College Scholarship Information

Interested in applying for some college scholarships? For more information stop by D-95 and see Mrs. Aldighieri or click on the image for a list of scholarships that you could apply for.

Happy New Years Eve

Rising 9th Grade Information Meeting Next Week - TIME CORRECTED

There will be a rising 9th Grade Information Meeting for parents and students on January 7th at 6:30 pm in the Ridge View High School Auditorium. Parents and students can tour the building beginning at 6 pm. Come on out and learn more about Ridge View High School.

"Nothing But Net" in Two Weeks

Two Midlands school districts are holding a friendly rematch on the basketball court to see who can score the most points and raise the most money to fight breast cancer. The 2nd Annual "Nothing but Net" charity basketball game between Richland One and Richland Two will take place on Thursday, January 7th at 6 pm at Keenan High School, located at 361 Pisgah Church Road. Proceeds will benefit Palmetto Health Breast Center's Walk for Life. In addition to the basketball game, "Nothing but Net" fans will honor breast cancer survivors, see who boasts the best mascot and watch which school district official can make the most free throws. Tickets are $5 and can be purchased at Richland One and Richland Two district offices and at the door. Admission is free for children under age 6. Come out for a fun night and a great cause! The game was originally scheduled in October but had to be postponed because of the historic flood. All tickets previously purchased will be honored. For more information, call 738-3232 or email triley@richland2.org.

Senior Superlatives Nominations

Nominations for Senior Superlatives will end on January 13, 2016. Guidelines for Senior Superlatives are as follows:

• Only individuals who are classified as senior by the RVHS counselor's office may be nominated.
• Individuals may hold only one Senior Superlative title.
• Current discipline and attendance records will be considered.

Click on the image to make your nominations. Please use only a student's first and last name, no nicknames please.

SENIORS: Free Application for Federal Student Aid

All parents with students entering college in the Fall of 2016 will want to view this presentation regarding the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA). Click on the image to view a PowerPoint containing important information information and resources to help you complete the Financial Aid application in a timely manner.  You can submit your application beginning January 1, 2016. Please remember that the FAFSA application is FREE and even if you do not think you will receive any federal aid, it is necessary to complete it in order to qualify for many scholarships.

ACADEMICS: Free Online Tutoring Sites

The Blazer Tutoring Committee would like to bring your attention to some free online tutoring sites that can be used by students. 

• Government: iCivics.org (government educational games
• Math: Visit math.com for basic math for K-12 courses.
• Multiple Subjects: khanacademy.org offers practice exercises, instructional vides, and a personalized learning dashboard that empowers learners to study at their own pace in and outside of the classroom in art history, biology, computer programming, economics, history, math, physics, science, SAT practice, and more.
• SAT prep: prepfactory.com offers SAT prep including videos, practice tests, and other features in a fun format.
• World Geography: Use sheppardsoftware.com for map quiz games. The website offers free, online, educational games for learners all ages in multiple subject areas.
• World Languages: conjuguemos.com (French, German, Latin & Spanish); deutschdrang.com (German); duolingo.com (French, German & Spanish); en.ver-tall.com (French & Spanish grammar & vocabulary review); and studyspanish.com (Spanish verb conjugations).
• Writing: Purdue's Online Writing Lab (OWL) and citationmachine.net, which generates citations in APA, Chicago, & MLA formats.

ACTIVITIES: Mother & Daughter Tea

ARTS: Mattress Fundraiser

ACADEMICS: Scholars Academy Junior Advocacy Project

L-R: Tierra King, Jesni Sam, Micayla Hayden,
Mainaiya Myers, Madeline Hahn, Lynnise Brown,
QuaDaja Harrington, Megan Jennings, & Christopher Kane.

On December 18th, the Junior Class of the Scholars Academy Magnet for Business and Law presented their advocacy project on Teen Relationship Violence. The presentation discussed the many dangers of Teen Relationship Violence, and ways that you can support the passage of Sierra's Law, which seeks to allow teens to obtain restraining orders to those in abusive relationships and provide educational support to learn the signs of abusive relationships.

REMINDER: Race/Walk for Life

The reschedule Race/Walk for Life will take place on January 9th, so break out your pink winter scarves.  The online walk registration will close on Friday, January 8th at 7 am. Team Richland will meet by the playground at Finlay Park between 7:30-8:15 am. For more information, click on the image.

ACADEMICS: The Freshmen 5 - 1 - 1

The Freshmen 5 - 1 - 1 is what it takes for freshmen to advance to their sophomore year. Freshmen need to earn a total of 5 credits with one credit in English and one credit in Math for them to advance to sophomore status. Whereas we hope that you pass all of your classes, the 5 - 1 - 1 is the minimum requirement. Freshmen, are you doing all that you can to successfully advance to your sophomore year? Remember, exams are right around the corner.

WELLNESS WISDOM: Immune System Boost

Did you know eating more fruits and veggies can boost your immune system.  Their nutrients, antioxidants, fibers, oils and acids are not only responsible for their various flavors and colors, but also for their many health, healing, and immune properties.  These compounds are used by the body to directly combat inflammation and infections, as well as support detoxification and immune cell functions.  Click on the image to learn how the colors of fruits and veggies can boost your immune system.

ATHLETICS: Boys Basketball Traveling to the Queen City

Good luck to Varsity Boys Basketball team as they travel to Charlotte for the Queen City Classic on December 28-30th at Millbrook High School. Click on the image for more information about Ridge View athletics.

ACADEMICS: Dual Credit Courses

Did you know that Midlands Tech teaches dual credit courses here at The View. Students taking these dual credit courses earn one high school credit and three hours of college credit. Student must receive a qualifying score on the ASSET test prior to registering for these classes. These courses are free with the exception of purchasing a textbook and are taught by a Midlands Tech professor here at Ridge View during 6th and 7th periods two days per week. Students must be juniors or seniors to take these courses. Courses offered include:

• ENG 101 - English Composition
• ENG 102 - English Composition 2
• HIS 201 - American History to 1877
• HIS 202 - Americna History From 1877 to Present
• PSC 201 - American Government
• PSY 101 - General Psychology
• CRJ 101 - Introduction to Criminal Justice

ACADEMICS: Institute for Health Sciences

The Institute for Health Sciences is an RVHS magnet program designed to provide learning opportunities and real world experiences in mathematics, science, and technology related fields through a rigorous academic program enriched with innovative, collaborative case-based scenarios. Our mission is to engage students in a challenging and competitive educational environment to develop critical thinking and problem solving skills through a comprehensive course of study. Our faculty will support students in becoming self-directed learners that ask questions necessary to develop solutions for 21st century problems. The Institute for Health Sciences is one of six Project Lead the Way certified Biomedical Sciences Program in South Carolina. The Institute for Health Sciences offers two magnet programs: BioHealth Sciences and Allied Health Sciences magnets. Both programs require students to submit an online application through the Richland School District Two website. These highly selective magnet programs accept students based on the following criterion: application, teacher recommendations, test scores, and interview. For more information, contact Mrs. Jennifer McLeod, Magnet Director, at jmcleod@richland2.org or visit their webpage. Also, come on out and see us at the Magnet Information Meeting on January 7th at 6 pm at RVHS.

ACADEMICS: How Can You Enroll in AP Courses?

Students who enroll in AP courses are usually enrolled in honors courses, but are not required to have taken honors courses. Most students are enrolled in AP courses based on teacher recommendations, which are based on a students' potential for success n the AP course, but grades are also considered. In addition, some students are recommended based on their potential as measured by tests such as the PSAT/NMSQT. If you are interested in taking AP courses, speak with your content area teacher or your school counselor after the holiday break.

SAVE THE DATE: Career Day

ACADEMICS: Scholars Academy Sign

The Scholars Academy Magnet for Business and Law would like to wish everyone Happy Holidays! If you are out and about come check out our new advertisement on I-20 going towards Florence between exit 80-82 on the right. Don't forget to come here about us at the Magnet Information Meeting on January 7th at 6 pm at RVHS.

ACADEMICS: Why Take AP Courses? Build College Skills

AP courses BUILD COLLEGE SKILLS. Taking an AP course builds the skills you'll need throughout your college years. You give your mind a rigorous workout while polishing up your time management and study skills. You also get better at handling challenging issues and problems, with the support of your AP teachers. AP courses let you know what to expect during the next phase of your educational journey, and help you build the confidence to succeed. If interested in taking an AP course, see your school counselor after the holiday break.

We Are Looking for YOUR Stories

AT THE VIEW DAILY is always looking for new stories to report to the Ridge View Community. We are looking for anything related to Ridge View's 4 A's - Academics, Arts, Athletics, and Activities. Be sure to tell us the who, what, where, when and why of your story. Please submit at least one photo with your article to rvh-info@richland2.org. Be sure to include in your e-mail your name and association with Ridge View High School.

ACADEMICS: Teacher Cadet Applications

The Teacher Cadet program provides students with an objective look at child development and education. We are looking for young people to become advocates for education and possibly to choose education as a career. Students will be given the opportunity to observe and to assist in a variety of educational settings while being introduced to the strategies and techniques used by master teachers. Students will also examine agencies and groups that influence decisions and governance in the educational system. Students must complete an application form, be recommend by 5 teachers, and be interviewed by Mr. Tinneny, the Teacher Cadet Instructor. Taught like a college introduction to education course, Teacher Cadet is a hands on look at teaching and related fields and offers students college credit through Newberry College. An interest in exploring education as a career is not a prerequisite for this class as well as being a junior or senior with a 3.0 GPA. For more information, click on the image for a promotional video. If interested in applying for this class, see your school counselor or contact Mr. Tinneny in room B-33 or at mtinneny@richland2.org.

ACADEMICS: Why Take AP Courses? Skip Intro. Classes

A benefit of taking AP courses is that you can SKIP INTRODUCTORY CLASSES. If you already know your preferred college major, taking a related AP course and earning a qualifying score on the AP Exam can help you avoid required introductory courses so you can move directly into upper-level classes and focus on work that interests you the most. Even taking an AP Exam unrelated to your major (even if you're unsure of your major) can place you beyond your college's general education requirements. This opens up additional time on your schedule, enabling you to do a second major or minor, take exciting electives, or pursue other interests. If interested in taking AP courses, please see a school counselor after the holiday break.

ACADEMICS: Free SAT & ACT Test Prep Website

Our Office of School Counseling recommends that students check out a FREE SAT & ACT test prep website at www.prepfactory.com to get videos, practice tests, and other features in a fun format to help you study for both the SAT and ACT!

ATHLETICS: S.C. National Guard Sponsorship

Special thanks to the National Guard for becoming the newest sponsor of Ridge View Athletics! If you or someone you know may be interested in serving in the military part-time and having full-time benefits, visit Sergeant Joshua Condrey at the National Guard Recruiting office in The Village at Sandhill or call at (803) 667-2027. The Army National Guard; always ready, always there. RVHS Athletics is thankful for the support of the National Guard!

ACADEMICS: Why Take AP Courses? Earn College Credits

By taking an AP course and scoring successfully on the related AP Exam, you can save on college expenses: most colleges and universities nationwide offer college credit and/or advanced placement for qualifying AP Exam scores. These credits can allow students to save college tuition, study abroad, or secure a 2nd major. Check specific colleges' guidelines on accepting AP scores by searching the College Board's "AP Credit Policy database." If you are interested in taking an AP Course, see your school counselor.

ARTS: Mattress Fundraiser

ATHLETICS: New Girls Soccer Coaches Named

Emmanuel Abossi has been named the new head girls soccer coach at Ridge View High School. Claudia Castillo was also introduced as an assistant coach. Coach Abossi was born and raised in Ghana. He played soccer for ten years from junior level to senior level in Ghana, and he has coached at Camp Lejeune, NC along witht he South Carolina United and Liverpool Americas International. Coach Castillo played club ball for Coast Futbol Alliance in Myrtle Beach, SC where she was the team captain. Coach Castillo played for Myrtle Beach High School for four years and she now plays collegiate soccer for Columbia International University. Both coaches bring a wealth of soccer knowledge and passion to the Ridge View Girls Soccer program. Welcome Coach Abossi and Coach Castillo.

ACADEMICS: Why Take AP Courses? Stand Out in Admissions

One reason for taking AP courses is to STAND OUT IN COLLEGE ADMISSIONS. Deciding to take an AP course lets colleges know that you have what it takes to succeed in an undergraduate environment. When admissions officers see "AP" on your transcript, they know that what you experienced in a particular class has prepared you well for the challenges of college. Taking AP is a sign that you're up for the most rigorous classes. If interested in taking these courses, see your school counselor when school reopens after the holiday break.

ColaDaily's Free Community Calendar

Looking for something to do? Local Cola is a free community calendar at ColaDaily.com. Things to see and do all over Columbia and beyond. You can even post your own event - Festivals, fundraisers & community happenings! Submit your event listing on Local Cola, a free online calendar at ColaDaily.com.

ACTIVITIES: Mother & Daughter Tea

ACADEMICS: A Healthy Eating Reminder

A healthy reminder from our 6th period Nutritional Health class.

A Winter Wishes Gift: Blazing Saddles Chili Recipe

In appreciation for everyone who supported our Winter Wishes community service project, here is the recipe for Blazing Saddles Chili from the kitchen of Mr. Crowley, which won the "Best Soup" competition at this years' Giving Bowl. This recipe is intended for a large crock pot. If using a smaller crock pot, reduce the recipe by using only 1 can of each  bean, 2 onions & 1 lb. of hamburger. Tip: Dice ingredients as small as possible, so you can taste each ingredient with every bite. Enjoy!

Ingredients:

• 2.5 TBS of Chili Powder
• 3 Large Yellow Onions (Diced Small)
• 2 16 oz. Cans of Hunts Traditional Spaghetti Sauce
• 2 Cans Bush's Chili Pinto Beans (Do not drain liquid)
• 2 Cans Bush's Chili Black Beans (Do not drain liquid)
• 2 Cans Kidney Beans (Drain liquid)
• 2 lbs. Ground Hamburger
• 1 lb. Ground Italian Sausage
• 1 lb. Chopped or Sliced Kielbasa (Healthy Choice, Louis Rich or similar brand)

Preparation:

1. Brown hamburger and Italian sausage together and drain fat.
2. Mix Spaghetti sauce and chili powder powder and begin cooking at low/medium heat.
3. Add all other ingredients to sauce and mix.
4. Allow to cook on low/medium heat for 2 hours to allow the onions to cook thoroughly.

ARTS: Blazers Selected to District Honor Choir

Over 250 students auditioned for the 2015-2016 Richland District Two Honor Choir, and 24 Blazers were selected. The Honor Choir will perform at RVHS on February 2nd in the Auditorium at 7 pm. Congratulations to the following Blazers on being selected to the Honor Choir: Razji Cox, Caleb Cunningham, Keron Darmanie, Ilia Dia, Kyndall Donalson, K'nique Eichelberger, Je'Von Fickling, Jaye Gibson, Shawn Gibson, Maya Hannah, Abigail Harris, Khalia Harvey, Bernard Hasan, Kiara Hayes, Brock Jackson, Elise Lee, Shirley Lui, Gabriel McFarlan, Senika McKie, Allondra Stroman, Preston Taylor, Kaleb Williams, Courtney Willis, and Lauryn Wilson.

COMMUNITY: Journalism Contest Offers 4-Year Scholarship

The 2016 Journalism Contest sponsored by the S.C. Governor's Committee on Employment of People with Disabilities offers the opportunity for students to receive a four-year scholarship to a South Carolina state supported institution. Please click on the image for additional information. You can also visit the SCVRD website at www.journalism.scvrd.net. The due date for contest submissions is February 1st 2016.

ACADEMICS: Weeks Leaves for Governors School

Dr. Brenda Mack-Foxworth (left)
and Mrs. Staci Weeks (right) on her final day.

We are sad to announce that Mrs. Staci Weeks of the RVHS Math Department has left Ridge View for a position with the South Carolina Governor's School for Science and Mathematics. Mrs. Week will serve as a Mathematics Instructor and Program Coordinator for Outreach with the Governor's School. "The mission of the GSSM Center for Science Education & Outreach is to serve as a leader in the development and delivery of innovative and exemplary programs designed to improve and support the science, technology, engineering and mathematics achievement of students and teachers across South Carolina and beyond." Principal Dr. Brenda Mack-Foxworth "would like to than Ms. Weeks for being such a caring and committed teacher. We wish her and her family all the best as she begins a new chapter in her life."

Faculty-Student Volleyball Game a Draw

The faculty and staff took on Coach Bedenbaugh's Early Bird P.E. Class in Volleyball on December 15th. The faculty were victorious in the first game 25-7 while the students won the second game 15-12. A big thank you to the faculty and staff members who arrived to school early to provide the students with some tough competition.

Enjoy the Holidays

Senior Superlatives Nominations

Nominations for Senior Superlatives will end on January 13, 2016. Guidelines for Senior Superlatives are as follows:

• Only individuals who are classified as senior by the RVHS counselor's office may be nominated.
• Individuals may hold only one Senior Superlative title.
• Current discipline and attendance records will be considered.

Click on the image to make your nominations. Please use only a student's first and last name, no nicknames please.

ATHLETICS: Wrestling Update

The Ridge View Blazers wrestling team won its first match of the season against Brookland-Cayce 36-37 on December 15th, but lost two matches in the quad match. The wrestling team also came up short against Swansea on December 17th despite a great effort. Please continue to support your Blazers tomorrow at Westwood as they compete in the Bojangles Duals, which will begin at 9 am.

RVHS Online Portfolio

Learn more about the 4A's of Ridge View - Academics, Activities, Arts and Athletics  by visiting our 2015 Online Portfolio by clicking on the image. Remember, "It's All in the View!"

Holiday Break

Our Holiday Break will commence after school today. We hope your family enjoys your time together. We would like to remind you that school will resume on Monday, January 4th. January 4th was originally scheduled as a student holiday/teacher work-day, but it was changed to serve as one of our make-up days from the flood natural disaster in October. This day will also allow us to recapture instruction time lost during the first semester.  Additional make up days are scheduled for February 15, March 25, and April 29, 2016. A decision has not been made about the fifth day missed. We will wait to see if we miss any additional days due to inclement weather.

Last Chance for Senior Beanies

Senior beanies are currently on sale! They are $15 each and would make a perfect holiday gift for your senior. Contact Ms. Clary at pclary@richland2.org or stop by B-41 to purchase a beanie. There are only 20 left.

Attention Military Families: Tutor.com

Did you know that Tutor.com provides free 24 hour, 7 days a week, tutoring - no appointment needed. This online tutoring is at no charge to grades K-12 and college students in Army Reserve, National Guard and Active Duty military families. Every tutor is a carefully screened expert who has been through a rigorous application process, and an extensive background check to become Tutor.com certified. These tutors include certified teachers, college professors, graduate students, and select undergraduates from accredited universities and other professionals. Visit www.tutor.com/military to learn more about this great offer.

ACADEMICS: First Semester Exam Schedule

First semester exams will be administered from Monday, January 11th through Thursday, January 15th. There will be NO LATE START on Wednesday, January 13th. Please click on the image to see the full exam schedule. 

ACADEMICS: Senior Exam Exemption Policy

The following is the Senior Exam Exemption Policy for Semester 1. Any senior earning a cumulative grade of 92.5 or higher by January 8, 2016 in any Ridge View class shall be eligible for final exam exemption. This exemption does not apply to: group projects, performances, or activities which are counted as an exam; two-credit Honors/AP Chemistry, Biology or Physics courses; or state-administered EOC exams.

National Free Throw Competition for 8-13 Year Olds

REMINDER: Rescheduled Race/Walk Run for Life

The reschedule Race/Walk for Life will take place on January 9th, so break out your pink winter scarves.  The online walk registration will close on Friday, January 8th at 7 am. Team Richland will meet by the playground at Finlay Park between 7:30-8:15 am. For more information, click on the image.

ACTIVITIES: Bring Your A-Game to School BMX Ramp Show

In November, a special Junior and Senior assembly was held for the Bring Your A-Game to School BMX Ramp Show. This group is affiliated with the Army National Guard. Aside from the group's aerial acrobatics, a segment of the assembly focused on the Guard's seven core values of Duty, Respect, Selfless Service, Personal Courage, Honor, Integrity and Loyalty. Click on the image to learn more about this program.

REMINDER: How Students Can Serve Hours