Ridgefield High School’s Thespian Troupe 8635 earned Gold Honor Troupe status at the State Thespian Festival held at Western Washington University in Bellingham last week. The troupe performed in front of nearly 1,300 of their peers from across the state and were taught by teaching artists representing the Educational Theatre Association, the parent organization of the International Thespian Society. Thespian Troupe 8635 has participated in the state festival for the last four years, earning honors on a regular basis.
This year, Ridgefield High School received the following honors at the Washington State Thespian Festival:
- 17 students were honored for their state qualifying Thespy performances and presentations, and six students were honored for their national qualifying Thespy performances
- BriAnna Robbins was awarded the Petra Karr Scholarship for Student Leadership
- 14 students performed a work-in-progress scene from RHS’ upcoming production of The Addams Family
- Students prepared and performed a lip sync performance of “Revolting Children”
- The team of Ella Ross and Caige Sothern prepared and presented for the Gold Level Honor Troupe for continued high standards of excellence in production, participation, community service, and outreach
“Our students put a lot of effort into preparing for this experience, and they get a lot out of it,” said Kaitlyn Etter, Troupe Director. “Not only do they deserve the recognition, but also in terms of expanded horizons and experience in collaborating and communicating that will serve them well whatever they choose to do after high school.”
The members of Troupe 8635 are: Seniors Ella Ross, Caige Sothern, BriAnna Robbins, Summer Sedgley, Victoria Bosch, Caleb Ceravolo, Emily Trost, Kaya Felton, Sunny Bowerman, Andrew Wilken, Madelyn Winter, and Alissa Avery; Juniors Payton Grimm, Elle Lutz, Gabrielle Hemmelman, Megan Hopper, Emily Bloom, Kennadi Jones, Quinn Hemrich, Illy Ikonomou, Jacob Vande Krol, and Raven Meade; Sophomores Robin Turner, Conner Rippee, Nicole Durham, Elliana Lewis, Analeigh Duplessie, Jakie Bernard, and Keiyanai Maldonado Albino. The troupe was chartered in 2018. The 2022-2023 officers are Ella Ross, Caige Sothern, BriAnna Robbins, Elle Lutz, Summer Sedgley, and Payton Grimm.
About Ridgefield High School Thespian Troupe 8635 and the International Thespian Society
The International Thespian Society (ITS) is an honorary organization for high school and middle school theatre students located at more than 4,700 affiliated secondary schools across America, Canada, and abroad. The mission of ITS is to honor student achievement in the theatre arts. High school inductees are known as “Thespians”. ITS is a division of the Educational Theatre Association (EdTA).
Congratulations to the Ridgefield High School Knowledge Bowl team for placing first at the state competition in Wenatchee last week! The win secured the team’s second consecutive 2A state championship. After winning the national Knowledge Bowl championship last year in an unprecedented, come-from-behind win, the team is excited to once again compete in the National Knowledge Bowl, this time as defending national champions.
Knowledge Bowl is similar to Jeopardy, with rapid-fire questions across a broad range of subjects. Flip through a list of sample questions, and you might be surprised at how challenging they are. For example: Name three modal auxiliaries that begin with the letter M? Answer: may, must, might. What is the phase shift of this function: f(x)=4?Answer: sine(x-pi). What is the largest island in the immediate vicinity of the Seychelles, Mauritius, and the Comoros? Answer: Madagascar. Minerals that collect in what kind of alluvial deposits must be dense, chemically inert, and resistant to weathering? Answer: placer deposits.
Watching the RHS team answer questions like these, one after another, is impressive. There’s virtually no hesitation before they hit the buzzer, confident and prepared.
The varsity team won the state championship after taking first place at regionals. Adam Ford, James Haddix, Emi Newell, and Stuart Swingruber are experienced competitors; Ford, Newell, and Haddix were all members of last year’s national championship Knowledge Bowl team. In this year’s state tournament, the Ridgefield team took on tough competition with Charles Wright Academy and Pullman High School, winning by two points in the finals.
Coach David Jacobson is very proud of his students and excited to see them compete on the national stage again—this time attending at least one competition in person. Due to COVID restrictions, many academic competitions had to be held online, so the students are thrilled to get to travel this year. The team is traveling to the national competition in Atlanta thanks to the generous donations from Ridgefield residents and businesses, a $1,500 donation from the Ridgefield Lions Club, and a $5,000 matching grant from the Ridgefield Public Schools Foundation.
One thing for the team hasn’t changed though: they are continuing to practice, working their way through thousands of sample questions.
“They are super smart kids, and they’ve worked hard to get where they are,” Jacobson said. “You never know what will happen at competition, but they have a winning record again this year, and I think their chances are as good as any other team at nationals.
Congratulations to the Ridgefield High School Knowledge Bowl team on their second consecutive state championship, and best of luck at the national competition!
On March 14, Ridgefield School District officials recognized the March 2023 Employee and Students of the Month at the regular Board of Directors meeting. Congratulations to all of this month’s honorees!
Employee of the Month – Kristen Sullens, Union Ridge Elementary
Kindergarten teacher Kristen Sullens has dedicated her time and talent to our school and her profession. She positively inspires and encourages peers, students and admin on a daily basis. One way Kristen demonstrates her passion for student growth and inspiring her colleagues is by hosting a Writer’s Workshop professional development. She spends countless hours preparing and teaching a very thoughtful, practical, insightful course on how to plan and implement Writer's Workshop. In this course, Kristen shares not only her wisdom and planning strategies for implementing a successful writing program, but also years worth of resources she’s compiled. Kristen always has an open door if you have a question or a need. She is a team player and brings positivity and inspiration to her team’s PLCs. Kristen joyfully accepts any challenge that will inspire student growth and believes in a child’s ability to learn and grow, no matter the challenges. For example, she eagerly includes students from the RISE program into her class any chance she can. When students walk into Mrs. Sullens classroom, they know they are entering a safe, positive space to be inspired and grow. She is a team player and is one of the reasons Ridgefield School District can call itself a premier district.
Early Learning Center – Oliver Schuh, Pre-K
Oliver Schuh is one of our youngest learners and newest Hash Browns, but he has had a great impact in such a short time. Ollie has an infectious smile that lights up the room. He radiates joy everywhere he goes. Even though he is a newer student, everyone in the Early Learning Center knows Ollie. He is so happy and energetic that you can't resist smiling. He loves taking laps during recess and will happily join in or challenge you to race when you're taking laps in the gym. Ollie has been such a joy to have in the ELC and we are excited to see how much he grows.
South Ridge Elementary School – Addison Green, 4th Grade
Addy truly exemplifies the 3 Rs here at South Ridge! She is extremely responsible as she always takes the time to do her very best on her school work and turns in everything in a timely fashion without ever rushing. Addy is resilient! She knows that her job at school is to be the best student and the best human she can possibly be. If she is ever unsure about a concept, she makes sure to ask questions until she can feel confident. When she makes a mistake, she sees it as an opportunity to learn, and she will analyze each and every error and is never afraid to explain to the class what she learned when she has missed something. Addy is also very respectful. She is truly a kind hearted, compassionate young lady. She comes into the classroom each day wearing a smile and is always cheerful and positive. Addy is a remarkable young lady who brightens the day for everyone who comes in contact with her.
Union Ridge Elementary School – Amelia Myers, 4th Grade
Amelia shows up to school every day with a positive attitude and a willingness to help others. Not only does she do her personal best with her own academics, but she helps anyone who is struggling. Recently Amelia asked her teacher that another student in the class be chosen for a prize because they had worked so hard on their math. This is the true spirit of empathy, caring, and selflessness; all the qualities of a Tater Tot! Amelia's teacher boasted that she loves having Amelia in her class and can’t wait to see all the wonderful things she will do in the future! Great job, Amelia!
Sunset Ridge Intermediate School – Joshua Neil, 6th Grade
Josh is always eager to learn and has excellent participation in class. His positive attitude, selfless acts, compassion for others, and kind heart shines bright. He is an amazing role model for others in the classroom. Josh embraces learning inside and outside the classroom and will share that excitement with his fellow students. We all love to hear what Josh is learning, building, or creating on his own. He is very responsible and consistently puts forth his best effort to succeed academically. His respectful attitude, amiable demeanor, and responsible behavior make Josh the perfect Coyote for Student of the Month at Sunset Ridge Intermediate. Congratulations Josh!
Wisdom Ridge Academy – Dameyan Innabi, 6th Grade
Dameyan is a hard-working, tenacious, and resilient student. Dameyan has a severe heart condition that leaves him vulnerable to infectious diseases. Wisdom Ridge Academy allows Dameyan to thrive in an academic environment without compromising his health. His teachers at WRA, Mr. Coulam and Ms. Pinkleton, work in conjunction with his mother, Natalie, to ensure Dameyan is making academic progress in all of his courses. Ms. Pinkleton says of Dameyan: “He demonstrates a lot of integrity in his coursework each week and sticks to an impressive schedule which includes schoolwork, family activities, and an hour of physical exercise every single day among other remarkable accomplishments! Dameyan demonstrates a lot of resilience and integrity in his coursework and we love to hear his beautiful singing voice, which he is using to support his growing literacy skills!” Dameyan’s mother says that Dameyan “is a strong, resilient, fun, loving and caring young man.” Dameyan inspires those around him to overcome obstacles and we are proud to name him the March Student of the Month.
View Ridge Middle School – Lillian Edgren, 7th Grade
Lilly is thoughtful, reflective, supportive of her peers, exudes kindness and is welcoming to anyone and everyone. Lilly’s math teacher, Kris Call, said “Lilly is the most polite, courteous and hardest working student in class. She is always smiling… I truly wish all students had her persistence and ability to work with others.” Lilly’s other teachers say that she is a strong leader, participates well in her classes, has a positive influence on her peers, and is fully engaged and enthusiastic about her education. For these reasons and many more not mentioned, Lillian embodies View Ridge’s Heron Spirit and we are proud to recognize her as our March Student of the Month! Congratulations, Lillian, on a well-deserved honor!
Ridgefield High School – Benjamin Cooke, 9th Grade
Ben is the definition of responsible. He is self-disciplined, accountable, and always does his best. When times get tough, Ben has learned to push through and never give up. When Ben isn’t working hard to learn in the classroom, he can be found enjoying lunch with his friends (although he misses recess!), playing video games, and watching anime. In addition to these activities, at the time of writing, Ben has a 355 day streak on Duolingo! Which makes sense, as his favorite class at RHS is Spanish. After high school, Ben hopes to pursue a career in computer programming or video game development. You will probably also catch him adding to his ever-growing collection of rocks, Hot Wheels and rubber ducks. Congratulations, Ben! We are proud to call you a Spudder
On March 14, Ridgefield School District officials recognized the March 2023 Employee and Students of the Month at the regular Board of Directors meeting. Congratulations to all of this month’s honorees!
Employee of the Month – Kristen Sullens, Union Ridge Elementary
Kindergarten teacher Kristen Sullens has dedicated her time and talent to our school and her profession. She positively inspires and encourages peers, students and admin on a daily basis. One way Kristen demonstrates her passion for student growth and inspiring her colleagues is by hosting a Writer’s Workshop professional development. She spends countless hours preparing and teaching a very thoughtful, practical, insightful course on how to plan and implement Writer's Workshop. In this course, Kristen shares not only her wisdom and planning strategies for implementing a successful writing program, but also years worth of resources she’s compiled. Kristen always has an open door if you have a question or a need. She is a team player and brings positivity and inspiration to her team’s PLCs. Kristen joyfully accepts any challenge that will inspire student growth and believes in a child’s ability to learn and grow, no matter the challenges. For example, she eagerly includes students from the RISE program into her class any chance she can. When students walk into Mrs. Sullens classroom, they know they are entering a safe, positive space to be inspired and grow. She is a team player and is one of the reasons Ridgefield School District can call itself a premier district.
Early Learning Center – Oliver Schuh, Pre-K
Oliver Schuh is one of our youngest learners and newest Hash Browns, but he has had a great impact in such a short time. Ollie has an infectious smile that lights up the room. He radiates joy everywhere he goes. Even though he is a newer student, everyone in the Early Learning Center knows Ollie. He is so happy and energetic that you can't resist smiling. He loves taking laps during recess and will happily join in or challenge you to race when you're taking laps in the gym. Ollie has been such a joy to have in the ELC and we are excited to see how much he grows.
South Ridge Elementary School – Addison Green, 4th Grade
Addy truly exemplifies the 3 Rs here at South Ridge! She is extremely responsible as she always takes the time to do her very best on her school work and turns in everything in a timely fashion without ever rushing. Addy is resilient! She knows that her job at school is to be the best student and the best human she can possibly be. If she is ever unsure about a concept, she makes sure to ask questions until she can feel confident. When she makes a mistake, she sees it as an opportunity to learn, and she will analyze each and every error and is never afraid to explain to the class what she learned when she has missed something. Addy is also very respectful. She is truly a kind hearted, compassionate young lady. She comes into the classroom each day wearing a smile and is always cheerful and positive. Addy is a remarkable young lady who brightens the day for everyone who comes in contact with her.
Union Ridge Elementary School – Amelia Myers, 4th Grade
Amelia shows up to school every day with a positive attitude and a willingness to help others. Not only does she do her personal best with her own academics, but she helps anyone who is struggling. Recently Amelia asked her teacher that another student in the class be chosen for a prize because they had worked so hard on their math. This is the true spirit of empathy, caring, and selflessness; all the qualities of a Tater Tot! Amelia's teacher boasted that she loves having Amelia in her class and can’t wait to see all the wonderful things she will do in the future! Great job, Amelia!
Sunset Ridge Intermediate School – Joshua Neil, 6th Grade
Josh is always eager to learn and has excellent participation in class. His positive attitude, selfless acts, compassion for others, and kind heart shines bright. He is an amazing role model for others in the classroom. Josh embraces learning inside and outside the classroom and will share that excitement with his fellow students. We all love to hear what Josh is learning, building, or creating on his own. He is very responsible and consistently puts forth his best effort to succeed academically. His respectful attitude, amiable demeanor, and responsible behavior make Josh the perfect Coyote for Student of the Month at Sunset Ridge Intermediate. Congratulations Josh!
Wisdom Ridge Academy – Dameyan Innabi, 6th Grade
Dameyan is a hard-working, tenacious, and resilient student. Dameyan has a severe heart condition that leaves him vulnerable to infectious diseases. Wisdom Ridge Academy allows Dameyan to thrive in an academic environment without compromising his health. His teachers at WRA, Mr. Coulam and Ms. Pinkleton, work in conjunction with his mother, Natalie, to ensure Dameyan is making academic progress in all of his courses. Ms. Pinkleton says of Dameyan: “He demonstrates a lot of integrity in his coursework each week and sticks to an impressive schedule which includes schoolwork, family activities, and an hour of physical exercise every single day among other remarkable accomplishments! Dameyan demonstrates a lot of resilience and integrity in his coursework and we love to hear his beautiful singing voice, which he is using to support his growing literacy skills!” Dameyan’s mother says that Dameyan “is a strong, resilient, fun, loving and caring young man.” Dameyan inspires those around him to overcome obstacles and we are proud to name him the March Student of the Month.
View Ridge Middle School – Lillian Edgren, 7th Grade
Lilly is thoughtful, reflective, supportive of her peers, exudes kindness and is welcoming to anyone and everyone. Lilly’s math teacher, Kris Call, said “Lilly is the most polite, courteous and hardest working student in class. She is always smiling… I truly wish all students had her persistence and ability to work with others.” Lilly’s other teachers say that she is a strong leader, participates well in her classes, has a positive influence on her peers, and is fully engaged and enthusiastic about her education. For these reasons and many more not mentioned, Lillian embodies View Ridge’s Heron Spirit and we are proud to recognize her as our March Student of the Month! Congratulations, Lillian, on a well-deserved honor!
Ridgefield High School – Benjamin Cooke, 9th Grade
Ben is the definition of responsible. He is self-disciplined, accountable, and always does his best. When times get tough, Ben has learned to push through and never give up. When Ben isn’t working hard to learn in the classroom, he can be found enjoying lunch with his friends (although he misses recess!), playing video games, and watching anime. In addition to these activities, at the time of writing, Ben has a 355 day streak on Duolingo! Which makes sense, as his favorite class at RHS is Spanish. After high school, Ben hopes to pursue a career in computer programming or video game development. You will probably also catch him adding to his ever-growing collection of rocks, Hot Wheels and rubber ducks. Congratulations, Ben! We are proud to call you a Spudder
The Ridgefield Family Resource Center (RFRC) provides critical assistance with food, household supplies, toiletries, and clothing for school age children and their families. But recent changes to federal funding, paired with steep increases in gas and grocery prices, have caused a dramatic increase in need across the community—and the RFRC could use your help ensuring that no child in Ridgefield goes hungry.
The RFRC has seen a surge in requests for assistance. “I’ve seen families here that I haven’t seen in a while, and families that I haven’t seen before too,” director Christine Poppert said. People who never anticipated needing help have found themselves walking through the door. “I’m grateful that they are coming to us. I know it can be hard to ask for help, but we’re here to serve the whole community. We want to be a comfortable place to land when people need help.”
Poppert believes the need for RFRC services may continue to increase. On March 1, the federal Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) ended pandemic-related allotments, cutting benefits by an average of $171 per month, impacting over 520,000 households statewide. With many families already facing hardships like job loss, illness, and rising prices, food banks across Washington have already seen increased demand—and RFRC is no exception. They could use your help making sure their shelves are well-stocked with enough food, toiletries, and household supplies to meet our community’s needs.
There are a number of ways you can help the Ridgefield Family Resource Center:
Food and Toiletry Donations
Some items are always in high demand. Donations of the following items are always welcome:
- Cereal
- Quick individual meals (ex. individually packaged beef jerky sticks, mac and cheese cups, meal bars, tuna or chicken cracker packs, fruit bars, applesauce pouches)
- Peanut butter
- Pasta and pasta sauce
- Canned meats (tuna, chicken, etc.)
- Shampoo and conditioner
- Deodorant
- Feminine hygiene products
- Diapers and wipes
- Laundry detergent and fabric softener
“If you see something on sale for a good price, maybe buy two and donate one to the Family Resource Center. Or sign up for the Green Bag Project at https://clarkfoodproject.org/79-2/ They pick the filled grocery bag up right from your doorstep every couple of months. Every little bit helps,” Poppert said.
Monetary Donations
Monetary donations can be sent by check, with RFRC in the memo line, to the Ridgefield Family Resource Center, c/o Ridgefield School District, 510 Pioneer Street, Ridgefield, WA 98642. Or they can be made online, at https://wa-ridgefield-lite.intouchreceipting.com/ by selecting District Office for School, and Family Resource Center for Item (note there is a small processing fee for online donations). “Not everyone wants to donate goods,” Poppert explained. “And if it’s easier to write a check or call us to make a donation, that’s fine. We welcome everyone’s support.”
Gift Card Donations
Gift cards can help offset the cost of items the RFRC cannot provide, like gas. “We are always in need of gift cards for families’ other needs,” Poppert said. “Right now, there is a huge need for gift cards for gas. But we welcome any kind of gift card. Maybe you have one that has been sitting in your wallet for a while. There is probably a family here that can use it.” Gift cards can be dropped off at the Ridgefield School District Office at 510 Pioneer Street with a note that the donation is for the RFRC.
Other Donation Ideas
Poppert welcomes creative donations as well. “Think about the things you need or like as a family, and chances are, there’s another family out there that needs the same thing.” Extra items from subscription kits, like makeup, moisturizers, socks, razors, meal kits, or snacks are always popular. Pet food products are also an unexpected need.
Poppert is deeply grateful for the ongoing support the Family Resource Center receives from the community. They partner with the Green Bag Project, Neighbors Helping Neighbors, Compassion 360, and the Clark County Food Bank and Gleaners to ensure resources are available for every family that needs assistance. They also receive donations from Rosauers grocery store, student supply drives, and from the Ridgefield Public Schools Foundation Turkey Trot run/walk. Even the new part-time RFRC assistant position was funded through a grant written by the city of Ridgefield for the Ridgefield School District. “I want to send a big thank you to the community for helping us help others,” Poppert said. “Your generous donations allow us to help so many Ridgefield families, and that’s an incredible thing.”
If you need assistance, please contact the Ridgefield Family Resource Center at 360-619-1412 or email christine.poppert@ridgefieldsd.org. They are located in portables C and D between the RACC and Union Ridge Elementary School. Hours are Mondays from 1:00 – 5:00 p.m., Wednesdays from 12:00 – 4:00 p.m., and Thursdays from 1:30 – 6:30 p.m. Their website is www.ridgefieldsd.org/page/family-resource-center. The RFRC is happy to help support our community!