Bears Newsletter, Week of 9/21/26

Chronic absenteeism is defined as missing ten percent or more of the academic year for any reason, including excused absences, unexcused absences, and suspensions. Based on a 180-day school year, that means approximately 18 days per year or 2 to 3 days per month. Regular attendance is a significant factor in a student’s success.

Our goal will continue to be less than 15% for the 2026-2027 school year.

Please visit the VDOE website for more information.

As we prepare for the upcoming school year, we want to take a moment to emphasize the importance of our instructional days and how vital consistent attendance is to student success. (Instructional Calendar 26-27). We understand that absences may occasionally be unavoidable, but we ask that families make every effort to schedule appointments, trips, or other commitments outside of the school day or during scheduled breaks. Consistent attendance not only supports student achievement, but also contributes to a positive and connected school environment.

Reminder: All schools and offices will be closed on Monday, September 21 in observance of Yom Kippur. Enjoy the long weekend!

Are you curious about a career in public safety and community service? Join the Office of CTE for a Career Chat with Spotsy Fire, Rescue, and Emergency Management on Tuesday, September 29 during Bear Block.

This is a great opportunity to learn more about careers at Spotsylvania County Fire, Rescue, and Emergency Management and discover how you can serve your community while building a rewarding future.

Please contact our Career Readiness Paraprofessional, Ms. Gray, to sign up.

Are you curious about a career in a fast-paced, high-demand field of Respiratory Therapy? Join the Office of CTE for a Career Chat with Mary Washington Healthcare on Friday, October 2 during Bear Block.

This is a great opportunity to learn more about careers at Mary Washington Healthcare and discover how you can serve your community while building a rewarding future.

Please contact our Career Readiness Paraprofessional, Ms. Gray, to sign up.

Tickets for our upcoming HoCo Dance are officially open! Please register for your ticket as soon as possible to ensure you don't miss out.

Before securing your spot, please double check that you are a Bear in Good Standing.

• Guest Forms must be submitted by 3:00 pm on Wednesday, September 23.
• Registration closes at 3:00 pm on Wednesday, September 30.
• Ticket sales closes at 3:00 pm on Thursday, October 1.

Not in good standing? You (the student) may submit your appeal here.

Riverbend’s Homecoming Bonfire takes place in the field beside our stadium. We will have music, food trucks, and performances by the school band and cheerleaders.

Riverbend’s Homecoming Football Game will be vs. Hartwood High School

Riverbend’s Homecoming Dance will be held in the commons and gymnasium! The theme is still a mystery but stay tuned for clues! Tickets for the homecoming dance will go on sale to Bears in Good Standing beginning on Monday, September 14. The cost of the homecoming ticket will be $20.00 per student.

Students must register for the Homecoming Dance by 3:00 pm on Wednesday, September 30.

Tickets must be purchased for the Homecoming Dance by 3:00 pm on Thursday, October 1.

More information regarding the Homecoming Dance, as well as links to register, purchase tickets, and submit guest forms will be shared at a later date.

Students may bring a guest to homecoming provided that they meet the following criteria:
1. They must be at least in 9th grade, and can be no older than 20 years of age.
2. Your guest may not be a Riverbend student. All RHS students must register, be a Bear in Good Standing, and purchase their own ticket.
3. Your guest must be in good standing at their school.
4. Guest Forms must be submitted by 3:00 pm on Wednesday, September 23.

In order to attend specific school events, such as homecoming and prom, all students must be considered a Bear in Good Standing. Being a Bear in Good Standing requires students to meet attendance, conduct and academic standards. In addition, students must not have any outstanding debts on their student accounts.

• More than 4 absences (excused or unexcused) at the time of your registration.
• More than 8 unexcused tardies to school at the time of your registration.
• Any discipline infractions which have resulted in Out of School Suspension (OSS) for Quarter 1.
• Any outstanding debts on your student account.

Not in good standing? You (the student) may submit your appeal here.

Students who have accumulated more than 4 absences or more than 8 tardies to school may see their administrator for attendance recovery options. Attendance recovery must be completed by Friday, September 25 in order to register for the dance.

Spotsylvania County Public Schools will administer a survey for students called Renaissance Fundamentals. All students, in grades 1st through 11th will be invited to participate. Information collected from the Renaissance Fundamentals survey will allow our school team to proactively address non-academic barriers to learning, which can compromise the wellbeing and academic success of our students. While student participation is voluntary, the information will help us better understand and provide support to your student.

The short engagement survey is focused on the following nine factors:

1. Feeling about school

2. Perceived learning capability

3. Self-regard as a learner

4. Preparedness for learning

5. Attitude of teachers

6. General work ethic

7. Confidence in learning

8. Attitudes of school attendance

9. Response to curriculum demands

Students are scheduled to take the survey on Wednesday, September 23 and again during the second semester. If you have any questions about the purpose of the survey or wish to opt your child out from completing the survey, please contact your child’s school counseling office prior to September 18th.

Letters: English | Spanish | Pashto

In honor of the Class of 2027, help the RHS PTSA reach 127 members by September 27! Join today and help us reach our goal!

• Join online: https://riverbend.givebacks.com/shop
• Download the form and return to the main office: RHS PTSA Form 26-27

The Riverbend High School PTSA is seeking volunteers and donations for the 2026 Homecoming Dance on Saturday, October 3, from 7:30 pm to 10:30 pm. The PTSA will provide refreshments and coat/shoe check services. Please deliver donated items to the front office by Wednesday, September 30; please note that we cannot accept sticky candy.

How to Support:

• Volunteer or Donate Items: Please use our SignUpGenius link: https://www.signupgenius.com/go/10C0A4FA8AA2DA0F5C61-65471246-homecoming
• Monetary Donations: Enter the amount on SignUpGenius and submit payment via MemberHub at https://riverbend.givebacks.com/shop/items/1097986
• Cash/Check: Payments payable to RHS PTSA may be delivered to the school office in an envelope labeled “PTSA Homecoming”.

Thank you for helping make Homecoming a success!

Do you know a high school junior with big ideas, strong leadership skills, and a passion for making a difference? Spotsylvania County Public Schools is officially accepting applications for the 2027 Student School Board Member position.

This unique leadership role gives students a seat at the table to represent their peers and share the student perspective directly with school district leaders.

• Target Audience: Current high school juniors

• Application & Info: Review qualifications, timeline, and the application on the SCPS Student Board Member Page

• Deadline: September 30, 2026

Congratulations to Madi H. of the Varsity Cross Country team on being selected as Riverbend's Athlete of the Week!

Madi has had an outstanding week and continues to show what it means to be an exceptional student-athlete. Her dedication, determination, and positive attitude shine through in everything she does.

This past week, Madi stood out through her Academic Excellence, Sportsmanship and Leadership, while also delivering an outstanding athletic performance. She brings tremendous effort to every practice and competition and is always willing to encourage and support her teammates.

Madi’s commitment to excellence, both on and off the course, makes her a fantastic representative of our athletic program. Her hard work and leadership do not go unnoticed!

Congratulations, Madi! We are proud to recognize you as Riverbend's Athlete of the Week!

Please join us on Wednesday, September 23 @ Chipotle from 5 pm to 9 pm to support the RHS Volleyball. We hope to see you there!

Spotsylvania County Public Schools will host its annual fall recruitment event on Thursday, October 1, 2026, from 5:00 pm to 7:00 pm.

Aptly named for this season, the Fall Fast Track Hiring Event is a unique opportunity for candidates to “get in the fast lane” and meet with our hiring teams regarding open positions here at SCPS. We are looking for individuals with a bachelor's degree who may be interested in teaching or serving in another licensed position within our organization. We are also looking for individuals who want to serve in a support role where a bachelor’s degree is not required. Several of our schools will be represented by administrators during the event, and our Human Resources Licensure Coordinator will be there to answer questions regarding the steps required to obtain a Virginia teaching license. Additionally, our Substitute Staffing Specialist will hold information sessions throughout the night for those who may want to consider becoming a substitute teacher in our division.

Participants are encouraged to apply online and pre-register using this link. Walk-ins are always welcome! Please refer to this flyer for more details.

We hope to see you there!

For arrival, parent drivers will enter through the main entrance, turn right and follow the arrows. Student drivers will continue straight through the main entrance and follow the directions of the staff member directing traffic. The entrance on Spotswood Furnace Lane will be closed from approximately 7:15 am to 7:30 am to help support getting our bus drivers to their next route.

Welcome to a new year of AP classes. Teachers are busy getting students enrolled in their sections of AP Classroom and students have begun to decide on whether they will be taking the AP exams for their courses.

Here are some details regarding the AP exams for this school year:

• Cost: $99 per exam - The amount may be paid in full or you can put down a $40 deposit.
• This initial payment must be made by October 9, 2026.
• After this date, there will be an additional $40 late fee per exam added.
• The final balance will need to be paid by December 18, 2026. Any balances due not paid in full by this date will result in the exam(s) being cancelled and a $40 cancellation fee will be applied.

• Other fees:

• Cancellation fee - $40 per exam; any exams cancelled November - March

• Unused Exam fee - $40 per exam; for any exams not used after March

How to sign up/pay for the AP exams: Either parent/guardian or student can see Mrs. Bohnstedt in the Counseling office to fill out the AP Order Form and make their payment. The payment can be made by cash, check, ApplePay, or credit card (processing fee will be added for electronic payments). There is NO online payment available for AP exams.

AP Exam Dates for 2026-2027 (Please click this link to see the dates for the AP exams in the Spring. Remember to add them on your calendar.)

If you have any questions about the courses or exams, please reach out to your child’s AP teacher directly.

Riverbend High School is committed to addressing parent and guardian concerns in a timely, respectful, and collaborative manner. Please review the attached Parent/Guardian Complaint Resolution Process for information on how to share concerns and work toward resolution.

Please encourage your child to check their grades in StudentVUE at least once each week to identify and address any missing assignments or concerns early.

Students should also check their school email daily, as important information and updates are shared throughout the week.

Tuesday, September 22 - Virginia Tech

Friday, September 25 - George Washington University and Hollins University

Tuesday, September 29 - Catholic University

Please sign up during Bear Block.

5:00 pm Fr Volleyball vs Colonial Forge @ Colonial Forge High School

5:00 pm JV Volleyball vs Colonial Forge @ Colonial Forge High School

6:00 pm Varsity Field Hockey vs Colonial Forge @ Colonial Forge High School

6:30 pm Varsity Volleyball vs Colonial Forge @ Colonial Forge High School

4:00 pm Boys & Girls Cross Country Commonwealth Districts @ Brooke Point High School

6:00 pm JV Football vs Brooke Point @ Brooke Point High School

5:00 pm JV Volleyball vs Brooke Point @ Riverbend High School

6:00 pm Varsity Field Hockey vs Brooke Point @ Riverbend High School

6:30 pm Varsity Volleyball vs Brooke Point @ Riverbend High School

SHOP DETAILS

- Sprint Shop Now: https://bsnteamsports.com/shop/BendBears2
- Store Open until October 30, 2026

-Sprint Shop Now: https://bsnteamsports.com/shop/RHSbendEmb

-Store Open Until October 26, 2026

Go Bears!!!

To ensure consistent practices for 2026-2027, all SCPS high schools will follow the cell phone guidelines listed below during the instructional school day:

• During the school day, all students should be focused on instruction and appropriate social interactions.

• Personal electronic devices are to be silenced and out of sight during the entire school day (7:35 am to 2:20 pm).

• No earbuds/AirPods/headphones may be in sight during the entire school day.

• Smart watches may be used as watches, however if used as a communication device will be a violation of the new cell phone policy.

• Students may NOT use their smartphone/cell phone:

1. during class change

2. during lunchtime

3. during Bear Block Study Halls & Study Hall

• Students may use their smartphone/cell phone after school starting at 2:20 pm.

1st Violation:

• Warning from administrator
• Administrator or SSO collects the phone
• Student can pick up the phone at the end of the day

2nd Violation:

• Warning from administrator
• Administrator or SSO collects the phone
• Parent/Guardian must pick up the phone at the end of the day

3rd Violation:

• Discipline Referral
• Administrator or SSO collects the phone
• Parent/Guardian must pick up the phone
• Student attends a full day of ISS

4th+ Violation:

• Discipline Referral - Refusal to comply
• Administrator or SSO collects the phone
• Parent/Guardian must pick up the phone

To further enhance the safety of our students and staff, Spotsylvania County Public Schools will continue to implement the EVOLV Detection System at Riverbend High School. This system will screen students and visitors for potential weapons.

Students and guests will walk through the EVOLV screening detector upon entry. Students and guests must remove the following BLUE items:

• Binders
• Laptops
• Umbrella
• Eyeglass cases

All other items (e.g., backpacks, instrument cases, purses, gym bags, water bottles) should be carried through the detector for screening. The process is simple, with staff members available to assist.

Students are expected to arrive early to allow enough time to pass through the EVOLV systems and be in class on time.

Resources:

• EVOLV 2025
• Evolv Express Privacy and Data Security Document
• Evolv Health & Safety Document
• Parent/Guardian Guide

To be a Bear in Good Standing, students must meet minimum expectations in three areas:

• Attendance

• Behavior

• Grades

Students who are not meeting these expectations, and thus are not in good standing, will not be allowed certain privileges until the problem areas have improved.

The RHS PTSA is looking for your support. Your membership allows us to continue programs that fund homecoming, after-prom, scholarships for graduating seniors, and hospitality events for our teachers and staff.

There are additional ways to support the PTSA, including purchasing a Bear Card for discounts at local businesses, buying a Riverbend magnet, or donating directly to any of our programs.

Please click the links below to support our PTSA. Membership forms are also available in the school's main office or can be downloaded here: RHS Membership Form 26-27

The RHS PTSA Bear Card is a fundraiser that supports some of our community business partners.

- Cost: $10 until October 1st ($15 after)
- Expires: 8/31/2027

Credit Card Order Form: https://www.givebacks.com/shop/stores/9c63f485-03f6-4d95-b1ef-9f4e36f5ae16/items/129262

Check or Cash Order Form: https://drive.google.com/file/d/1PZhIaVSxq_iHsi7PqtL6oUIY1o1Kilwe/view

2026-2027 Bear Card Participants:

• Affogato Europa Cafe: 10% off any purchase - https://affogatoeuropacafe.com/ (4125 Plank Rd, Fredericksburg, VA 22407)
• El Gran Charro: 10% off (cannot be combined with other discounts; alcohol not included) - https://elgrancharrova.net/ (5825 Plank Rd, Suite 101, Fredericksburg, VA 22407)
• Homemade: 10% off any purchase - https://www.homemadebrunch.com/ (7019 Harrison Road, Suite 109 Fredericksburg, VA 22407)
• Jersey Mike's: Free 22oz drink and chips with purchase of any size sub - https://www.jerseymikes.com/6062/fredericksburg-va (5635 Plank Rd, Suite 109, Fredericksburg, VA 22407)
• Kokee Tea: 10% off any drink - https://www.kokeetea.com/ (1672 Carl D Silver Pkwy, Fredericksburg, VA 22401)
• Long John Silvers: $5 off family meal / $2 off platter meal - https://www.ljsilvers.com/locations/va/fredericksburg/5167-plank-rd/ (5167 Plank Rd, Fredericksburg, VA 22407)
• Primo Car Wash: $10 off $20 Ultimate Wash (8am-5pm) - https://www.primocarwash.com/ (5807 Plank Rd, Fredericksburg, VA 22407)
• Subway: Buy any footlong for $7.99 (cannot combine with any offer; excludes 5 meat Italian, wraps, snacks, etc.). One use per day. www.subway.com (5769 Plank Rd, Fredericksburg, VA 22407)
• Tropical Smoothie Cafe: 10% off smoothie - https://locations.tropicalsmoothiecafe.com/va/fredericksburg/5705-plank-road (5705 Plank Road, Fredericksburg, VA 22407)
• George’s Pizza: Small fry with any purchase - https://georgespizzaplace.com/ (5306 Plank Rd, Fredericksburg, VA 22407)

You will need the County’s code (86784) AND each of your student’s ID numbers. This ID number is found in ParentVUE / Student Info / Perm ID. For more information, click here.

Students who are 16 years of age or older are eligible to receive their second dose of the meningococcal (MCV4/MenACWY) vaccine.

Once your student receives the vaccine, please submit an updated immunization record by one of the following methods:

• Email: rwade@spotsylvania.k12.va.us
• In person: Submit the record to the front office for the school nurse.

All immunization records must be up to date prior to the start of school for in-person learning.

Families who qualify for a religious exemption may obtain the appropriate form from the county website. The original form must be notarized (stamped/sealed) and submitted to the school nurse prior to the first day of school.

If you have questions, please contact Nurse Wade via email.

Students, teachers, and staff who have symptoms of a respiratory virus can protect others by staying home when sick. Those who have been sick can return to school when, for at least 24 hours, both of these are true:

• Their symptoms are getting better overall, AND

• They have not had a fever (and are not using a fever-reducing medication such as acetaminophen or ibuprofen)

A negative covid test is not required because individuals may test positive for up to 90 days post infection. The CDC recommends that masks be worn after Covid-19 infections, but they are not required.

For current guidelines on respiratory illnesses, please refer to the following link for guidance.

On SCPS website under health services, there are additional resources listed:

• Health Services
• Current CDC guidelines
• Current Respiratory virus guidelines

ASVAB Test

The Armed Services Vocational Aptitude Battery (ASVAB) is a multiple-aptitude battery that measures developed abilities and helps predict future academic and occupational success in the military.

ASVAB Testing Dates

Date: Tuesday, October 6, 2026 and Tuesday, February 2, 2027

Time: 7:30 am

Location: Lecture Hall

For more information, please reach out to Mr. Dolan.

The 2026-2027 Riverbend Athletic Season is here! Be on the lookout for our season ticket plan on GoFan.Co. Download the GoFan App on your phone today. Look for the QR codes that will be posted around our school, posted online, and at our stadium/gymnasiums. Also, see the GoFan Links on our Athletics page. Below are the links for Riverbend Athletics and Season Long Digital Pass:

Riverbend High School GoFan Page - Buy Your Tickets Here

Save Money & Buy Year Long Passes

• 2026/2027 Yearlong Riverbend Student Pass - $50
• 2026/2027 Bears Individual All Season Sports Pass - $125

See our Bears sports schedule on the riverbendbearsathletics.com website or at https://www.arbiterlive.com/School/19307

Riverbend athletics will not be accepting cash at sporting events. You may buy tickets ahead of time or as you arrive at the stadium. If purchasing at the gate, RHS accepts debit/credit cards or Apple pay.

• $9 ticket General Admission ($11 for Varsity Football Games)
• 65 and older free
• 6 and under free

Friendly reminder that SCPS athletic events have a no bag policy except for small clutches (5" x 7"), diaper bags, or medical equipment bags. No pets, no balls or sports equipment, and no outside food or drinks.

Come on out and support your Bears! We hope to see you there!!!

GO BEARS!!!

Want to know more information about all things Riverbend? Be sure to like and follow Riverbend High School on Facebook!

Families are able to access student dues or fees online. For your reference, high school fees can be accessed here. (Not yet registered? View the SchoolCash Online Registration Instructions).

Dues are as follows:

• Senior - $25

• Junior - $15

• Sophomore - $10

• Freshman - $10

View Riverbend High School's breakfast and lunch menus, powered by SFE.

Absences and tardies require a written excuse upon arriving at school. Students with excessive tardiness and absences may be required to provide a doctor's note to avoid consequences. RHS is a closed campus, meaning students may not leave school grounds without parental permission. You must check out at the Attendance Office before leaving the building.

Check out the Parent Resource Center Monthly Newsletters for upcoming events, sessions, and meetings: https://www.spotsylvania.k12.va.us/o/cfps/page/monthly-newsletters

If you have any questions or concerns please feel free to reach out to your child's Assistant Principal or School Counselor. Your child's administrator or counselor can be determined by the first letter of their last name:

Principal

Ms. Elliott

Assistant Principal Contact Information:

Mr. Farley: Students with the last names A-D

Mrs. Stiffler: Students with the last names E-K

Mr. Nicely: Students with the last names L-Ra

Mr. Gebhardt: Students with the last names Re-Z

Activities Director Contact Information:

Mr. Johnson-Williams

School Counselor Contact Information:

Mrs. Kennedy: Students with the last names A-C

Mrs. Rolling: Students with the last names D-F

Mrs. Powell: Students with the last names G-K

Ms. Taylor: Students with the last names L-O

Mr. Dolan: Students with the last names P-Sh

Mrs. Shaffer: Students with the last names Si-Z

Attendance Contact Information

Ms. Liming

Website: https://www.spotsylvania.k12.va.us/o/riverbend

Location: 12301 Spotswood Furnace Road, Fredericksburg, VA 22407

Phone: 540-548-4051