Newest Baby Blazer

Baby Everly Grace Ashley

Congratulations to Lead Teacher Bryan Ashley on the birth of his daughter, Everly Grace, on May 20th.

ACADEMICS: 20 Time Project Presentations

On Tuesday, May 19th, Mr. McMicken's Honors English class students presented their 20 Time projects. 20 Time is a unique project that allows students to work 1 day of people's time for a project of their passion. In this case, the students were given each Friday since September to work on their projects. This projects encompassed goal setting, implementing goals, and reflecting and redirecting goals. Students had to research, organize, create, cite, publish blogs, and showcase their work. click on the image for a listing of the students 20 Time blogs for more information on their accomplishments.

ACADEMICS: May Students of the Month

Congratulations to our May Students of the Month, who gathered for pizza and fellowship this past week. Dr. Thomas represented the Administration team and presented the following students with their certificates of achievement: Kathleen Arevalo (Science), Kimberly Bell (P.E.), Hezekiah Branch (World Languages), D'Asha Crawford (Fine Arts), Chrystal Cummings (AVID), Keron Darmanie (School for the Arts), Tatyana Dickson (English), Jaquavius Eaton (JROTC), Angel George (Health), Jazzmin Graham (Carolina Alliance for Technology), Lahsen Grich (World Languages), Audrey Harris (JROTC), Micayla Hayden (Scholars Academy), Kierra Jackson (CATE & Social Studies), Keva Jones (Social Studies), Quionz Lawson (Math), Andrew Marino (Bio-Health), Natalia Navarro (Science), Jasmine Nelson (Blazer Academy), Morgan Praylow (CATE), Mykala Ray (English), Shikerah Sims (Math), Courtney Squirewell (Bio-Health), and Lanaysia Wilds (Fine Arts). 

GRADUATION: Latest Parking Update

Heavy traffic is anticipated for high school commencement weekend and parking near the Colonial Life Arena and the Koger Center will be very limited. To avoid unnecessary parking delays, here are some suggestions from the USC Parking Services.

• Parking for Graduates: Graduates should park in the Horizon garage and ridge the USC Shuttle to the Colonial Life Arena. The shuttle will run 2 hours before the ceremony and 1 hour after. Allow 15 minutes for shuttle transports to and from the arena.
• Parking for Attendees: Park and ride shuttle service is available from Pendleton Street and Senate Street garages will start 2 hours before the ceremony and will run until 1 hour after the ceremony. Parking in the Pendleton Street garage is limited to metered spaces, which will be free of charge. Vehicle parking in non-metered spaces are subject to ticket and tow. Metered parking spaces are also available on Senate Street, College Street and Sumter Street in front of the USC Horseshoe. Shuttles will also pick up/drop off in front of the Horseshoe. Allow 15 minutes for shuttle transports to and from the arena.  
• Disability Parking: This lot is located in front of the Colonial Life Arena. Enter on Devine Street. Parking in this lot will require a handicap placard or license plate.
• Additional Parking: Additional parking garages are available on the corner of Lincoln and Pendleton streets on the corner of Washington and Lincoln streets. This will not have a park and ride shuttle service. Parking here may require a fee.

ATHLETICS: Final Rifle Team Information Meeting on Tuesday

The Blazer Ranger Rifle Team, which currently ranks #3 in the nation, is starting to prepare for the 2015-2016 competitive shooting season. The team is looking to expand the team and provide an opportunity for all Ridge View students, not just JROTC cadets. You do not need to have any experience. We will teach you everything you need to know. For interested students, the final opportunity to attend a mandatory parent and student information meeting will be this Tuesday, June 2nd at 7 pm in room B-35. For more information, click HERE or e-mail Major England at gengland@richland2.org. You can also click on the image to access the rifle team calendar and the July Summer Shooting Camp Schedule.

Summer Reading Books For Sale

Students interested in purchasing a personal copy of one of the school-wide summer reading books can do so between now and the end of the school year for only $10 in room M-108. Books may be purchased by cash or check only. Checks must be made out to RVHS; be sure to include a phone number.

ACADEMICS: Hughes Earns Perfect Math Score on the SAT

At the May 12th Richland School District Two School Board Meeting, Blazer Gregory Hughes was honored for earning a perfect score of 800 on the Math section of the SAT and the Math Level 2 SAT Subject Test. Congratulations Greg! This is a truly amazing accomplishment. Greg plans on attending Clemson University in the fall to major in Mechanical Engineering and minor in Environmental Sustainability.

ACADEMICS: HOSA Students Thank NHC

Our HOSA students said thank you to the staff on Hall 200 at National Health Care for being an amazing business partner. Our students had an opportunity to complete 40 hours of clinical study this semester.

REMINDER: Live Streaming of Graduation

In consideration of family members who may not be able to attend graduation ceremonies in person, Richland Two will again stream all high school commencement ceremonies LIVE. To watch, please visit our Video Portal page. Ridge View's commencement ceremony will take place on Wednesday, June 3rd at 8:00 am at the Colonial Life Arena located at 801 Lincoln Street in Columbia. We hope these graduation tips will help you and your graduate get the most out of this special time. Click the image for more information.

ATHLETICS: Sports Physicals for $20

Click on the image to print a voucher to receive the discounted rate of $20 for a sports physical for now through August 31st.

Free Chromebook Cases

All students are responsible for keeping their Chromebook cases over the summer. A Chromebook case, and a signed RUP, is a student's "ticket." to pick up his/her Chromebook in August. If you need a Chromebook case, you are in luck as many of our Seniors have donated theirs. If you are in need of one, please get one out of one of the bins on A, B, C, D or M hallways, outside of the cafeteria or outside of the small gym. They are free and are available on a first come, first serve basis. These cases are machine washable, and can be used next year.

ARTS: Leadership Students Campaign to End the R Word

The Arts Leadership performed their dance concert "Welcome to the Jungle" last week. It was an upbeat performance that was followed the the premier of Ridge View's End the R Word 2015. Click on the image for a video campaign to End the R Word! 

ATHLETICS: Hopkins Signs Letter of Intent

Khalil Hopkins on recently signing a national letter of intent to play basketball at Newberry College in the fall. Congratulations Khalil! All of your hard work has paid off.

Blazer Student Participates in DTOY Selection

Kierra Jackson is third from the left.

On May 1, Blazer student Kierra Jackson participated in the selection of the Richland Two 2015-2016 District Teacher of the Year (DTOY). She was one of 12 members of a Selection/Observation Committee to visit the classrooms of the five finalists: Megan Allen (Sandlapper Elem.), Nellie Jones (Summit Parkway Middle), Jarette Pendergrass (Killian E.S.), Amy Walker Smith (Forest Lake E.S.) and Linda Whitcomb (Muller Road M.S.).

1st & 3rd Periods Final Exams Begin Today

Underclassmen Final Exams for your 1st and 3rd periods exams begin today.  After the Senior Assemby, you will take your 1st period exam.  After lunch, will be your 3rd period exam.  Your Early Bird classes will meet at the regular time all week.  You will have 2nd and 5th periods exams tomorrow. 

RSD2 Child Development Program Changes

Spears Creek Road Child Development and Clemson Road Child Development have combined to form the Richland School District Two Child Development Program. Starting in the 2015-2016 school year, the program will offer needs-based, tuition-free 4-year-old child development classes. Students qualify for the program based on risk factors, free or reduced price meal status, and developmental readiness. Children must be 4 years old on or before September 1, 2015. Contact Debbie Brady or Quinne Evans at 699-2536 for more information. The Montessori Magnet Program at Pontiac will continue to accept 3- and 4-year-old children. Services for 4-year-olds will not be tuition-based; tuition will be required for 3-year-olds.

ACADEMICS: Institute for Health Sciences Graduation Ceremony

On Thursday, May 21st, the Institute for Health Sciences Magnet Programs held a graduation ceremony at the Brookland Baptist Conference Center in West Columbia. The students received their graduation stoles at the ceremony. Graduates of the BioHealth Sciences Magnet are Nissy Abraham, Richard Black, Denise Daquilanea, Nicholas Heiler, Logan Humphries, Kierra Jackson, Keva Jones, Andrew Marino, T'Keyah Martin-Jones, Connor McCloskey, Carlie Nguyen, Khalid Salah, Raven Sanchez, Zane Smith, Courtney Squirewell, and Tyreek Wilson. Graduates of the Allied Health Science Magnet include Emily Davidson, Sam Drafts, Morgan Leggette, Kie'ra Royster, and Olivia Sutton. Congratulations Blazers! Click on the image for more pictures of this event.

ATHLETICS: Cross Country Interest Meeting Today

There will be a Cross Country interest meeting today, May 28th, during lunch in the Large Gym for anyone interested in joining the team for the fall. Summer conditioning will start on Monday, June 8th at 7:00 am, and is open to all rising 7th through 12th grade students wishing to run on the Blazers Cross Country team in the fall. This is an excellent opportunity to participate in a sport for RVHS, and meet new friends. Student-athletes will need a physical dated after April 1, 2015 in order to participate in summer conditioning and during the 2015-2016 school year. MEDcare is currently offering $20 physicals. Click on the image for more information about our program.

SENIOR WEEK: Senior Assembly is Tomorrow

This week is Senior Week for the Class of 2015. Tomorrow is Senior Pride Day and the Senior Assembly. Seniors should report to the small gym by 7:30 am to line up for the Senior Assembly Please dress classy; refer to the dress code in your senior manual. Seniors who do not adhere to the dress code will not be permitted to participate. The assembly will begin at 9:00 am. All students should park in E lot tomorrow including seniors. If your parents or family members are attending, please instruct them to park in C lot and enter the school through the C lot doors. Escorts will be awaiting their arrival.

Underclassmen Final Exams Begin Tomorrow

Underclassmen Final Exams start tomorrow.  After the Senior Assemby, you will take your 1st period exam.  After lunch, will be your 3rd period exam.  Your Early Bird classes will meet at the regular time all week.  

Yearbook Distribution Today

Yearbooks will be distributed today, Wednesday, May 27th in the Multipurpose Room during 5-6th periods for seniors and 7th period for underclassmen. Please check your email for your invitation. You must have your invitation and school I.D. to attend.

Time to Return Calculator Rentals

It is time to return calculator rentals. Students should return calculators to your teachers as soon as possible in order to avoid receiving a debt sheet and being charged with the cost of the calculator. 

SENIOR WEEK: Thursday is 90's Day!

This week is Senior Week for the Class of 2015. Tomorrow is 90's Day! Seniors are asked to wear 90's attire (afros, knee socks, headbands, etc.). Please be reminded that the school dress code must be followed at all events. Day and evening events are for RV students only, and you must show your senior I.D. No outside food and drinks are permitted at evening events. Below is the schedule of events for Thursday, May 28th. Click on the image to see the schedule for the week.

• Laser Tag (8:40 am - 12:22 pm): Report to the large and small gyms.
• Lunch is on your own.
• 5-7th Periods (1:05 - 3:35 pm): Students must attend these classes.
• Skating at Skateland USA (6:30 - 9:30 pm): The cost is $6 including skate rental; roller blades are extra.

REMINDER: Scholars Academy Pampered Chef Fundraiser

If you love Pampered Chef products or want the opportunity to check them out, please take a minute to visit the Scholars Academy's online show. Proceeds from every order placed will benefit the Scholars Academy and help our students purchase the materials needed for success. The show ends on May 31st, so do not miss out on this opportunity. If you place an order, please be sure to check home shipping to endure the quickest delivery. Click on the image to view the show.

Tomorrow is Sonic Night

Come on out and join us for dinner at Sonic on Hard Scrabble Rd. tomorrow, Thursday, May 28th from 4 - 8 pm. A portion of the proceeds will be donated to Ridge View's PTSO.

ATHLETICS: Blazer Rangers Ranked 3rd Nationally

L-R: Tatiana LeGrand, Joseph Guider, Nichelle
Rodriguez, ZaCori Ross & Justin Turrentine

The results are in, and the Blazer Rangers have qualified in the Scholastic Sporter Class for the U.S. National Junior Air Rifle Championship held in Anniston, Alabama from June 23rd through June 27th. The Blazer Rangers scored an impressive 2162 points with 56 bulleyes during the SC Junior Olympics State Championship back in March of this year. Now that all scores from across the nation are in and the results are final. The Blazer Rangers have placed 3rd overall in the entire nation, and were only out of second place by a mere 2 points! Please congratulate them and wish them the best of luck at the upcoming championship.

ATHLETICS: Rifle Team Receives New Precision Rifle

Earlier in the year, Major England applied for an received a grant from the National Rifle Association Grant Foundation. With a grant of $1,675, the Blazer Rangers were able to purchase their 2nd Precision Class rifle. The Anshultz 8001 Junior with laminated stock is one of the top level German-made air rifles on the market today. The precision class is both an NCAA and Olympic level sport. The Blazer Rangers Rifle Tea looks forward to putting it to good use next year as they begin to move into the top levels of the shooting sports. Click on the image for more information on the Blazer Rangers Rifle team. For those interested in joining the team, there will be a mandatory parent and student informational meeting on Wednesday, May 27th at 7 pm in B35 or on Tuesday, June 2nd at 7 pm in B-35. All RVHS students are eligible to join.

ACADEMICS: Former NFL Player Speaks to Marketing Class

Retired NFL football player Tyrone Legette visited Mrs. Pat Jackson's marketing class on May 11th to talk with students about making good choices and the importance of getting a great education. He is a Spring Valley graduate, who received a scholarship to play at the University of Nebraska. He was drafted by the New Orleans Saints and played for the Tampa Bay Buccaneers and San Francisco 49ers. He now owns a construction company in New Orleans. He is also Mrs. Jackson's youngest brother.

SENIOR WEEK: Wednesday is Movie Day

This week is Senior Week for the Class of 2015. Tomorrow is Movie Day! Seniors can wear their pajamas to school, but please be reminded that the school dress code must be followed at all events. Day and evening events are for RV students only, and you must show your senior I.D. No outside food and drinks are permitted at evening events. Below is the schedule of events for Wednesday, May 27th. Click on the image to see the schedule for the week.

• Movies (9:30 am - 12:50 pm): Report to the Multipurpose Room; snacks & drinks will be on sale. Lunch will be on your own.
• 5-7th Periods (1:33 pm - 3:35 pm): Students are to attend classes during this time.
• Paint Party (7:00 pm - 10:00 pm): Report to the Football practice Field. Coast is $5. Wear all white!

Blazerfest Thank You

Click on the image for coverage of Blazerfest.

We would like to thank everyone who came out to our 2nd Annual Blazerfest last Saturday including our volunteers, faculty, staff and administration who helped to make this event a huge success. We would also like to thank and request that you support our sponsors: Blue Cross Blue Shield, Dr's Eyecare, First Cuts Design and Fabrication, Bojangles, CiCi's Pizza, Vive Church and Journey Church. We hope to see everyone next year at Blazerfest!

Happy Memorial Day

We hope that everyone has a safe and enjoyable Memorial Day. Please be reminded that school is closed today and will reopen on Tuesday, May 26th.

REMINDER: Track & Field Picture & Uniform Day Tomorrow

Track & Field picture day will take place tomorrow, Tuesday, May 26th at 3:50 pm on the track. Anyone who completed the regular season may participate in pictures. Anyone who has a uniform must also turn it in on this day or receive a debt sheet.

SENIOR WEEK: Field Day is Tomorrow

This week is Senior Week for the Class of 2015. Tomorrow is Field Day! Seniors are asked to wear neon colors, but are reminded that the school dress code must be followed at all events. Day and evening events are for RV students only, and you must show your senior I.D. No outside food and drinks are permitted at evening events. Below is the schedule of events for Tuesday, May 26th. Click on the image to see the schedule for the week.

• Field Day (8:40 am - 12:22 pm): Kickball, flag football, volleyball intramurals & a mechanical BULL! Meet on the Football practice field. Lunch is on your own.
• Yearbook Distribution (1:05 - 1:51 pm): Report to the Media Center.
• 6-7th Periods (1:57 - 3:35 pm): Students must attend these classes.
• Bowling at Royal Z Lanes (9:30 pm - Midnight): Cost is $8 and includes unlimited games and shoe rental.

Wellness Wisdom #10: Prevent Dehydration

Did you know that dehydration can impair your attention span, memory and motor skills? Stay hydrated, drink more water. This Wellness Wisdom tip is brought to you by the Ridge View Wellness Council.

ATHLETICS: Rifle Team Information Meeting This Week

The Blazer Ranger Rifle Team, which currently ranks #3 in the nation, is starting to prepare for the 2015-2016 competitive shooting season. The team is looking to expand the team and provide an opportunity for all Ridge View students, not just JROTC cadets. You do not need to have any experience. We will teach you everything you need to know. For interested students, there will be two opportunities to attend a mandatory parent and student information meeting on Wednesday, May 27th at 7 pm in B-35 or Tuesday, June 2nd at 7 pm in B-35. For more information, click HERE or e-mail Major England at gengland@richland2.org. You can also click on the image to access the rifle team calendar and the July Summer Shooting Camp Schedule.

ATHLETICS: Lady Blazers Basketball Fish Fry

Senior Week Events

This week is Senior Week for the Class of 2015. Click on the image to see the events planned for this week. Seniors are reminded that the school dress code must be followed at all events. Day and evening events are for RV students only, and you must show your senior I.D. No outside food and drinks are permitted at evening events.

International Paper Position & Scholarship

International Paper is looking for dependable women and men with excellent problem-solving, communication and teamwork skills to complete the new program and become eligible for an entry-level Mechanical Maintenance Technician position at the Eastover Mill. The mill will be awarding half scholarships of $5,000 for tuition and class materials in June with classes beginning in August & September. Scholarships include the option of a part-time mechanical maintenance internship while enrolled and progressing through the Midlands Tech program. Click on the image for more information.

enrolled and progressing through the Midlands Tech program.  Please go here for more information:  https://www.mebasc.com/scholarship-opportunity-by-international-paper-for-program-at-midlands-tech/ 

Underclassmen Final Exams Begin Next Week

Below is the Exam Schedule for all underclassmen.  There will be NO Late Start or Exams on Wednesday, June 3rd.  

Live Streaming of Graduation

In consideration of family members who may not be able to attend graduation ceremonies in person, Richland Two will again stream all high school commencement ceremonies LIVE. To watch, please visit our Video Portal page. Ridge View's commencement ceremony will take place on Wednesday, June 3rd at 8:00 am at the Colonial Life Arena located at 801 Lincoln Street in Columbia. We hope these graduation tips will help you and your graduate get the most out of this special time. Click the image for more information.

20th Anniversary Celebration Tonight!

Today is the day you have been waiting for, the grand finale of our year long 20th Anniversary celebration is today. Please join us for our Carousel of Excellence at 6:00 pm beginning in the Auditorium followed by additional events and entertainment in the gym areas. This event will not only showcase our milestones and accolades during our 20 years, but will also be a time of fellowship with your fellow Ridge View Blazers.  All current and former faculty, staff and students along with community members are invited to attend. For more information, visit our 20th Anniversary Facebook page. 

ATHLETICS: Track & Field Picture & Uniform Day

Track & Field picture day will take place on Tuesday, May 26th at 3:50 pm on the track. Anyone who completed the regular season may participate in pictures. Anyone who has a uniform must also turn it in on this day or receive a debt sheet. If you need an ordering form for pictures, you may pick one up from Coach Haver after school today, Friday, May 22nd, on the track.

Seniors, Missed An Exam? It's Makeup Day

Today is Senior Exam Makeup Day.  Please get with any teacher of the exam you missed.  This is the last and only day to make up any exams that you missed.

AVID Pancake Breakfast Tomorrow

A pancake breakfast will be held at Applebee's on Two Notch Rd. in from of Lowes from 8 am to 10 am tomorrow, Saturday, May 23rd. This fundraiser will benefit the RVHS AVID program in funding college field studies. Tickets can be purchased from Mrs. Hartin (Skinner) in C-72 or any AVID student today or you can pay at the door. $7 gets you pancakes, sausage and juice, tea, coffee or water. We hope to see you there.

20th Anniversary Celebration Set for Tomorrow

Ridge View is inviting all alumni (students, faculty, and staff) to celebrate with us.  We are having our grand finale, our Carousel of Excellence tomorrow, May 22nd at 6:00 pm beginning in the Auditorium. This event will not only showcase our milestones and accolades during our 20 years, but will also be a time for you to fellowship with your fellow Ridge View Blazers.  We would love to see you. For more information, visit our 20th Anniversary Facebook page. 

Live Streaming of 20th Anniversary Celebration Tomorrow

Whereas we would love for you to attend our 20th Anniversary Celebration tomorrow, you can also check in on the action as Richland Two will be streaming the festivities live beginning at 5:55 pm. Click on the image for more information about the live streaming.

ACADEMICS: CATE Completers

ARTS: Senior Arts Exhibition Tomorrow Evening

ARTS: Raku-B-Q Set for Saturday

The School for the Arts and National Art Honor Society are teaming up to host the Second Annual Raku-B-Q at RVHS. Rakus is a ceramic process of glaze firing that utilizes combustion and deaeration to producte a unique and indescent surface effect on pottery. If you'd like to take home a small raku fired vase, show up between 9 am and 11 am to glaze a piece before it hits the kiln. The event will take place in E-lot and the day's activities will include reduction firing demonstrations, and field day style games. All are welcome!

Applebee's Flapjack Fundraiser Set for Saturday