The Ridge in Review
August 29th - September 4th
INTERESTED IN BETA CLUB?
Did you miss out on joining Beta Club last year? Applications will be open this semester to 10th, 11th and 12th grade students who have at least an 89.5 GPA and would like to join RRHS National Beta Club. We will hold a brief informational meeting on Thursday, Sept 17th in Room 2210 at 7:45am. Online application for membership coming soon! Check morning announcements, flyers around the school, and the Ridge in Review (Freshmen can apply 2nd semester).
ASVAB SIGN UP
The ASVAB (Armed Services Vocational Aptitude Battery) is a career exploration assessment designed to help students better understand their strengths, skills, interests, and potential career paths. While the ASVAB is used by the military as part of its enlistment process, taking the ASVAB does not require or commit a student to joining the military.
The ASVAB can be beneficial for all students, including those planning to attend college, enter the workforce, pursue technical training, or explore military service. Results can help students identify areas where they naturally excel and connect those strengths to possible careers. It is a great opportunity for students who are still asking, “What am I good at, and what might I want to do after high school?”
SEPTEMBER COLLEGE VISITS - UGA Just added
Attention Juniors & Seniors: September College Visits! 🎓
- Georgia Tech – September 2 during 1st Period
- Columbia University – September 8 during 3rd Period
- University of Georgia-September 10 during 2nd period
These visits are a great opportunity for students to learn about academic programs, campus life, admissions, and ask questions directly to university representatives.
Interested students must meet with their school counselor to register for the in-person visit.
Mark Your Calendar-River Ridge College Fair
Mark your calendar for the River Ridge College Fair!
📅 Thursday, October 1
🕛 During all lunch periods
📍 RRHS Library
Students will have the opportunity to meet college representatives, ask questions, and learn more about schools they may be interested in. We encourage families to talk with their students about this great opportunity to explore future college options! 😊
LOOK WHO'S READING
RRHS is starting the year strong with our literacy initiatives!
Early circulation data is already showing a significant increase in student book checkouts, a very positive indicator of student engagement with reading and literacy across the school. 😊
MARK YOUR CALENDAR
CHEROKEE COUNTY MARCHING BAND EXHIBITION
Save the date!
The 2026 Cherokee County Marching Band Exhibition will be on Monday, October 12 at Etowah High School!
This is one of our favorite Fine Arts traditions each year, bringing together all six CCSD high school marching bands for one incredible evening of music, movement, and school spirit. We are also excited to welcome The King’s Academy to perform with us!
Mark Your Calendars:
October 12, 2026
Etowah High School
Gates open at 5:00 p.m.
National Anthem at 6:00 p.m.
Can't wait to see you there!
PSAT/NMSQT & SAT TESTING AT RRHS
Dear Parents: The Preliminary SAT (PSAT) and the SAT are standardized digital assessments developed by the College Board that measure skills in reading, writing, and math aligned to college and career readiness expectations. On Wednesday, October 28, 2026, your student’s school will be administering the PSAT/NMSQT to all current 10th grade students. This test is funded by the state and provides sophomores with an important opportunity to prepare for college readiness benchmarks. Students in 9th grade who wish to participate in the PSAT 8/9 can register to participate. The cost per exam is $14. Students in 11th grade who wish to participate in the PSAT/NMSQT to qualify for the National Merit Scholarship can register to participate. The cost per exam is $18. Additionally, any 11th grade student (not participating in the PSAT/NMSQT) and any 12th grade student can register to participate in the SAT School Day. The cost per exam is $60. Wednesday, October 28, 2026, will be a remote learning day for any students not testing (students do not report to campus). For 9th, 11th, and 12th grade students, click here for the registration link. Registration opens August 17, 2026 and closes September 18, 2026. The Preliminary SAT (PSAT) is a nationally recognized standardized assessment that measures critical reading, writing, and math skills aligned to college and career readiness standards. Administered to high school students, the PSAT serves as both a practice opportunity for the SAT and a diagnostic tool that helps identify academic strengths and areas for growth. For more information about the PSAT, including test format, what to bring on test day, and scoring information, please visit https://satsuite.collegeboard.org/psat-8-9 or https://satsuite.collegeboard.org/psat-nmsqt. The SAT is used by many colleges and universities as part of the admission process. SAT results give students, families, and schools feedback on academic strengths and areas for improvement, helping guide course selection and preparation for college-level work. For more information about the SAT, please visit https://satsuite.collegeboard.org/sat-school-day. If your student provides a mobile number on test day, they will receive a text message with instructions to download the BigFuture School mobile app and sign in to view scores. Parents can view the results if the student shares access to their account or provides a copy of the report.
UNDERCLASSMEN PICTURE DAY 9TH - 11TH
HOMECOMING PARADE - SAVE THE DATE
FINAL EXAM DATES
Fall 2026 Final Exam Dates
Week of December 15-18
The expectation of all students is to take their final exams on the scheduled days. Unless extraordinary circumstances occur, students must take their exams during the scheduled time. Any student requesting permission to take an exam at an alternate time requires approval from Mr. Sanderson. Please understand that family trips and prescheduled vacations are not reasons for early exams. Only major, extraordinary events/circumstances are reasons for early finals.
FINE ARTS OPPORTUNITIES
U.S. Senate Youth Program Application
U.S. Senate Youth Program Application:
The 2027 U.S. Senate Youth Program application window is open from August 10 to September 30. High school juniors or seniors may apply, provided they meet all program qualifications outlined by the U.S. Senate Youth Program. The application, program criteria, and informational brochures are on the Excellence Recognitions U.S. Senate Youth Program webpage. Applications are due by September 30 at 5 p.m.
- Additional Information: U.S. Senate Youth Program Webpage
- Contact: Arlecia Brooks, arlecia.brooks@doe.k12.ga.us
- Deadline: September 30 at 5 p.m.
U.S. Presidential Scholars Application
U.S. Presidential Scholars Application:
The 2027 U.S. Presidential Scholars Program application window is open from September 1 to November 1. High school seniors may apply, provided they meet all program qualifications outlined by the U.S. Presidential Scholars Program. The application, program criteria, and informational brochures are on the Excellence Recognitions U.S. Presidential Scholars webpage. Applications are due by November 1 at 5 p.m.
- Additional Information: U.S. Presidential Scholar Webpage
- Contact: Arlecia Brooks, arlecia.brooks@doe.k12.ga.us
- Deadline: November 1 at 5 p.m.
GaDOE Student Advisory Council
GaDOE Student Advisory Council:
Students in grades 10-12 are invited to apply to serve on the 2026-2027 State Superintendent's Student Advisory Council. These students will meet four times a year in person with Superintendent Woods to discuss the impact of state policies in the classroom and other education-related issues. The application includes short essay prompts that allow students to share their ideas for public education. Applications are due by 5 p.m. Sept. 4. Info and application: https://gadoe.org/get-involved/student-advisory-council/
CELL PHONE POLICY!
Monday - Friday - Regular Bell Schedule
ADOPT A ROAD
“The River Ridge High School chapter of National Honor Society is proud to be making a difference through the Adopt-A-Road program in Woodstock! Outside of the classroom, they continue to make an impact in our community by offering to help keep our roads clean and well maintained. Keep an eye out for the signs located across from Culver’s and along Washington Road.”
Back to School: Stop Arm Cameras in Use
With school buses getting back on the road soon, I want to remind you that the use of stop arm cameras on our school buses will resume with the start of school on August 3. Passing a stopped school bus with signals flashing is dangerous for students, our bus drivers and motor vehicle drivers. Drivers who pass a school bus during active loading and unloading are subject to a $1,000 fine according to OCGA 40-6-163. Fees allocated from fines are eligible for school safety and security investments.
Our goal is simple: to provide an extra layer of protection for our students and bus drivers and help ensure every child arrives at school and back home again safely. We appreciate our School Board ensuring we have the tools and resources needed to keep students and staff safe.
SAT & ACT Testing Dates and Registration Deadlines
Reminder for Students & Parents: Register early to avoid late fees and secure your preferred testing location. Seats are limited. Mark both the test date and registration deadline on your calendar!
SAT Registration Link: https://satsuite.collegeboard.org/
ACT Registration Link: www.act.org
EUROPE - SPRING BREAK - 2027 - RRHS TRIP
RSVP Deadline Approaching – Switzerland, Italy, France, Spain Trip Info Meeting
I’m following up on our exciting Switzerland, Italy, France, Spain trip. The informational meeting is just around the corner!
It’s been amazing to see so much excitement about this opportunity. If you haven’t already, please register for our meeting to learn more about this adventure!
👉 Find meeting info and RSVP here: https://rsvp.eftours.com/wjxcwyc
We’ll cover:
- How to save $150 with early enrollment.
- What’s included in the trip.
- Safety, payment plans, and scholarships.
Plus so much more! Only families who attend will get first access to enrollment.
I’m looking forward to seeing you there and sharing all the ways this trip can open doors and broaden horizons for your child. Let’s make this dream a reality together!
Enroll Here:
You may also email me @ tracye.bulger@cherokee.k12.net with any questions!
LONDON - SPRING BREAK 2027 - RRHS TRIP
Hey Knights!
I’m thrilled to share that I’ll be leading an EF Educational Tour to London for an unforgettable week of business, branding, and adventure!
We’re holding a one-time informational meeting to share everything you need to know—and spots on this trip are limited: Monday, August 31st @ 6:30pm in 1101 @ River Ridge High School
👉 Find meeting info and RSVP here: https://rsvp.eftours.com/h2tmcst
Trip Details:
📅 When: 2027 – April 3rd – April 10th
📍 Where: London, England
Why you’ll want to be part of this experience:
- ⚽ Chelsea Stadium Tour – Go behind the scenes of the business of football.
- 🏛 Museum of Brands & Bank of England Museum – Discover how brands and finance shape our world.
- 🛍 Retail Strategy Walking Tour – Explore flagship stores and see how business meets creativity.
- 💡 Workshops at LSE Generate – Learn from entrepreneurs, innovators, and global leaders.
- 🎭 Theater Night in London – Soak in England’s rich performing arts culture.
- 🎨 Explore icons like Tate Modern and Tower of London.
This isn’t just sightseeing—it’s a hands-on journey into entrepreneurship, marketing, and global careers while experiencing one of the world’s most vibrant cities.
Reach out to Ms. Barber @ stephanie.barber@cherokeek12.net or enroll here: www.eftours.com/2921590JX
JAPAN - SUMMER 2028 - DISTRICT TRIP
An unforgettable adventure awaits your child in Japan!
Dear Cherokee County families,
We’re thrilled to announce our upcoming trip to Japan in Summer 2028, and your student is invited! This life-changing experience will help students build confidence, independence, and global perspective.
We’re holding a one-time informational meeting to share everything you need to know—and spots on this trip are limited:
👉 Find meeting info and RSVP here: https://rsvp.eftours.com/8kbw56b
Wed, September 9, 20266:30 pm - 7:30 pm
Media Center Sequoyah High School
Why attend?
- Learn how to save $150 with early enrollment.
- Get first access to limited spots.
- Learn about what we’ll see and do, academic opportunities, trip cost, and more.
In the meantime, please visit EF’s website to get answers to common parent questions. EF Tours is our trusted travel partner, and they have 60 years of experience helping students explore the world safely and affordably.
I hope to see you there and look forward to sharing how this trip can be a powerful and unforgettable chapter in your child’s life!
Best,
DeAnda Davis
Educational Travel Program
Cherokee County School
Stephanie Barber
Assistant Principal
River Ridge High School
PTSA Website:
Please visit www.rrhsptsa.com for all things PTSA! Links to Sign Up Genius, our calendar, reflections forms, Ambassador info, staff favorites and MORE can be found on our website!
PTSA Membership: We are at 570 members strong! To join PTSA, please join through Totem.
Reflections - graphic attached
2026-2027 Reflections
Reflections Program Now Open for Submissions.
Please review submission rules, program details, and entry form at https://www.rrhsptsa.com/reflections.
Physical media submissions will be accepted in the media center until October 2nd at 3:15pm.
*We are not accepting submissions by email. Physical media only. We also can not accept any late submissions this year.
- Reminder to order your River Ridge High School spirit wear. Don't see what you want? We are accepting custom orders through the site.
IN THE KNOW
REMINDER FROM THE NURSE
Please send in any updated Medical forms such as Emergency Action Plans for managing a student's health condition while at school. This also includes any medication to be administered by the nurse or self-carry items such as Diabetic Insulin, Inhalers, Epi Pens and the like. Prescription and Over the Counter meds need to be in original or unopened containers ( not expired). ALL forms can be found on the CCSD or RRHS websites under FORMS. Action plans can also be filled out by the student's doctor as well and sent in.
LOST AND FOUND
Lost and found can be located in 1201! Any items left will be donated.
ATTENDANCE EMAIL
We have a designated attendance email for any attendance notes and early check-out requests: rrhs.attendance@cherokeek12.net. Please use this email instead of emailing Mrs. Mondello or anyone else directly to ensure timely processing of notes. Sending notes through Canvas or Parent Square will delay the process.
TARDY INFORMATION
Please be sure to familiarize yourself with the RRHS - Tardy Policy.pdf
Especially, if you are a student driver, as parking decals are tied to tardies and attendance.
MORNING ANNOUNCEMENTS
Did you know – that morning announcements heard by your students in the am are also linked here and can be viewed here https://www.youtube.com/@RRHSKnightVision
RIVER RIDGE HIGH SCHOOL HOMEPAGE
Link to the RRHS homepage - https://rrhs.cherokeek12.net/
CCSD BULLETIN BOARD
Did you know that you can find out what is going on in our community by checking out the CCSD Bulletin Board. Check out the link below:
BIRTHDAY SHOUT OUTS!
Birthday Shout-outs Now Available!
Celebrate your student with a birthday message displayed on our indoor kiosk—just $5!
See the link below for all your - Academic, College & Career, Personal & Social student counseling needs.
New! RRHS sports streaming service featuring football, volleyball, basketball, soccer, lacrosse, and track. Check out: https://tinyurl.com/rrhs-sports
RRHS Coaches
Please find below information about happenings at the Ridge in addition to information on how to follow your favorite River Ridge sports. Please note that events on the athletic calendar may change at the last minute.
Morning Announcements
Homeroom Bell Schedule
Regular Bell Schedule
Bus Information
Free and Reduced Priced Lunch Application
2026-2027 ADMIN TEAM
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Contact Us
Email: Stephanie.Barber@cherokeek12.net
Website: https://www.cherokeek12.net/4/home
Location: 400 Arnold Mill Road, Woodstock, GA 30188, USA
Phone: (770) 721-6500
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/RiverRidgeHSGA