September Newsletter

As we move further into the school year, it has been wonderful to see our students and teachers settle into their new classrooms, routines, and schedules. The first few weeks of school are always a time of transition and adjustment, and I am incredibly proud of the way our students have embraced these challenges.

This year, our students are stepping into the rigor of the Cambridge curriculum, and I have been so impressed by the effort, determination, and growth I see each day. Our classrooms are filled with engaging learning experiences, meaningful discussions, collaboration, and opportunities for students to challenge themselves academically.

At RPS Academies, we believe that being a successful student-athlete means developing both the body and the mind. Our students are building strong academic foundations while developing the critical-thinking skills, confidence, discipline, and perseverance needed to succeed in the classroom, in competition, and beyond.

I also want to recognize our students for the effort they are making to wear their RPS shirts and IDs each day. These expectations are more than just rules; they help build school pride, create a sense of community, and contribute to a safe and secure learning environment. We are working toward our goal of 100% compliance, and I appreciate the continued partnership of our families in helping us get there!

Our families are an essential part of the RPS community. Thank you for your continued support, encouragement, and partnership as we work together to help every student reach their full potential.

I am excited about the year ahead and look forward to celebrating the many accomplishments, milestones, and successes of our students. There is so much to look forward to!

Go RPS!

Warmest regards,

Stacy Reese

Principal

Mrs. Giraldez's Biology classes recently conducted a hands-on diffusion and osmosis lab. Students placed a potato stick and a cucumber stick in one jar and a gummy bear, representing an animal cell, in another. The jars contained either a salt solution, a sugar solution, or distilled water as the control.

Each class assembled a set of six jars on Thursday and made predictions about what would happen. When students returned on Tuesday, they observed and measured the changes that occurred over the weekend, allowing them to see firsthand how osmosis affects plant and animal cells in different environments. This engaging experiment helped reinforce key concepts about the movement of water across cell membranes and the impact of solution concentration on cells.

Students in Mrs. Velez’s Spanish classes explored the history and significance of Mexican Independence while also celebrating the beginning of Hispanic Heritage Month. Hispanic Heritage Month, observed from September 15 through October 15, recognizes and honors the rich cultures, traditions, and contributions of Hispanic and Latino communities. Through engaging classroom activities and discussions, students gained a deeper appreciation for the history and heritage that shape the Spanish-speaking world.

Special thanks to Mrs. Coello for her invaluable help with this celebration.

As the new school year got underway, students interested in serving their school community through Student Government submitted applications for a variety of leadership positions during the end of August and the first week of September. Elections were held on September 10, giving all students the opportunity to participate in the voting process and have their voices heard.

We are pleased to announce the results of the 2026-2027 Student Government elections and congratulate the students who have been selected to serve in these important leadership roles. We look forward to seeing the positive impact they will have on our school community throughout the year.

President: Lochlan Alexander

Vice President: Maria Jose Gil Castillo

Treasurer: Edith Baerlund

Secretary: Luisa Alvarado Villa

Congratulations to Cristina Alvarez, our September Student of the Month. Teachers share that Cristina demonstrates a strong commitment to enhancing her understanding and is always willing to dedicate additional time and effort to her learning.

RPS School Advisory Council Meeting Agenda (1 October 2026 @ 6:30P)

1. Welcome/Establishment of Quorum:

2. Chairman Updates: Mr. Lanier

a. Introduce the Teacher Council

i. Mr. Messinger – Vice Chair

ii. Mrs. Hodges – Treasurer

iii. Mrs. Stuvel - Secretary

b. Inform about standing up the Student and Parent Councils/Request Candidates

c. Introduce Mr. Wehner - Student Government Faculty Lead

i. Introduce the Student Government Cabinet

ii. Provide updates on Student Government initiatives

3. Guidance Updates: Mrs. Baxter

a. Discuss Graduation plan meetings

b. Discuss Senior Post Secondary Planning

c. Discuss upcoming College Fair

4. Administration Updates: Mrs. Reese/Mr. Anderson

5. Open Agenda

6. Closing Remarks/Administrative Update: SAC Chair/Principal

7. Next Meeting Confirmation/Adjournment

Meeting ID: 219 031 375 877 17

Passcode: KV9EN3g4

Microsoft Teams meeting link below.

At RPS Academies, we know that our school is only as strong as the incredible people who support our students each day. Our teachers, coaches, and guardians work tirelessly to provide our students with the academic support, guidance, encouragement, and care they need to succeed.

Each month, our Sunshine Committee, made up of faculty and staff members, works to create a special surprise or moment of appreciation for our hardworking team. The committee's goal is simple: to create small moments of joy and bring our RPS family together.

We are asking our RPS families to help us support these efforts. 100% of all donations from parents will go directly toward appreciation meals and gifts for our teachers, coaches, and student service team. Every contribution, no matter the amount, makes a difference.

Our Goal budget is Minimum $1000 collectively to provide appreciation lunches and special recognition for our coaches, teachers, and student service team throughout the school year.

October 6 Coaches Appreciation Day

May 4 Teacher Appreciation Day

May 10 Student Service Appreciation Day

There is truly no donation too small or too large. Every contribution is an opportunity to say thank you to the people who give so much to our students every day.

Thank you for helping us make RPS Academies a community where our staff feel valued and appreciated. Your generosity means so much to all of us.

This month, teachers were treated to a cozy, Fall-themed morning featuring fresh coffee and homemade baked goods.

We also shared a huge moment of gratitude for Mrs. Lech, our Media Specialist. The staff surprised her with balloons and a special card signed by all the teachers to thank her for her constant support, patience, and assistance with all of their technology needs.

If you would like to support the Sunshine Committee in continuing to spread sunshine, donations are warmly welcomed. Simply scan the QR code to contribute or click on this link. Every gift, big or small, helps us celebrate our teachers.

On behalf of the Sunshine Committee, thank you!

Flyers with details will be posted throughout the school.

7 - 10 PM at Ballantrae. Costumes not required.

The Halloween Party is open to all RPS students, both boarding and non-boarding students. This special event is designed to give students an opportunity to relax, have fun, and enjoy time with their friends outside the classroom.

Students can look forward to an exciting evening featuring a DJ playing music throughout the night, plenty of opportunities to dance, and a delicious ice cream bar dessert station. We are excited to provide a fun, safe, and memorable event where students can celebrate together and enjoy a well-deserved night of entertainment and fellowship. We hope everyone joins us for an evening filled with music, laughter, and Halloween fun!

The cost is $15. Please use the QR code or link below to purchase tickets.

https://square.link/u/aKTxGL99