Rocket Radar 4-12-26

Good Afternoon, Rocket Families!🚀

This is Erika Bower, Superintendent of Ridgedale Local Schools, where our mission is to empower students to reach their full potential through our cornerstones of learning, safety, community partnerships, and fiscal responsibility.  

🚜You may be wondering why this week’s Rocket Radar is arriving a bit later than its usual 1:30pm release. Today, we had the privilege of hosting many families and students at our annual FFA banquet, which was an afternoon dedicated to celebrating student success, recognizing award recipients, highlighting chapter accomplishments, installing new officers, and honoring our senior members.

Our Agriculture Career Technical Education pathway is one of many CTE opportunities available on our campus, and FFA remains a vital organization with a proud tradition at Ridgedale. FFA is more than agriculture. It’s a launchpad for leadership, career exploration, and real-world success. Through hands-on experiences, competitions, and community service, students build confidence, responsibility, and skills that extend far beyond the classroom.

We encourage all students in grades 7–12 to explore ways to get involved in agriculture and take advantage of the many opportunities FFA provides!

🚀 This week kicks off Ohio State Testing for students in grades 3 and up! As we begin Ohio State Testing (OST), we appreciate your partnership in helping our students feel confident and prepared to do their best! Please take note of a few tips and reminders below:

⏰ Be On Time: Arriving at school on time helps students start the day calm and focused. 

😴 Rest Up: A good night’s sleep is one of the best ways to support focus and performance.

🍎 Fuel Up: A healthy breakfast provides the energy students need to stay engaged and think clearly.

💬 Encourage Positivity: Remind your child to take their time and do their best. 

⭐ Celebrate Effort: Praise hard work, persistence, and a positive attitude.

☀️ Start Strong: A calm, consistent morning routine sets the tone for a successful day.

✅Please check the website, Google calendar, or ParentSquare for all up-to-date events.

🏃‍♂️🏃‍♀️⚾🥎On Monday, jr. high track is at USV, and high school baseball and softball play at home against USV.

📝🏃‍♂️🏃‍♀️⚾🥎On Tuesday, students in grades 3-8 and English II will take Part I of their ELA OST. High school track competes at Crestline, and high school baseball and softball play at Hardin Northern. 

📝💼🚀On Wednesday, students in grades 3-8 and English II will take Part II of their ELA OST. Power Hours will hold their family and career night from 5-6:30pm in the elementary gym. Students in grades K-8 are invited.

🏃‍♂️🏃‍♀️🥎On Thursday, high school track competes at Ontario, high school softball plays at home against Arlington, and jr. high track competes at North Union.

On Friday, we are holding our 3rd Annual Sharon Burkett Memorial Talent Show. Join us for this fun-filled night from 5-8pm!

🏃‍♂️🏃‍♀️⚾🥎On Saturday, jr. high track competes at Cardington, high school softball plays at Grove City, and high school baseball plays at Mechanicsburg.

🚍Join Our Team! We’re Hiring!

Want to be part of our small district doing big things? We're looking for substitutes for teaching, food service, custodial, secretarial, aide, and bus driver positions. Apply today on our website and help support our amazing students!

Thank you for your continued support of our students, staff, and community. Make it a great week, and, as always, Go, Rockets! 🚀