Bears Newsletter, Week of 8/31/26

Are you interested in law enforcement, public safety, or criminal justice? Join us for a Career Chat featuring the Spotsylvania County Sheriff’s Office on Wednesday, September 2, from 10:25 am to 10:50 am.

Learn about the skills, education, and career pathways needed for success in the field, and hear firsthand what a typical day on the job is like.

Space is limited, so if you're interested, please contact our Career Readiness Paraprofessional, Ms. Gray, to sign up today!

Don't miss this opportunity to explore a career in public safety and connect with local professionals.

Join us for Back to School Night, where students and families will have the opportunity to meet with teachers, learn more about their classes, and connect with the many clubs and activities available at Riverbend.

Date: Tuesday, September 15

Time: 5:00 pm to 7:00 pm

We look forward to welcoming our families for an exciting evening!

Join us for our first PTSA meeting on Monday, September 14 at 7:00 pm via Zoom. We will be discussing this year's budget and the programs we will be supporting. We look forward to seeing you there!

Zoom Link: https://us05web.zoom.us/j/89562841721?pwd=iyhcAUkkvoH7ZI9i5adb4bgSZ2xCt2.1

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!

Date: Thursday, September 3 & Friday, September 4

Pictures Available: Approximately two weeks after photo day

Pre-order Online: https://shop.imagequix.com/g1001415974

Questions about Ordering? Email us at underclass@vosphoto.com

Are you looking for a way to build leadership skills, expand your professional network, and make a difference in your school community? Applications are now open for the 2026–2027 CTE Student Ambassador Program. The program is open to 9-12 graders.

As a CTE Student Ambassador, you will support Career and Technical Education events and programs, represent your school, connect with business and community leaders, and serve as a role model for your peers.

Have questions? Please reach out to our Career Readiness Paraprofessional, Ms. Gray, with questions.

Apply today and become a CTE Student Ambassador!

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.

Please join us on Tuesday, September 15 @ Harry’s Ale House to support the RHS PTSA. 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.

Are you a junior interested in history, government, leadership, and civic engagement? Consider applying for Virginia Boys State!

Virginia Boys State provides students with an opportunity to learn about government and leadership through an immersive, hands-on experience.

For more information and application details, please email Ms. Powell.

More information about Virginia Boys State is available at: https://www.vaboysstate.org/.

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.

The Counseling Department is finishing its senior classroom presentations this week and will begin meeting individually with seniors to support their post-secondary planning and next steps.

Senior Bear Blocks for Xello and Common App assistance are also taking place this week. Students who need support with either platform are encouraged to sign up.

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.

Beginning Friday, August 14, students who do not currently have a study hall or aide block may request to change one of their classes to a study hall.

Request forms will be available in the Counseling Office beginning Friday, August 14. Students will need to complete the form and obtain all required signatures before the request can be processed.

• You may drop a study hall to have late arrival or early release, as long as a Special Permission Form is on file and you have already met all your graduation testing requirements.
• You may also drop a credit-bearing class for late arrival or early release if it fits your current schedule. We will not rearrange your schedule to accommodate the change.
• After the drop deadlines, this will be recorded as a WP (Withdraw Passing) or WF (Withdraw Failing) on your transcript:
• Full-year courses: November 13, 2026
• Semester 1 courses: September 25, 2026
• Semester 2 courses: February 19, 2027

• You may drop an elective class and add a study hall if there is an open study hall available during that same block.
• We will not rearrange your schedule to make this happen.
• Please note: You cannot have more than 1 non-credit bearing class without special permission.
• Drop deadlines apply (see above) or it will be marked as WP/WF.

• Beginning Friday, August 14, students may request a course level change (Level up or level down). Forms will be available in the Counseling Office.
• Level changes (e.g., Honors to Regular, AP to Honors or Regular) are allowed through the end of the first nine weeks of the course and are based on course availability.
• End of the first nine weeks is Friday, October 9, 2026.

• Course-for-course changes are not allowed. The deadline to request different class selections was May 23, 2026.
• Teacher changes without the approval of school administration.

Please follow the SCPS Guidelines provided above. If you have any questions, please contact your school counselor.

Note: Counselor alpha assignments have been updated to create a more balanced distribution of student caseloads and ensure equitable support for all students.

Please log in to ParentVue and complete the required beginning of the year documents. If you don’t complete these documents, you will not be able to access your student’s transportation, scheduling, and gradebook information.

5:00 pm Freshman Volleyball vs Mountain View @ Mountain View High School

5:00 pm JV Field Hockey vs Mountain View @ Mountain View High School

5:00 pm JV Volleyball vs Mountain View @ Mountain View High School

6:30 pm Varsity Field Hockey vs Mountain View @ Mountain View High School

6:30 pm Varsity Volleyball vs Mountain View @ Mountain View High School

3:00 pm Varsity Boys Golf vs North Stafford @ Fawn Lake Country Club

6:30 pm JV Football vs Forest Park @ Riverbend High School

5:00 pm Freshman Football vs Massaponax @ Massaponax High School

5:00 pm Freshman Volleyball vs Hartwood @ Riverbend High School

5:00 pm JV Volleyball vs Hartwood @ Riverbend High School

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

6:30 pm Varsity Volleyball vs Hartwood @ Riverbend High School

3:00 pm Varsity Boys Golf vs Mountain View @ Fawn Lake Country Club

7:00 pm Varsity Football vs Forest Park @ Forest Park High School

9:00 am Varsity Boys and Girls Cross Country vs TBA @ Patriot 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)

If your student rides the school bus, please check ParentVue/StudentVue. Information regarding your student’s transportation can be found using the app or website.

If your student drives to school, please encourage them to leave early. Safety is our priority, and students should allow plenty of time to get to school on time.

Parent drop-off takes place in the front of the building. Parent drivers should proceed through the drop-off line that winds through the parking lot, and should not park in parking spaces. The foyer opens at 7:00 am, and the rest of the building opens at 7:10 am. Traffic will be heavy for the first few weeks, so we encourage you to arrive early. Security personnel will be on hand in the parking lot to assist with the flow of traffic.

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!

As we start our school year, please be aware that RHS will be conducting multiple fire drills and lockdown drills in the first 20 days of school as required.

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 Nutrislice.

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