The VIEW
Newsletter for Ridgeview MS (Issue 1: 8.2025)
The Principal's Post
Dear RMS Families,
October is here! Complete with pumpkin spice and everything nice.
At Ridgeview, we have moved ”full throttle” through the first nine weeks! October 15th will mark the end of the first grading period and we want all of our scholars to finish strong.
The month of October will also bring our first parent-teacher conferences on Tuesday, October 20th. Don’t forget to sign up with your child’s teachers for individual conferences. Also, on this evening at 5:30 pm we will hold our annual ESL Family Night. I encourage all of our ESL (English as a Second Language) families to attend to learn how to support their child in increased English proficiency.
Finally, as a reminder, at Ridgeview we have our PBIS Behavior Expectations “Be RMS“ and all scholars are expected to follow the CCS/Ridgeview Dress Code. Please review the following expectations with your child.
1. All electronics, including cell phones are to be off and put away at all times.
2. Sleep wear, short clothing of any kind, belly/half tops, house shoes, flip-flops, bonnets, and durags are all prohibited at Ridgeview MS.
We appreciate your support in helping us to keep the focus on academics at Ridgeview.
With Joy!
Natalie M. James
Principal
Ms. Shroyer’s Salutations: Safe, Respectful, Supportive Environment at RMS!
Dear Families and Scholars,
As we transition into the energy and excitement of October, our focus remains on fostering a safe, respectful, and supportive environment for all our scholars.
Middle school is a time of immense growth, and we are working hard daily to encourage positive behavior, accountability, and mutual respect in our classrooms and hallways. We kindly ask that you partner with us by having conversations with your child about positive coping strategies and the importance of working through peer conflicts peacefully. Reminding them to utilize our school counselors, social worker, administrators, and trusted teachers when they feel overwhelmed or frustrated goes a long way in helping them make constructive choices.
News from Nurse Gina - October 2026
Dear Parents,
The Counselor’s Corner: Supporting your Middle Schooler Through the Fall
Dear Parents,
October is a wonderful time to pause, check in, and reconnect with your middle schooler. By now, the excitement of a new school year has settled, routines are established, and students are becoming more comfortable with their classes, teachers, and peers. At the same time, the demands of middle school can begin to feel more challenging.
As parents and caregivers, one of the most helpful things we can do is stay connected and keep the lines of communication open. Check the parent portal often for grades and attendance.
Encourage Healthy Routines
Middle school students are balancing academics, friendships, activities, responsibilities, and plenty of changes. Consistent routines can help them feel more organized and confident. Encourage your child to:
- Get enough sleep each night.
- Eat regular, nutritious meals.
- Keep a consistent homework and study routine.
- Take breaks and make time for activities they enjoy.
- Limit distractions, especially when completing schoolwork.
- Prepare for the next day before going to bed.
Small habits can make a big difference in how students manage stress and stay focused.
Ask More than “How Was School?”
Sometimes middle schoolers aren't eager to share details about their day. Instead of asking a question that can be answered with “fine,” try questions such as:
- “What was something interesting about your day?”
- “What made you laugh today?”
- “Was anything frustrating today?”
- “Who did you spend time with?”
- “Is there anything you need help with?”
Most importantly, listen without immediately trying to solve the problem. Sometimes students simply need a safe person who will listen and understand.
Watch for Signs of Stress
A certain amount of stress is normal, but significant or ongoing changes in behavior may be worth a conversation. Keep an eye out for changes in sleep, mood, appetite, friendships, school attendance, motivation, or academic performance.
If you are concerned about your child, please reach out to their teachers, counselor, or another trusted adult at school. Working together can help us better understand what your child needs and identify ways to support them.
Help Your Child Build Independence
Middle school is an important time for students to develop responsibility and problem-solving skills. Whenever possible, encourage your child to take the lead in managing assignments, communicating with teachers, and solving everyday challenges.
You can still provide support without taking over. Asking, “What do you think your next step should be?” can help students develop confidence and independence.
A Counselor’s Reminder
Every student experiences middle school differently. Some students seem to thrive right away, while others need more time to adjust. A kind word, a listening ear, and a reminder that mistakes are part of learning can go a long way.
Please remember that asking for help is a strength, not a weakness. Our goal is to partner with families so that every student feels supported, connected, and ready to grow.
Wishing all of our families a happy, healthy, and successful October!
Julie Thomas
National Board-Certified School Counselor
Columbus City Schools
Ridgeview Middle School
4241 Rudy Road
Columbus, OH 43214
(614) 365-5506 school number
(380) 997-1849 direct line
Google Voice (phone and text) 614-636-5470
Ridgeview Performance on the State Report Card
The State Report cards are in! Ridgeview once again maintained our 3.5 star rating.
Growth areas included:
- 6th Grade ELA
- 6th Grade Math
- 8th Grade Math
- Gifted Value Added Rating from 3 - 4 stars.
Calendar of Events
- 10.8, Thursday, 6:00 pm: PTA Meeting: https://us05web.zoom.us/j/6811509368? pwd=Tqhyg1IxKN6tR4w3GG8UP9cGbBaGoR.1&omn=81337699576
- 10.9, Friday, 3 - 6 pm: RMS Flower Sale Pickup at Gables ES (see flyer below for pick up details)
- 10.15, Thursday: End of Quarter
- 10.16, Friday: Professional Development Day (No students in attendance)
- 10.19, Monday: Records Day (No students in attendance)
- 10.20, Tuesday, 4:00 - 8:00 pm: Chipotle Band Fundraiser (771 Bethel Road)
- 10.20, Tuesday, 8:00 am: Picture Day
- 10.20, Tuesday, 5:30 - 6:30 pm: ESL Family Meeting
- 10.20, Tuesday, 2:45 - 6:30 pm: Fall Parent Teacher Conference
- 11.3, Tuesday: Professional Development Day
- 11.4, Wednesday, 2:45 - 6:30 pm: Fall Parent Teacher Conference
- 11.5, Thursday, 6:00 pm: PTA Meeting: https://us05web.zoom.us/j/6811509368? pwd=Tqhyg1IxKN6tR4w3GG8UP9cGbBaGoR.1&omn=81337699576
- 11.12, Thursday, 5:30 - 7:00 pm: The RMS Math Fall Family Night
- 11.23-27: All Schools Closed - Wellness Week (11.25 - Compensatory Day for Parent Conference)
- 2.6.27, 9:00 am - 2:00 pm: Dr. MLK Jr. Youth Orator Contest (more information to follow)
Soccer Team
The Ridgeview Raiders soccer season is in full swing, and the team currently sits at 2–3, including two strong victories over Dominion!
The Raiders came up just short against World Language and Woodward Park, but one thing has been consistent every week: this team keeps getting better. The Raiders are showing improvement in passing, defending, teamwork, and overall toughness every time they take the field.
Next week, the Raiders are back home for two games on Wednesday and Thursday against Indianola.
Come out and support the team!
Coaches Sztul and Boerner are proud of the hard work, growth, and determination this team continues to show. Keep working, keep improving, and keep fighting, Raiders! Go Raiders!
In Education,
Eric Sztul
Ridgeview Middle School
Seventh Grade Science
Head Soccer & Track & Field Coach
Land of the Arts with Dr. Cegala
The Land of Art consistently provides a stimulating and enriching environment for its artists and RMS scholars, enabling them to witness and appreciate the exceptional talents of their peers.
Check out our recent endeavors.
8th GRADE ARTISTS have been studying the four types of balance: symmetrical, approximate, asymmetrical, and radial. To engage with the fall season, students created Sugar Skulls, one for each type of balance. Visit our display in the lobby to see their work.
7th GRADE ARTISTS have been moving throughout history, learning about art following their Social Studies curriculum. We are currently in the Middle Ages learning about Illuminated Letters.
6th GRADE ARTISTS are working on a collage based on the work of Keith Haring. Fun fact, he was featured on CBS Sunday morning last month.
8th Grade
8th Grade
8th Grade
7th Grade
7th Grade
6th Grade
6th Grade
Gifted Scholars - News from Ms. Debnam
Dear RMS Families,
The City of Columbus Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. Youth
Oratorical Contest returns
Saturday, February 6, 2027, from 9:00 am - 2:00 pm.
For over 25 years, this cherished Columbus tradition has been a fantastic way for young people to boost their confidence, sharpen their public speaking abilities, and share their thoughts while paying tribute to the life and work of Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. RMS scholars are encouraged to apply when applications are available later this month.
Local winners will qualify to represent Columbus in the Statewide MLK Oratorical Contest.
Ridgeview Reading Raiders - October Focuses on Hispanic and Latin Authors
Greetings,
As we are in the midst of Hispanic Heritage Month, I wanted to highlight some of the many fantastic Hispanic and Latin authors whose books are in our library.
● The Sun & the Star, by Mark Oshiro, is co-written with Rick Riordan and a companion to his popular Percy Jackson series and his most popular work in our library. I highly recommend anything Oshiro, but my personal favorite is You Only Live Once, David Bravo. Oshiro’s middle grade titles are found in our Fantasy section.
● Miss Quinces, by Kate Fajardo, is another immensely popular title in our library. This graphic novel is about a girl who would rather do anything other than celebrate her quinceañera. The follow-up, Miss Camper, is equally delightful.
● Another popular & award-winning graphic novel is Mexikid by Pedro Martin, a memoir that tells of his large family’s road trip to Mexico to bring his grandfather home.
● Celia Perez has been a middle grade staple since she published The First Rule of Punk, a story that would have fit well in last month’s column on new beginnings Her newest novel, Tumble, follows Adela as she meets her biological father (a luchador) while weighing the decision of being adopted by her stepfather.
● Meg Medina’s Mercy Suarez Changes Gears is one of my all-time favorite middle grade novels. Did I recommend it last month? MAYBE. But it’s a great start to a wonderful series.
Ms. Lawson
RMS Librarian
Ron Clark Academy RMS’s PBIS
Last year, the Ron Clark Academy House System was evaluated with the entire 7th-grade class and a select few 8th-grade classrooms. This academic year, the new PBIS system is being implemented school-wide. Scholars are categorized into Houses and can accumulate points for themselves and their respective Houses based on their behavior.
The Ron Clark Academy House System is a multi-age peer grouping program created by the Ron Clark Academy in Atlanta, Georgia, to build positive school culture, character, and a family-like sense of belonging.
How the House System Works
The Sorting: Students and staff spin a specialized wheel or use a sorting method to join a specific "House" during a special ceremony. Once sorted, members stay in that same House for their entire time at the school.
Earning Points: Students earn digital points for their House by demonstrating good character, academic effort, kindness, and positive behavior. Points are tracked publicly to boost motivation and school spirit.
Friendly Competition: Houses compete in school-wide events, games, and academic challenges, working toward an end-of-year championship trophy.
Cross-Grade Connections: The system mixes students from different grade levels together, fostering mentorship and teamwork across the entire building.
Let Math Become Your Super Power!
Hello Families,
The 2026-2027 school year is officially underway, and the Math Department and our scholars are diving into the work! Since the end of August, scholars have been exploring ALEKs, and our ALEKs Wall of Fame is starting to showcase students who are reaching important milestones this year.
We are also excited to start our first ALEKs competition on October 5th. Scholars will be working as a class to complete topics to stay ahead of the "Zombie Herd" and survive until October 30th. Classes that “stay alive” will receive a special treat at the conclusion of the competition. With the completion of the I-Ready Math diagnostic, the Math Department has been hard at work analyzing data and delivering math intervention to help move our scholars forward.
Have a great October and we hope to see everyone at
the Ridgeview Math Family Night on Thursday, November 12th.
Michael Casale
6th Grade Math and Social Studies
Math Department Chair
Ridgeview Middle School
614-365-5506
Mexican Culture: Celebrating Dia de los Muertos (Day of the Dead)
In late October and early November, many families celebrate Día de los Muertos, a meaningful tradition that honors loved ones who have passed away. Rooted in Mexican culture, this holiday is a time of remembrance, reflection, and celebration of life.
While it is sometimes misunderstood, Día de los Muertos is not a somber or scary holiday. Instead, it is a joyful occasion where families create colorful altars, share favorite foods, and remember those they love through stories, music, and traditions.
Recognizing Día de los Muertos helps students appreciate cultural traditions with respect and understanding. It encourages empathy, celebrates diversity, and reminds us of the importance of honoring family and heritage in meaningful ways.
VISION, MISSION, and CORE VALUES
To get where you want to go, you need a clear vision, and Ridgeview definitely has that! Plus, understanding the plan or expectations is key, which is what we call our mission. Finally, knowing what’s important helps us create Core Values, and RMS has four of them.
To really succeed, it’s important to get a clear picture of our Vision, Mission, and 4 Core Values.
RMS Vision
RMS Mission
RMS 4 Core Values
Talking Points - Bridging the Communication Gap
RMS utilizes TalkingPoints as a comprehensive schoolwide communication tool to engage families. In fact, parents are encouraged to use tool in an effort to engage more.
It easy to access because all families automatically have the primary contact from the Parent Portal “opted in” to receive messages. Initially, you’ll receive messages via text on your cell phone until you download and activate the TalkingPoints app. Once activated, you can promptly reply to messages received through TalkingPoints with any questions or comments.
We particularly appreciate the feature that automatically translates messages into over 150 languages!
Columbus City Schools highly recommends down loading the free talking points app
for a better communication experience.
* Parents please note, Nurse Gina and some teachers are using Talking Points on a daily basis.
ESL (English as a Second Language) & LEP (Limited English Proficiency) Services
Free language assistance is available to Columbus City Schools parents regarding school programs and activities.
A parent does not have to be of limited English proficiency in speaking, reading, writing, and comprehending English in order to be considered of limited English proficiency (LEP) but rather, it is only necessary that a parent be limited in at least one of these areas in order to be eligible to receive language assistance as needed.
No other verification is necessary in order to receive language assistance. Services may be requested for, but not limited to, the following events: parent-teacher conferences, disciplinary hearings, IEP meetings, and 504 meetings. Please be advised that while parents may bring family members and friends to all school activities and meetings, the District shall be responsible for providing any necessary interpreting or translating services.
For assistance, please contact the ESL Department at 614.365.8802.
Tutoring & Academic Support and Digital Tips
Do you need academic support for tutoring for your student?
Click on the links below.
Also, help your child get a library card and make trips to the library a family fun activity.
- Academic Support - https://www.ccsoh.us/search-results?q=Academic+support
CPS and Columbus Metropolitan Library
The Columbus Metropolitan library and Columbus City Schools working together to create learning opportunities for our scholars.
Click HERE or on the logo above to access the Columbus Metropolitan Library.
Need Help? Check Out Our Community Partners
LSS 211 offers services from homeless shelters to senior living. Call 211.
- Cap4Kids provides resources for families in the areas of meals, housing, utilities, mental health, and lots more!
- Charitable Pharmacy of Central Ohio offers pharmacy services and medicines, counseling on proper medication usage, health screenings, wellness education, and social program assistance for those who cannot afford them. (614) 227-0301.
- Clintonville Resource Center serving all of Central Ohio by providing assistance through the food pantry, child and youth programs, senior services, and kinship care program.
- Mid Ohio Food Bank provides food locations by zip code.
- OhioKAN ensures every kinship and adoptive family who wants support navigating the resources available to them can get it.
Ridgeview Middle School
Ridgeview Attendance email: attendance.ridgeview@columbus.k12.oh.us
Ridgeview Attendance phone number: 380.997.6994
FACTline Email: factline@columbus.k12.oh.us
FACTline Phone Number: 614.221.FACT (614.221.3228)
Customer Relations Phone Number: 614.365.8888
Customer Relations Email: customerrelations@columbus.k12.oh.us
Family Ambassador Debora Myles: 614.365.5506 and dmyles@columbus.k12.oh.us
Email: ridgeviewms@columbus.k12.oh.us
Website: https://www.ccsoh.us/RidgeviewMS
Location: 4241 Rudy Rd, Columbus, OH 43214, USA
Phone: 614.365.5506
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/RidgeviewProud