Parent's Guide to Spirit Week
October 23rd-30th
From Olivia Whitney, Student Body President
This year, we’re focusing our efforts on supporting Defenders For Children. A local non-profit organization, that works with K-9's that are able to sniff out electronics containing child exploitation material. The money we raise this spirit week will go directly towards training new K-9's that will be able to help track down devices with exploitative material. Without this funding, many child exploitation cases may go unsolved lacking the evidence that the K-9's are able to find. By uniting as a community, we can help fill this gap and give Defenders For Children the support they need to help others.
There’s nothing quite like Spirit Week at Riverside. It’s a time when we come together to make a tangible impact. By supporting Defenders For Children, we’re not just getting K-9's through there training; we’re changing lives. Thank you for your support, generosity, and enthusiasm. Let’s make this Spirit Week one to remember!
From Tiffany Whitney, Mom of the Student Body President
Dear RHS Parents,
It’s almost go time for one of the most exciting weeks of the year! During the entire month of October, RHS will be buzzing with excitement, engaging activities, creativity, and a whole lot of heart as our students take on the challenge of raising funds for Defenders for Children. This year, they're focusing on making a meaningful difference in the lives of children living right here in our community. Defenders for Children strives to prevent, protect, and rescue children from child abuse. The impact we can make is huge, and it’s all thanks to the support and enthusiasm from our amazing community—yes, that means you!
Here’s a quick guide to help you and your student navigate the week:
Budget Smart: Set a clear budget for your student to manage their participation in October. It’s a great way for them to learn how to prioritize and keep things in check, and it’ll save you from unexpected requests for cash!
Embrace the Fun Without the Funds: Many activities are completely free—think pep rallies and dress-up days. Encourage your student to get creative with what they already have, find some gems from friends/family, or a local thrift store. It’s all about the spirit of supporting our community, not the spend!
Plan Ahead for Success: Encourage your student to connect with their teachers the week before Spirit Week to gather assignments and get ahead on their work. This way, they can fully immerse themselves in all the fun without worrying about school deadlines.
Keep the Calendar Handy: With activities every day and a special event each night, staying organized will be key. Make sure to check your emails and print out the calendar so nothing slips through the cracks.
Get the Whole Family Involved: Spirit Week is a community affair! Whether it's attending events or cheering from the sidelines, there’s a role for everyone. And if you’re feeling extra spirited, consider chaperoning—it's a great way to meet other parents and RHS faculty all while seeing the fun firsthand.
Make a Bigger Impact: If you or your company are in a position to become a sponsor, donate an item towards the Silent Auction, or contribute in any way, don’t hesitate to reach out. Every contribution counts, and the resulting impact is transformative.
Speaking of community spirit, don’t miss our Parent Night event: Riverside Round-Up: Chili Cook-Off on October 4th from 4pm-7pm. You still have time to register your chili team for the contest and purchase tickets. It’s going to be an unforgettable night with delicious chili, BBQ, sides, live music, and great company all for a fantastic cause. Every attendee will have a chance to vote in the People’s Choice Award for who has the best chili on the Reservation. Come as you are or in Western attire with the spirit of supporting Defenders for Children.
For those new to Spirit Week, welcome to the RHS family! Don’t hesitate to ask questions—there’s a whole community here to support you. Our student events are school-approved and chaperoned, so rest assured, your students are in good hands. Last year’s haunted halls was a standout event, with the students going all out, fully embracing their characters to create a thrilling and fun experience for everyone involved. It’s just one example of the incredible spirit and dedication our students bring to Spirit Week.
There are SignUp links for donations, event setups, and more below. Your time, talents, and generosity make all of this possible. Watching our students and the RHS community rally together for such a worthy cause is nothing short of inspiring.
Let’s make this Spirit Week the best one yet! Let’s Goooooo Warriors!
This year, Student Council selected Defenders for Children as the Spirit Week beneficiary. Defenders for Children is a nonprofit organization dedicated to protecting children from abuse, exploitation, and trafficking. One of their main programs provides specially trained Electronic Detection K9s to law enforcement agencies. These dogs are trained to locate hidden electronic devices, such as cell phones, USB drives, memory cards, and other storage devices, that may contain evidence of crimes against children. By helping investigators find devices that could otherwise be difficult to locate, these K9s can play an important role in identifying victims, gathering evidence, and bringing offenders to justice.
Beyond their K9 program, Defenders for Children works to educate law enforcement and communities about child exploitation, trafficking, and online safety. They provide resources, training, and support to help professionals better respond to cases involving children and raise awareness about ways communities can help prevent abuse and exploitation. Through fundraising and community partnerships, the organization works to give law enforcement the tools they need while creating greater awareness and protection for children.
You may also donate via Venmo! If you'd like to make a cash or check donation, you may visit the front office to drop off your donation.
If you'd like more information about making a donation, please contact Hunter Logan at hlogan@greenville.k12.sc.us. Mrs. Logan will help connect you directly with the Defenders for Children.
We are offering prepaid breakfast, lunch, or breakfast & lunch combo options. See the graphic attached for more details. After purchasing a wristband, students will need complete a Google Form collecting their lunch shift and choices on days that have multiple options. People with wristbands will pick their meals up from a separate line. Wristband sales end Monday, October 12th. Wristband pickup begins Wednesday, October 14th in the Counseling Office.
Pay for your wristband on School Cash Online or with exact cash or a check to Mrs. Logan.
The Law Offices of Perry B. DeLoach, Jr.
A Greenville law firm providing legal representation for personal injury and accident cases, DUI and criminal defense, wrongful death, and other civil and appellate matters throughout South Carolina.
Reedy Property Group
A full-service real estate company offering property management, residential and commercial real estate, land sales, and investment services throughout the Southeast.
All Creatures Great and Small Animal Hospital
A full-service veterinary hospital providing preventative, medical, dental, diagnostic, and surgical care for dogs and cats in the Greenville area.
Reeves Construction Company
A regional construction company specializing in road, highway, bridge, asphalt paving, site development, and other large-scale infrastructure projects throughout the Southeast.
Our Darling Doodles
A family-run Goldendoodle breeder in Easley, SC, raising healthy, well-socialized puppies and helping families find their perfect new companion.
4Life Fitness Studio
A personal training studio offering individualized and semi-private fitness coaching, strength training, and nutrition support in a welcoming, personalized environment.