News from the Nest
Issue #245, November 6th, 2026
RULH High School Holds National Honor Society Induction Ceremony
National Honor Society Members:
Officers
President - Jasmine Young
Vice President - Gabrielle Himes
Secretary - Lindsay DeAtley
Treasurer - Jase Lang
Historian - Sara Hopper
Parliamentarian - Olivia Smith
Newly Inducted Members (pictured below from left to right)
Aubree May
Brooklynne Ayers
Giovanni (Gio) Lackey
Aiden (Cash) Bolar
James (Jimmy) Miller
Skylar Hare
Mrs. Doreen Vaughn Recognized as 2025-2026 RULH Teacher of the Year
Congratulations to Mrs. Doreen Vaughn for being recognized as the 2025-2026 RULH Teacher of the Year!
Miss Vaughn was recognized on Tuesday, November 3rd, at the Brown County In-Service Day held at Western Brown High School. This honor is a tremendous reflection of the impact she has made throughout her teaching career at RULH Elementary.
Miss Vaughn is a true representation of what it means to be a Blue Jay. She has dedicated countless hours to serving others, especially her kindergarten students, and has always gone above and beyond to make a difference in the lives of children. She is a team player who consistently supports her colleagues, lends a helping hand, and gives so much of herself to our students and staff.
Thank you, Mrs. Vaughn, for all you do for RULH Local Schools. We are proud to call you a Blue Jay!
RULH Ag Mechanics Students Earn Industry Credentials!
Congratulations to the RULH Ag Mechanics students on earning their Aerial Work Platform Industry Credentials! On Friday, October 30th, twelve students from Mr. Foster’s Ag Mechanics class traveled to Bobcat Enterprises, Inc. Training Center to complete their Aerial Work Platform industry certification. To earn this credential, students were required to successfully complete both classroom instruction and hands-on lift operations training using boom lifts and scissor lifts.
All 12 students successfully passed their assessments and earned their industry credentials!
Following their successful completion, students had the opportunity to continue practicing their lift operation skills. Several students even demonstrated their confidence and courage by taking the boom lift an impressive 88 feet into the air!
This experience provided the students with valuable hands-on training, real-world skills, and industry-recognized credentials that will benefit them as they explore future career opportunities. Congratulations to all 12 students, and thanks to Mr. Foster and Bobcat Enterprises for providing this outstanding learning opportunity!
RULH FFA Members Excel at District Job Interview Contest
Two members of the RULH Jr./Sr. High School FFA Chapter earned outstanding honors at the District Job Interview Contest held at Miami Trace High School on Wednesday, November 4. Xaylie Brierly earned an impressive third-place finish in the Junior High Division, while Gabby Himes captured first place in the Senior Division, earning the title of District Champion. Makynli Hauke, Jenna Wilkins and Teagan Michael also competed in the contest.
With her first-place finish, Himes has qualified to advance to the State Job Interview Contest, where she will represent RULH and compete against other top FFA members from across Ohio.
The FFA Job Interview Contest provides students with an opportunity to develop and demonstrate essential career-readiness skills, including résumé preparation, professional communication, interviewing techniques, and workplace professionalism. Both students demonstrated tremendous dedication and preparation in representing their school and FFA chapter at the district level.
RULH Local Schools congratulates Xaylie and Gabby on their outstanding accomplishments and wishes Gabby the best of luck as she advances to state competition.
RULH Theatre Presents "A Family Reunion to Die For" (Nov. 7th & 8th)
The RULH Jr./Sr. High School Theatre Department is preparing to bring an entertaining combination of mystery, comedy, and family drama to the stage with its upcoming production of A Family Reunion to Die For, written by Matt and Mike Steele.
The production promises an evening filled with unexpected twists, surprising secrets, and plenty of laughter as a family gathering takes a series of unpredictable turns. With a storyline featuring mystery, humor, and family relationships, the play is sure to keep audience members entertained and guessing throughout the performance.
The talented RULH student cast and crew are preparing to bring this unique theatrical experience to life, showcasing their creativity, dedication, and performance skills.
RULH Local Schools encourages students, families, staff, and community members to come out and support the school's theater program while enjoying an evening of live entertainment.
After all, every family has its secrets, but some are truly to die for! Together We Soar!
RULH Students Apply Real-World Math Skills Through Classroom Renovation Project
Students in Mrs. Beth Carrington's Advanced Quantitative Reasoning class at RULH Jr./Sr. High School recently put their math skills into action through a hands-on classroom renovation project.
Students were challenged to design a renovation of their classroom by measuring surface areas, converting measurements, and creating scale-model blueprints. They also researched materials, compared unit prices, and calculated costs for paint, carpeting, and other classroom improvements.
Using artificial intelligence (AI), students generated images of their proposed classroom designs. Next they developed written renovation proposals and presented their projects to classmates through PowerPoint presentations. Following the presentations, students completed an assessment demonstrating their understanding of the mathematical concepts involved.
The project provided valuable real-world experience in measurement, budgeting, problem-solving, and technology. The classroom teacher expressed great pride in the students' creativity, hard work, and dedication throughout the assignment. Together We Soar!
RULH First Graders Learn About Bats During Special Classroom Visit
First-grade students at RULH Elementary School recently enjoyed a special educational visit from Danielle Thompson of the Brown County Soil and Water Conservation District.
During the visit, Thompson shared interesting facts about bats, including the different species, their diets, and the habitats where they live. Students were especially excited to have the opportunity to observe a preserved bat up close, providing a unique hands-on learning experience. The engaging presentation allowed students to learn more about these fascinating creatures while developing a greater appreciation for wildlife and the environment.
RULH Elementary School extends its appreciation to Danielle Thompson and the Brown County Soil and Water Conservation District for taking the time to provide this fun and informative learning opportunity for its first-grade students.
Together We Soar!
RULH Jr./Sr. High School Library Recognizes Spooktacular Event Winners
The RULH Jr./Sr. High School Library recently announced the winners of its 2026 Spooktacular Library Event. Seventh-grade student Addie Welch and sophomore Jaxyn Applegate were selected as the lucky winners of this year's drawing. Both students are frequent library visitors who have demonstrated a strong appreciation for reading. Each received a gift bag filled with candy and snacks, a Palm Pal stuffed animal, and a free book of their choice. Mrs. Asbury and Mrs. Armstrong expressed their appreciation to both students for their continued enthusiasm for reading and support of the school library.
The library is also preparing for its next promotional event, “The Gift Unwrap of Reading,” which begins December 1. Students who visit the library and check out a book will have the opportunity to enter a drawing for a chance to win an early Christmas present.
RULH Jr./Sr. High School congratulates Addie and Jaxyn on their recognition and thanks all students who participated in the Spooktacular event. The library looks forward to encouraging even more students to discover the joy of reading through its upcoming December celebration.
Together We Soar!
Alex Nash Qualifies for OHSAA State Cross Country Meet!
Alex Nash is STATE BOUND in cross country! Please check out the graphic below for details. Thank you! Go Alex! Blue Jay PRIDE!
Fall Athletes Earn OHSAA Southeast District Awards
The OHSAA Southeast District recently announced their All-District cross country and soccer teams. The Blue Jays and Lady Jays who earned this recognition are pictured below. BLUE JAY PRIDE!
New Teacher Intro: Jesstina Downing
Each week the News from the Nest will have a new teacher introduction! RULH welcomes Ms. Jesstina Downing!
RULH MCJROTC Cadets Announce Upcoming Military Ball
The RULH Jr./Sr. High School Marine Corps Junior ROTC (MCJROTC) program is preparing for its upcoming Military Ball, scheduled for Saturday, November 14th. Tickets are now available for purchase from MCJROTC cadets for $20 each. The event will feature a catered meal provided by Mission BBQ.
This year's special Guest of Honor will be Josh Franklin, a Ripley alumnus and MCJROTC plank holder, recognizing his status as one of the program's original members.
The Military Ball provides an opportunity for cadets to celebrate the traditions, accomplishments, and camaraderie of the MCJROTC program. RULH Local Schools looks forward to a memorable evening celebrating its cadets and the proud traditions of the MCJROTC program.
Together We Soar!
RULH Elementary & RULH Jr./Sr. High School to Hold Veteran's Day Programs
Please read the flyers below for information about the Veteran's Day Programs to be held at RULH Elementary and RULH Jr./Sr. High School. Thank you!
RULH Elementary Names New "ABC/100 Club" Members
Congratulations to the newest members of the "ABC/100 Club" at RULH Elementary! Blue Jay Pride!
RULH Elementary Names "Go Green" Students of the Week
Congratulations to the "Go Green" Students of the Week"!
RULH Locals Schools Announces All "A" and "A/B" Honor Rolls for First Nine Weeks
The Ripley Union Lewis Huntington School District would like to announce the following students from grades 1 - 12 that earned a place on the 1st nine weeks’ ALL “A” or "A/B" honor roll for the 2026-2027 school year.
"ALL A" HONOR ROLL:
Elementary School
1st grade – Adrik Ayala, Axl Bolar, Samuel Gabbard, Rylan Lainhart, Reese McCleese, Eileigh Moran, Fable Ogzewalla, Rowan Patrick, Elliott Reveal, Riley Richardson and Oliver Ward;
2nd grade – Brandon Connor, Tatum England, Carmen Grayson, Cleatous Gross, Nova Hacker, Skarlette Hall, Waylon Hampton, Jedidiah Hutchinson, Maverick Jones, Bradley Leis, Danielle Lupercio, Ansleigh Moore, Leon Norris, Joey Osborne, Aria Ruark, Ashton Ruark, Emori Setty, Marvin Sheffield, Clover Stinson, Chandler Suerdick, Liliana Washington and Xander Thomas;
3rd grade - Adileah Frye, Adrian Hasenstab and Michael Peterson;
4th grade - Izabella Hopper, Waylan Human and Nathan Oberschlake;
5th grade – Gabe Covert, Quantrell Hayes, Aubrey Maddox and Ayden Philhower;
6th grade – Josie Huff, Scarlette Norris, Werner Polley and Layla White.
Jr. High School
7th grade - Xaylie Brierly, Londyn McFadden, Teagan Michael, Layla Sword, Ryland Tharp and Mya Westgerdes;
8th grade – Dylan Leonard, Leah Poe, Blake Schumann and Victoria Smith.
Sr. High School
9th Grade – Alayna Cornette and Asher Polley;
10th Grade – Laney Bare, Gracyn Beckelhymer, Landon Dickhaus, Logan Fisher, Destin Fulton, Makynli Hauke, Elli Hedges, Logan Meeker, John Paul Saunders, Hunter Scott, Myles Siegel, Bryston Tharp, Elizabeth Titus and Jenna Wilkins;
11th Grade – Brooklyn Ayers, Braven Ellison, Aubree May, Marley Mitchell and Sadie Strunk;
12th Grade – Giovanni Lackey, Jase Lang and Olivia Smith.
"A/B" HONOR ROLL:
Elementary School
1st grade – Octoberlynn Baker, Waylon Baker, Cody Barnes-Waibel, Kenslee Benjamin, Marlie Childers, Elizabeth Danner, Alaya Gillman, Ayceton Hensley, Adalynn Meece, Ryker Patrick, Eva Sprecher, Greyson Stevens, Jaiden Stewart, Rhys Thomas, Avlynn Umsteadt and Journee Wallace;
2nd grade - Finn Archey, Bentley Brookbank, Jonah Childers, Bayleigh Cooper, Alice Day, Kadon Flaugher, Layla Frodge, Derek Gruette, Charlie Gulley, Kinsley King, Acelyn McCrea, Kiarra Richmond-Gordon, Porter Smith, Alma Toller and Ensley West;
3rd grade – Laylynn Davis, Harper Goins, Hunter Hamilton, Cayonna Hampton, Crew Henschen, George Hertlein, Zoie Jolley, Natalie Jones, Kyllian Kimball, Shaelynn Meece, Rhett Reveal, Karsyn Seipelt, Mason Smalley, Rian Swanger, Mercy Thackston, Bentley Whitt, Lacey Wiechman and Natalie Yeager;
4th grade - James Barnes-Waibel, Elizabeth Bonine, Reagan Carter, Lincoln Donovan, Wyatt Donovan, Jameson England, Piper Gulley, Quinn Hutchinson, Mia Lawson, Emilia Lucia, Iris Mitchell, Addyson Moore, Audrina Ruark, Kensley Smith, Adilei Turner, Brayden Whitt and Bryson Wolfer;
5th Grade – Elana Adae, Leland Benjamin, Ian Blackburn, Xander Boone, Harper Brown, Kenley Burns, AJ Connor, Carter Day, Parker England, Maddie Fossett, Parker Fulton, Aubreigh Hamm, Mary Harris, Kynslee Henschen, McKinsley Jones, Elaine King, Riley Maney, Trenton Ondrey, Emma Osborne, Khaleesi Phillips, Korie Price, Darius Richmond, Aleaha Silvers, Braxton Thomas, Beau Weatherspoon and Jayden Westgerdes;
6th Grade – Emma Barnes-Waibel, Paisley Cornette, Bella Cunningham, Brendan Finley, Zoey Oberschlake, Lilly Osborne, Axton Stephens and Ava Williams.
Jr. High School
7th Grade – Spencer Ackley, Belle Bare, Lucee Bauer, Ryder Blevins, Brenden Brandstutter, Paisley Brizendine, Landon Brown, Carolina Cable, Rayanna Carter, Jackson Cheney, Kinley Cline, John Cotton, Carter Hamm, Ayden Hornschemeier, Noah Maddox, Tyson McCann, Clayton Nickell, Fallon Scott, Matthew Smalley and Sophia Titus;
8th Grade - Meranda Bennett, Allison Cornette, Maylynn Elmore, Peyton Jodrey, Daisy Jones, Jason Kilgore, Karsyn Kimball, Shia Lupercio, Presley McQueen, Joshua Miller, Gracelyn Moore, Mason Scott, Tyler Sharp and Tucker Weatherspoon.
Sr. High School
9th Grade – Zakaria Belasri, Carter Bolar, Mariah Brossart, LeeAunna Dodson, Jonathan Hopper, Garrett Ondrey, Ajanai Reese and Elliot Smith;
10th Grade – Jaxyn Applegate, Matthew Cooper, Landon Corde, Kaelyn Davis, Paige Forsee, Hailey Gatliff, Harley Johnson, Baylee Reese, Alexandra Sellers and Alyssa Tucker;
11th Grade – Aiden Bolar, Aubrey Glover, Landon Kirk, Dacoda Lyons, Arianna Scott and Gavan Smith;
12th Grade - Lindsay DeAtley, Skylar Hare, Gabrielle Himes, Conner Lomax, Tristan Lynch, Julia Perez Angles, Joseph Tumey, Samantha Ward and Kiana White.
National Honor Society Holding Fundraiser
Please read below for information about the National Honor Society fundraiser.
Click the link below to place your order:
Guidance Deptartment Announces Dates for College Credit Plus Info Session
Ms. Cheyenne Phillips, RULH Jr,/Sr. High School Counselor, has announced the date for the annual College Credit Plus Information Session. The event will take place on Tuesday, November 17th, at 6:00 p.m. in the RULH Jr./Sr. High School Cafeteria. Please read the flyer below for more information.
RULH High School FCCLA to Hold Annual Canned Food Drive
The annual RULH High School FCCLA Canned Food Drive began on Thursday, October 15th. The FCCLA's goal is to collect more than 2000 items this year for for the RULH School Pantry. Please read the flyer below for details on how to participate!
- Polly Spiller – Junior High Intervention Specialist (November 6th)
- Molly Carson - Elementary School 4th Grade Teacher (November 7th)
- Justin Cluxton – Junior High Agriculture Teacher (November 9th)
- Grace Smith - High School Social Studies Teacher
- Joe Pfeffer - Elementary Principal (November 10th)
- Betsy Drake - School Psychologist (November 11th)
- Kim Stauffer – Board of Education Member (November 15th)
- Jaki Royal - Wasserman Teacher (November 17th)
- Gabe Scott – Elementary Physical Education Teacher (November 18th)
- Mary Hermann - (November 30th)
RULH Events - Friday, November 6th through Saturday, November 14th
Friday, November 6th
No events scheduled
Saturday, November 7th
State Cross Country Championship - 4:00 PM
RULH Theatre performance of "A Family Reunion to Die For" - 7:00 PM to 9:00 PM
Sunday, November 8th
RULH Theatre performance of "A Family Reunion to Die For" - 3:00 PM to 5:00 PM
Monday, November 9
Lady Jays Basketball (Scrimmage - Away) VS Paint Valley 6:00 PM – 9:00 PM
Tuesday, November 10th
No events scheduled
Wednesday, November 11th
No events scheduled
Thursday, November 12th
No events scheduled
Friday, November 13th
Interim Reports Issued
Lady Jays Basketball (Away) SHAC Preview @ West Union - 5:00 PM – 10:00 PM
Saturday, November 14th
HS Boys Basketball @ Frankfort, KY Scrimmage (Over Night Trip)