meaghan Norman of WIS-TV.

Rising Freshmen Parent Information Night

We will be holding an information night for parents and students of rising freshmen on Monday, January 27th. The event begins at 6 p.m. when parents can walk through the halls starting on D-hall to learn more about our departments and programs. There will  be a Freshman Information Meeting at 6:30 p.m. in the Auditorium followed by some breakout sessions for parents to learn more about the great magnet and schools within a schools program  that are going on here at Ridge View.

ACTIVITIES Bulletin: Summer Reading Books Selected

The Summer Reading books for 2014 have been selected. Students will select one of these books later this semester to read over the summer in preparation for our Summer Reading Celebration Day in September. The date of the Summer Reading Celebration is TBA. The Rating System used for these books is Clean = Clean Read; L = Language; M = Mature Themes; and V = Violence. Here are the books selections sorted by category.

Connections of the Heart

Hollywood High by Ni-Ni Simone: Pages - 321; Rating - L, M

Leaving Paradise by Simone Elkeles: Pages -312; Rating - L, M

Who Am I Without Him by Sharon Flake: Pages - 224; Rating - L, M

Games We Play

Boy 21 by Matthew Quick: Pages - 250; Rating - L, M

Da Bears!: How the 1985 Monsters of the Midway Became the Greatest Team in NFL History by Steve Delsohn: Pages - 280

Final Four by Paul Volponi: Pages - 272; Rating - L

Out of this World

Anna Dressed in Blood by Kendare Blake: Pages - 320; Rating - L, M, V

Another Place to Die by Sam North: Pages - 250; Rating - Mild L & V

Hollow City by Ransom Riggs (sequel to Miss Peregrine's...): Pages - 400; Rating - Clean

Reality Reads

AD: New Orleans After the Deluge by Josh Neufeld (Graphic Novel): Pages - 400; Rating - Mild L, Mild M

Getting Away with Murder: The True Story of the Emmett Till Case by Chris Crowe: Pages - 208; Rating - V

The Fault in Our Stars by John Green: Pages - 318; Rating - L, M

The Other Wes Moore: One Name, Two Fates by Wes Moore: Pages - 250; Rating - Clean

Teen Issues

The List by Siobhan Vivian: Pages - 332; Rating - L, M

Things A Brother Knows by Diana Reinhardt: Pages - 256; Rating - Clean

Tyrell by Coe Booth: Pages 310; Rating - L, M, V

ACADEMICS Spotlight: Cupcakes For Success

The Blazer Academy distributed cupcakes to all students who made the A/B Honor Roll today as part of their Cupcakes For Success program. Mrs. Sharon James and Ms. Cheramy Reid organized the event. Below Principal Brenda Mack-Foxworth (top right), and Assistant Principal Dr. Ellie Muniz (top left) are pictured helping hand out the cupcakes. The Blazer Academy would like to congratulate all of our Honor Roll students for their hard work

ACADEMICS Spotlight: National Honor Society Induction Ceremony

On Thursday, January 16th, eight new members were inducted into the National Honor Society. These students completed a rigorous application process including a resume, letters of recommendation, and an original service project proposal. These students exemplify the four pillars of the society: scholarship, service, leadership, and character. Mrs. Mack-Foxworth spoke to the new members encouraging them to continually strive to be leaders and to serve their school and community. The new members are: Peace Ajukwa, Anthony Miranda, Colin English, Ambria Gillespie, Sydney Marsh, Jeymaris Sample-Hilerio, Myles Shipshock, and Anna White. Congratulations to these students on their accomplishment!

From L-R: Peace Ajukwa, Colin English, Jeymaris Sample-Hilerio, Myles
Shipshock, Anthony Miranda, Sydney Marsh, Anna White, and Ambria Gillespie.

Columbia College to Visit The View

A representative from Columbia College will be visiting Ridge View on Friday, January 24th. Interested students should see the representative during lunch in the Main Hall.

Lunch & Learn With AmeriCorps

A Lunch and Learn will be held in the College and Career Center on Thursday, January 23rd with a representative from AmeriCorps. Interested students should report to the CCC at the beginning of lunch.