Welcome To Mrs.Tolman's Class

✨ Hello Raider Families!

We are heading into an exciting and meaningful part of our semester! Students are engaging in learning that not only supports their academic success, but also prepares them for real-world responsibilities. Thank you for continuing to support your students as they grow both inside and outside the classroom.

Seniors Celebrating Loteria Day

Class of 2027 Working for their Prom

Junior- Jason Rocha Placing at the Hudson Relays

💰 AVID Finance Unit: Real-World Learning

Our students are beginning a financial literacy unit using EVERFI, where they will explore:

Banking and managing accounts
Saving and budgeting
Understanding taxes
Making informed financial decisions

These are lifelong skills that will empower students to navigate adulthood with confidence (because let’s be honest—no one ever accidentally learns taxes 😅).

📖 Class Spotlight: One of Us is Lying

Our juniors and seniors are currently reading One of Us Is Lying, and it has sparked powerful conversations in class.

Students are reflecting on:

The impact of choices and actions
Accountability and responsibility
How decisions can shape outcomes

It has been incredible to see students make real-life connections and engage in thoughtful discussions.

🎓 Senior Celebrations 🎉

We are so proud to share that two of our seniors have been named Dell Scholars Program finalists!

In addition, seniors are continuing to:

Apply for scholarships
Prepare for college transitions
Take important steps toward their future

Please continue encouraging your seniors to stay focused and meet deadlines—this is such an important season!

Santiago Leija

Plans After High School: Graduate from college and become wealthy.

What are you proud of: I put others before myself

How is your Senior year going? It’s going well super fast but so far very enjoyable.

Who do you want to thank? My family and My Lord and Savior Jesus Christ, for pushing me to be better and guiding me.

Daniel Vazquez

Plans After High School: After high school, I plan to attend college to continue my education and pursue a degree in a engineering science. Being able to earn my Associate of Arts in General Studies already gives me a strong academic foundation, and I’m excited to build on that as I work toward my career goals.

What are you proud of: I’m proud to be apart of the top 5% of my class and to have earned my Associate of Arts before finishing high school. I’ve challenged myself academically through AP courses, passing AP Calculus AB and being the first to pass AP Physics 1: Algebra-Based at Rivera, while staying committed to excellence in both academics and music. Being part of Varsity Choir, competing at All-State auditions, and earning top ratings at Solo and Ensemble competitions have all helped me grow as a student and performer.

How is your Senior year going? Senior year has been busy but rewarding. Balancing college classes, choir, and my final high school responsibilities has taught me a lot about time management and perseverance. It’s exciting to look back at how much I’ve accomplished and to look ahead at all the opportunities waiting after graduation.

Who do you want to thank? I want to thank my family, friends, and teachers for their constant encouragement and support. They’ve pushed me to aim high, helped me stay motivated, and believed in me even when I doubted myself. I’m especially grateful to my choir directors and academic mentors who inspired me to always give my best.

Maricela Gonzalez

Plans After High School: Go to College/work part time

What are you proud of: I am certified as a CPR training last year with my medical teacher last year. I got accepted to UTRGV, and Texas A&M. I am very proud of myself, all the hard work, late nights, and determination I’ve put into reaching my academic goals. Being offered admission to two amazing schools is both exciting. I’m grateful for the support of my family, friends, and mentors who helped me get here.

How is your Senior year going? Is pretty nice everything is going smooth as right now just trying to make sure I do make work on time and trying not to stressed out and just keep going.

Who do you want to thank? I am thankful for my older sister that has been helping me go through all my struggles and making me believe not to give up. Also my mom/dad who always provide me with everything even though they work everyday 24/7.

⚖️ Parent Corner: Finding Balance

As opportunities increase, so do the demands on our students’ time. While involvement in activities, athletics, and organizations is incredibly valuable, balance is key.

We encourage families to help students:

Prioritize responsibilities and commitments
Ensure they are getting enough rest
Make time for academics, activities, and personal well-being

Being involved is important—but being well-balanced is what leads to long-term success and wellness.

🌟 Closing Thoughts

💙 Thank You, Raider Families

Your support makes all the difference. Together, we are helping students build strong futures—academically, emotionally, and beyond.

Mrs. Linda Tolman
AVID Teacher

Ms. Salazar's Counseling Site

Ms. Salazar's Site has all the academic information for Class of 2025!

Mrs. Linda Tolman

Hello, my name is Mrs. Tolman, and I am proud to serve as the 9th, 11th and 12th Grade AVID teacher here at Rivera Early College High School.

I am honored to be recognized as a TIA Exemplary Teacher and currently serve as an SLO Lead Teacher on our campus. I also have the privilege of sponsoring Student Council, Interact, and the Class of 2027, where I work closely with students to build leadership, service, and school pride.

This year, I am especially excited to join the athletic family as an assistant coach for Girls’ Basketball and Girls’ Track, continuing to cheer on and support our Raiders both in and out of the classroom.

Academically, I have earned a Master of Science in Education in Curriculum, Instruction, and Assessment, along with completing the University of Arlington Principal Preparation Program. I am currently pursuing my Doctorate in Curriculum and Instruction, focusing my research on educator wellness and sustainable teaching practices.

At the heart of it all, my passion is helping students grow as learners, leaders, and well-rounded individuals—ready to take on their futures with confidence and resilience.

Email: lmteran@bisd.us
Website: www.TolmansClass.com
Location: Rivera Early College High School, Ruben M Torres Boulevard, Brownsville, TX, USA
Phone: (956) 831-8700
IG: @officialtolmansclass

📵 Reminder: Texas House Bill 1481

Beginning September 18, 2025, Texas House Bill 1481 prohibits the use of personal communication devices—including cell phones—on K–12 school campuses during the school day. This law applies to all public schools across the state.

At Rivera ECHS, we are committed to creating a focused, distraction-free learning environment. We ask for your support in reminding students of this important change and helping them build habits that keep their attention on learning and engagement.

📚 Attendance Matters

At Rivera, we believe every single day makes a difference. When students are in school, they’re not only learning in the classroom but also strengthening relationships and staying connected to the Raider community. Missing just a day means missing important lessons, discussions, and experiences that can’t always be repeated. Let’s commit to showing up every day and making the most of the opportunities ahead—because being present is the first step toward success.