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TRIBAL TALKS
A Guide to Activities, Groups & Events on The Reservation (Last Updated August 2017, unless noted otherwise.)
Riverside firmly believes in molding well-rounded students, which includes opportunities
for activity and personal growth outside the classroom. We hope all students, parents, faculty,
alumni, and friends can use the following information to become involved on The Reservation.
Below you’ll find a list of activities, groups, and events with brief group information, contacts,
and a primary place for you to look for updates (PPU), as well as social media links to follow.
Follow us on: Facebook: Riverside High School – South Carolina
(make sure to include the dash to get the official page.)
Instagram: RiversideWarriors
Twitter: @RHSTribeChat
FYI: Riverside is working on creating a new school website. When it goes live, some of the
website links referenced in Tribal Talks may change. The digital version of Tribal Talks
will be updated, providing the location of the new links. A digital version of Tribal Talks
should be available on the new website.
STUDENTS
Academic Team: The Academic Team competes in Jeopardy-like tournaments against other
high school teams from SC and the US. Members meet Tuesdays through Thursdays from 7:30-
8am to practice, study, and prepare. Tryouts are open to all 8th-11th graders each spring. Tryouts
include a written general knowledge test, as well as a “speed” round with “buzzing in” to answer
questions. Students only need to try out once, and remain in good standing for membership
during their time at RHS. Fee: $50 a year to cover tournament registration and transportation.
(Additional money may be collected for long-distance travel.) Faculty Advisor: Cheryl Youmans
Adult Tutoring Programs: In an effort to assist all of our students, RHS keeps a list of adult tutors who
are available to guide students in a variety of subjects. Riverside does not endorse any one tutor. Parents
should research each potential tutor’s qualifications and select the one that best suits your child’s individual
needs. Times and fees are arranged between tutors and a student’s family. Families wanting a list of tutors
should contact the student's counselor or one of the student's teachers. The updated tutoring list is usually
available mid-September. Adults interested in tutoring should contact Cathy Derrick (355-7818,
[email protected]) before Labor Day.
Advisory Committee (Advisory): One of five committees that comprise the Riverside Student
Association (Student Council). The Advisory Committee is composed of a group of students
who represent the school across a spectrum of grades, races, and activities. Each grade is
represented by three students who mirror the make-up of the student body. Advisory runs the
Powder Puff game each December, and creates special projects that help bring harmony to the
school. Advisory Committee members are selected by Mrs. Elsey (upper classmen in the spring,
and freshmen in the fall). Faculty Advisor: Mary Anna Elsey ([email protected], 355-
7840) Advisory Student Body President: Haley Meltzer.
Announcements: Written forms of Daily Announcements presented to students at RHS can be
found at www.greenville.k12.sc.us/riverside/announce/daily.asp.
Athletics: Riverside has a proud athletic tradition dating back to 1973, fielding dozens of state-
winning teams across a wide variety of sports from baseball to volleyball. Student participation
on athletic teams is a privilege (not a right) that a student earns. Tryouts are held in each sport,
and coaches announce dates during a pre-season meeting. Most sports have a participation limit
where tryouts are involved, while a select few sports are conducive to large participation
numbers. Fee: $40 per year athletic insurance that covers one athlete across all teams. Additional
fees vary depending upon the sport. For specific information on coaches, eligibility, tryouts, and
more, for each individual sport, reference the RHS Survival Guide, or go to the school website
and click on “Athletics” on the student or parent drop-down menus. Or reference Riverside
at www.greenvillecountyathletics.com. Faculty Contact: Athletic Director Murray Long
([email protected]) Students, parents and the community are also encouraged to follow
all RHS sporting updates disseminated by the RHS Booster Club listed below.
Atlas Club: A cultural awareness club celebrating the diverse student population at RHS and
exposing students to international food and traditions. Members meet once a month for @20
minutes to share ethnic foods and more. Atlas raises money for a Third World school or
orphanage each year through a Global Market, Fashion & Dance Show, and Day of the Dead
Celebration. Membership is open to all students. Fee: $6. Faculty Leader: Anne Snow
([email protected]) Look for updates through school announcements and posted flyers.
Beta Club: A service-oriented, scholastic honorary club for students who maintain a 3.75 GPA
(2017-18) and 4.0 GPA (2018-29), and have no referrals. Students may apply any semester after
their freshman fall semester. Fees: One-time $15 dues to nationals, and $5 per year to RHS.
Members meet once a semester, but have numerous service opportunities across the year to earn
mandatory service points. Faculty Advisors: Karen Becker ([email protected], 355-
7895) PPU: School announcements and T-Mall bulletin board.
Biology Club: A science club that provides hands-on experience for students and assists them in
staying current on medical advances and biological research. Open to all students. Meets once a
quarter and dissects animal specimens once a semester in Karen Becker’s room at 7:45am. Fee:
@$20, depending on dissections and donations. Faculty Advisor: Karen Becker
([email protected], 355-7895)
Central Spirit Committee (CSC): One of five committees that comprise the Riverside Student
Association (Student Council). CSC serves as the nucleus of RHS school spirit, working to
raise energy and pride within the student body through pep rallies, teacher appreciation days,
Homecoming activities, Freshman Orientation and spirit banners. The CSC presidents are
appointed each spring, one of whom usually serves on Student Council. Representatives from
each class and a minimum of five officers are selected in the spring (freshman members in the
fall) through an application and interview process with the CSC student officers and teacher
advisors. Applications and information can be found on the CSC bulletin board outside of the
guidance office. Members meet every Monday from August through November and then the first
Monday of the month for the remainder of the school year. CSC members hold fundraising
activities year-round that pay for pep rallies, banners, and more. Student President: Mackenzie
Logue, Faculty Advisors: Bridget Hall ([email protected]) Michelle Obusewski
([email protected]#) Holly Cameron ([email protected]) Julie
Faulk ([email protected]) Mindy Imperati ([email protected]) CSC Co-
President: TBA, CSC Co-Presidents: Ashley Flucker & Lauren Batman Follow @CSC_RHS on
Twitter.
Cheerleading: RHS cheerleaders serve as ambassadors of the school, promoting spirit and ideals
of the institution at athletic events, parades, and pep rallies. Members develop physical and
leadership skills, while building teamwork and lifelong values. Try-outs for both JV & Varsity
are held one week each spring for rising 7th-12th graders. 7th- 11th graders can make JV or
Varsity. Seniors can only make Varsity. Those who become members of the squad will be
required to pay fees that can vary. A year-long commitment is expected. PPU: school
announcements. Twitter: @RHSWarriorCheer, Instagram: @RHSWarriorCheer, facebook: RHS
Warrior Cheer. Faculty Advisor: Athletic Director Murray Long ([email protected])
Head Coach: Cindy Armstrong ([email protected])
Chorus: RHS offers several opportunities for students who enjoy singing, including Chorus I,
Women’s Choir, Honor Choir and accapella groups: Harmony for ladies, and Tone Def for men.
(Students must be a member of the choral program to audition for the accapella groups.)
Participation with each of these groups requires class registration. Anyone can join Chorus I.
Auditions with Mrs. Fowler during class registration are required for the other two. No fee,
however upper level members purchase/rent formal attire. PPU for members: Remind 101.
Faculty Advisor: Donna Fowler ([email protected]) Parent Volunteer: Barbara
Rupp.
Delta Physics Club (ΔPC): This science club provides exciting interaction to engage students
interested in physics. Members meet in M115 during 6th & 7th periods to run physics
experiments. Open to all students with an 85+ in current science class and an 85+ Algebra II, and
no referrals. Faculty Advisor: Bryan Woody ([email protected]) PPU: Instagram: RHSphysics Twitter: @RHSPhysicsClub
Eblast (RHS PTSA Eblast): A great resource of RHS information for parents and students. The
RHS PTSA sends out an informational E-Blast via email every other week, listing school
activities, spirit events, and PTA information. Anyone can register to receive this Eblast. Visit
the RHS website, and you’ll find a sign-up box on the bottom right of the home-page. Recipients
can opt out of receiving the e-blast at any time. Parent Volunteer: Susan Scarborough Smith
Environmental Club: Information not available at printing. Please contact Marley McDonough
for details. ([email protected])
Executive (Exec): One of five committees that comprise the Riverside Student Association
(Student Council). Officers elected by their respective classes, as well as Student Body officers
elected by the entire student body, create Exec and meet for one period during the day. A
historian and secretary can be appointed to serve on Exec. Members are responsible for running
Spirit Weeks, as well as creating unity and direction for all students through various events and
activities. Faculty Contact: Heather Greene ([email protected]) Student Body
President: Haley Meltzer, Student Body Vice President: Madeline Bynum, Student Body
Speaker of the House: Allison O’Toole, Student Body Secretary: Hannah Lukanic, RPR:
Gabby Mylander.
Fishing Club: One of the newer clubs on The Reservation, started in 2015-16. This club is still
getting established and competing in local and state-wide tournaments. If interested please reach
out to Coach Long. Faculty Advisor: Athletic Director Murray Long
Fellowship of Christian Athletes (FCA): RHS athletes and non-athletes alike gather each
Friday at 7:20am in the cafeteria to socialize, eat a free Chic-fil-A breakfast, play games and hear
great Christian speakers. No need to sign up; just show up. Open to all students. No fee.
Faculty Advisor: Jenny Taylor ([email protected]) John Linn
([email protected]) PPU: Instagram: @riverside_fca Twitter: @RiversideFCA
Facebook: Riverside FCA
Gay-Straight Alliance (GSA Club): This club was created in 2014 to bridge positive relations
within the student body. The club meets 2-3 times a month in room G-116 with programs on
issues that affect all teens. (A schedule will be available at orientation.) Membership is open to
all and must be established each year. Officers are selected via an application process in the
spring. Faculty Advisor: Mary Anna Elsey ([email protected], 355-7840)
German Club: This club promotes German culture through travel, celebrating German holidays,
visiting German restaurants, attending local Oktoberfests, etc. Members meet about once a month
in L110 before school to plan events. Open to all students interested in learning more about
Germany, its culture and its people. Fee: $5. Faculty Advisor: William Baker
([email protected], 355-7889) PPU: Look for announcements on school website and
in German class.
German Honor Society: An academic honor society to honor students who have excelled in
German. To be eligible for induction, students must have completed three semesters of German
with a 3.6 grade point average in German and have an overall grade point average of 3.0/4.0
scale. No club meetings. Faculty Contact: William Baker ([email protected] , 355-
7889)
Homecoming: This year’s Homecoming football game is September 29, with a dance on Sept.
30. The Central Spirit Committee organizes many Homecoming activities. All students are
encouraged to participate in these events that run all week and culminate in a football game and
dance. Each class builds a float through its Project Club. Details for the dance are well-
publicized on the school’s facebook page and over announcements. For specifics on
Homecoming Court, Senior Football Player recognition, and ways to get involved, please
reference the Student Survival Guide. Faculty Advisors: Bridget Hall
([email protected]), Michelle Obusewski ([email protected]#), Holly
Cameron ([email protected]) Julie Faulk ([email protected]) Mindy
Imperati ([email protected])
Key Club: This social/service club seeks opportunities to serve the community and RHS. All
students can join. Members meet one Wednesday each month in room G120. Key Club is a
national group affiliated with the Kiwanis. Faculty Advisors: Sharon Shroeder
La Société Honoraire de Français: Students enrolled in a second year of French are invited to
join this scholarly société steeped in language and culture. Students must have achieved an A for
three consecutive semesters in French and a B in other classes. Fee: a one-time $10 fee. Seniors
receive an honor cord for graduation. Faculty Advisor: Carolee Dover
Medical Warriors of the Future: A student-led organization for those interested in a health
career. Membership applications are in H108. We meet monthly from 7:40-8am in the
auditorium to discuss trending health care topics, as well as community
programs available to students. A Career Day is provided for members where several
medical experts come and teach students about their field of study. Faculty Advisor:
Amanda Abrams ([email protected]).
Miss Riverside: A pageant held in the fall for ladies, complementing its counter-part Mister
Riverside. This year’s pageant will be on October 23. Classmates nominate each other to be
contestants. Each class has a winner, in addition to an overall winner selected from Senior class
participants. Contact: Heather Greene ([email protected])
Miss Sakamow Pageant: A long-standing tradition at RHS, where 10 girls nominated from each
class compete in a formal beauty pageant in January. No fee for entry. Prize is $200 that is
encouraged to be used toward college. Look for announcements in advisor/advisee classes late
in the fall regarding the nomination process. Faculty Contact: Lindsey Beam
Mister Riverside: A casual pageant for men that includes a great deal of humor, and usually
held after the holiday break. This year’s pageant will be January 18. Class members nominate
their peers to represent their class. Each class is given a theme that participants use to create
attire, answer questions, and perform a group dance. There is also a formalwear component.
Each class has a winner, in addition to an overall winner selected from Senior class participants.
Faculty Contact: Heather Greene ([email protected])
Mu Alpha Theta: A math honor society for students who are in Algebra II or higher. Members
meet at least once a month to discuss types of math and prepare for competitions that include the
Clemson Calculus Challenge in April. Members can also take the AMC test in February for
college application purposes. Look for announcements in the fall to join. Students must have a
GPA TBD in math. Fee: $15 for new members/$5 for returning members. Faculty Contact:
Robin Chandler ([email protected])
National Art Honor Society: Designed to inspire and recognize students who have shown
outstanding abilities in art, while supporting members to attain the highest standards in art and
bring visual arts education to the attention of RHS & the community. Members must have
completed one semester of art and have an art GPA of B or higher. Membership is based upon art
scholarship, service, and character. Dues: $7 and complete 12 service hours in specific visual arts
projects, activities and fundraisers. Seniors can purchase honors cord ($13). Members may
remain active even if no visual arts class sits on their current schedule, as long as they pay dues
and participate. Faculty Sponsors: Rachelle Bianchi ([email protected]) Watch for
school announcements and Ms. Bianchi’s website for information. Once students join,
communication will be through Google Classroom and Remind Text.
National Honor Society (NHS): A national, honorary organization based on character,
leadership, scholarship, and service. Membership is by application-only for upper classmen.
GPA requirements will increase in the next couple of years to reflect the new grade scale.
Students inducted prior to Aug. 2017 need to maintain a 4.0 GPA. Those inducted during 2017-
18 must maintain a 4.25. Those inducted beginning in 2018-19 need to maintain a 4.5 GPA.
Beginning in Aug. 2017, new applicants will have to be enrolled in at least two courses that are
Honors, AP, or Dual Credit levels (beginning in 9th grade.) Applications for juniors and seniors
are due in early September and membership is pending application. Teachers will review the
applicants based on character, leadership and service. Meetings vary in day and length several
times per year in the auditorium. Fees: $12. Look for school announcements. Faculty Contact:
Susan Candee ([email protected])
NCTE Achievement Awards in Writing: The Achievement Awards in Writing are conferred by
the National Council of Teachers of English in recognition of excellence in writing. Based on
current enrollment numbers, the English Dept. nominates three juniors, who submit two writing
samples (Best & Themed). “Best” can be any genre, or combination of genres. “Themes” is
prose, based on a topic developed by the Achievement Awards Advisory Committee. Faculty
Contact: Mary Margaret Delap ([email protected]) www.NCTE.org/awards
Parent Teacher Student Association (PTSA): The primary group parents can join to support
and assist all students and faculty at RHS. Specific events vary from year-to-year, but all focus
on supporting public schools, students and the community. All RHS parents and students are
encouraged to join. A major membership drive takes place in fall, but people can register at any
time for $5. The PTSA board meets once a month (non-board members are permitted to attend).
General meetings are held several times a year. PPU: PTSA “e-blast” emails (register on the
bottom-right corner of the school website’s home-page). PTA President: Kelle Corvin
([email protected]) Website: RHSPTSA.com
Parent Volunteers: RHS is proud to have the hardest working parents in South Carolina! While
opportunities exist on many levels at The Reservation, perhaps the easiest way to get plugged in
is to volunteer through the PTSA. Posts are available on jobs as simple as planting flowers and
working the school store, to working with major committees and events. Behind every
successful student is an involved parent. PTSA Contact: Coleman Parham
Powder Puff Football: A long-standing RHS tradition, a flag football tournament for girls at
The Reservation on the first Friday of December. Each class has a team coached by RHS football
players, and practices in the days leading up to the games. This event is a fundraiser and the
Advisory Committee determines where the funds go. Sign-ups typically start in mid-September.
Fee: @$40 and includes a jersey. Sign-up is publicized on student announcements, hand-outs, the
Advisory Committee, and RHS Athletic Booster Club emails. Faculty Advisor: Mary Anna
Elsey ([email protected]) Room: G-116
PRIDE of Riverside Colorguard/Winterguard: The Colorguard provides a striking
visual component to the Pride of Riverside Marching Band. The Colorguard interprets
the live music and performs with a synchronized spinning of flags, sabres, rifles, and
other choreographed movements. While the Colorguard, and Winterguard, often share
many members, they are separate entities. Colorguard auditions take place in May and
are open to all students. Our back-to-back State Champion Winterguard performs
indoors, during the winter, or spring season. Instead of performing alongside the
marching band, the Winterguard selects its own music and performs exclusively.
Winterguard rehearses twice per week, beginning in December. Competitions are held
around the state on select Saturdays during the Spring semester. Winterguard auditions
take place in November and are open to all students. Fee: @$325 (Colorguard); @$200
(Winterguard) Director: Mr. Kris Bence Advisor/Choreographer: Ms. Megan Wright
PRIDE of Riverside Concert Band: The Concert Band is open to wind, and percussion,
students of high-level instrumental performance ability who have completed the middle
school band sequence (or at least two years of middle school band with a director
recommendation). This course includes basic high school concert band repertoire at the
Grade 4 level (out of 6). The Riverside High School Concert Band is the first level of
wind band offered at RHS, and has earned “Superior” band performance assessment
distinctions. Concert Band rehearses during daily class meetings, with occasional after-
school dress rehearsals. Director: Mr. Kris Bence
PRIDE of Riverside Marching Band: One of the most visible organizations on campus, the
PRIDE of Riverside Marching Band serves as the musical ambassadorial body for RHS. PRIDE
is comprised of Wind, Percussion, and Colorguard elements. Spring training and auditions take
place in May, and band camp begins in the last week of July. PRIDE rehearses after school on
Mondays, Tuesdays, and Thursdays (4:15-6:30), performs at Riverside varsity football games,
and competes across the state on select Saturdays during the Fall. (Students interested in wind,
and percussion, instrument roles must have completed at least two years of middle school
band.) All students enrolled in band classes are automatically members of the marching group,
unless they are medically waived, or participate in a conflicting SCHSL-sanctioned Fall sport at
Riverside High School. Fee: @$325/year. Director: Mr. Kris Bence
PRIDE of Riverside Wind Ensemble: This Wind Ensemble is open to select wind, and
percussion, students of superior instrumental performance ability, and is by audition only. This
group includes advanced wind ensemble repertoire, and is the highest level of wind band offered
at RHS. This course is preceded by Concert Band. The Riverside High School Wind Ensemble
has earned “SUPERIOR” distinctions in state-level concert band performance assessments and
out-of-state featured-ensemble performance opportunities. Wind Ensemble rehearses during daily
class meetings, with occasional after-school dress rehearsals. Director: Mr. Kris Bence
PRIDE of Riverside Winter Percussion Ensemble: Winter Percussion Ensemble is a combined
battery percussion and pit ensemble, providing students with an opportunity to learn and
improve their rudimental drumming and mallet percussion skills. Battery instrumentation
includes snare, multi-tenor drums, and the bass drum line. Pit instrumentation includes mallet
instruments (marimba, xylophone, vibraphone, chimes, and bells), concert battery instruments
(snare, bass drum, cymbals, concert toms), timpani, and auxiliary percussion as needed. Winter
Percussion Ensemble rehearses twice per week beginning in December, and continue through the
Spring. Performances take place at local Indoor Percussion competitions. Auditions take place in
November, and are open to students who have prior percussion/piano/guitar experience, and
music reading skills through the middle school level. Fee: $240 Director: Mr. Kris Bence Advisor/Composer-Arranger: Mr. Jim Irish
Project Clubs: Each class has its own Project Club that organizes activities and represents its
students at various events, including Homecoming and Spirit Week. Membership is open to all
within that class. See Project Club information under the class listings below.
PSAT: A preliminary test taken prior to the SAT. In the past, the state has paid for all
sophomores to take the PSAT during school on a Wednesday in mid-October. Juniors can and
should take the PSAT for $16-$17. Prior to winter break, all students receive their results, as well
as their score sheet, and test book. Contact: Cathy Derrick ([email protected], 355-
7818) Collegeboard.org
Reflections: The Reflections Arts Competition is a PTSA-sponsored program designed to
encourage students to explore their talents and express themselves. In early October, students
submit original works to reflect a specific theme in: visual arts, photography, literature, music
composition, film/video and dance. Winning entries move from council to district to state level
for judging. PTSA Chair: Amy Devolve ([email protected]) Faculty Contacts: Rachelle
Bianchi ([email protected]) Amanda Wald ([email protected]) Students
should watch for announcements at school and on the school website for the theme and deadlines.
Representative (Rep): One of five committees that comprise the Riverside Student Association
(Student Council). Representative Committee provides a voice from each homeroom to
the Student Council, and the school. The president of Representative Committee holds a
seat in Executive Committee and holds a Student Body Office. Students may apply
through application and teacher recommendations for membership. An at-large
committee is chosen through applications, as well as a specific member to represent each
class. Representative Committee participates in various Student Council activities and is
responsible for the raising and lowering of the flag, yearly Food Drive and secret
Teacher/Student Pals. Faculty Advisor: Cindy Armstrong
RHS Athletic Booster Club (Booster Club): The backbone of all athletic teams, providing both
spirit and financial support to foster the development of student athletes and maintain high-
quality athletic programs. The booster club hosts a variety of social and fund-raising events
across the year, including an annual Oyster Roast in the spring. All proceeds go directly to the
athletic department and benefit all sports, boys and girls. Anyone can join at various membership
levels that include year-long sports passes to all home-games. The booster club has organizational
meetings once a month at member’s homes. Faculty Contact: Athletic Director Murray Long
([email protected]) President: Rick Woods ([email protected], (864)325-
1994) Communications: Stephanie Wright ([email protected],
[email protected]) PPU: Instagram @RHSBoosterClub, facebook: Riverside Warrior
Booster Club, Twitter: @RHSWarriorClub Eblast: text AthleticeBlast to
22828. Website: http://www.greenvillecountyathletics.com/page/show/654521-riverside-booster-
club.
RHS Band Booster Club (Band Booster Club): A group dedicated to promoting, and
supporting the PRIDE of Riverside Marching Band, PRIDE of Riverside Concert Band,
PRIDE of Riverside Wind Ensemble, PRIDE of Riverside Winter Percussion
Ensemble, and PRIDE of Riverside Colorguard/Winterguard. The Band Booster Club
organizes fundraising events throughout the year, including an annual fruit sale to ensure band
programs are accessible to every student who wants to participate. The Band Booster Club also
provides the logistical support required for over 35 public performances by The Pride every
year. Advisor: Mr. Kris Bence Website: PrideOfRiverside.org.
RHS Counseling Department: Serves students with academic, personal, and social concerns.
All counselors have an open door policy and welcome students. Reference the Student Survival
Guide and www.greenville.k12.sc.us/riverside/guidance. Contact: Director Cathy Derrick
([email protected], 355-7818)
Registrar: Kristie Garrett ([email protected], 355-7804)
Receptionist: Heather Gordeev, ([email protected], 355-8197)
Margie Hintalla (Freshmen) ([email protected], 355-7817),
Donna Blevins (Sophomores) ([email protected], 355-7852),
Becky Rogers (Juniors) ([email protected], 355-8192)
William Sumerel (Seniors) ([email protected], 355-7816)
Special Projects: Allison Peasley ([email protected], 355-7819),
Twitter: @RHSWarriorGuide Instagram: RHS School Counselor, Facebook: RHS School
Counseling
Riverside High School Orchestra: Warrior Strings is currently comprised of 82 string
musicians who study a variety of literature ranging from classical to modern eras and perform
numerous concerts and festivals throughout the year. The orchestra has recently performed at the
Biltmore Estate, Festival Disney in Orlando, and even the State House in Columbia. The
orchestra is open to any student who has at least 3 years of training, or is studying
privately. Membership is by audition, involving 2 pieces of contrasting styles of music, two 2-
octave major & minor scales, as well as site-reading. Fee: None, however, concert attire will
need to be purchased before the first fall concert. Director: Conductor Ashley Roden
([email protected]) Members receive updates through group emailed newsletters.
Riverside High Step Team: A team of male and female participants who choreograph and
perform percussion-like stomp routines at pep rallies, RHS sporting events, as well as in the
community. Tryouts are in the fall for 9th-12th graders, running 3 days, with the last day in front
of a panel of teachers, advisors, and alumni. The Step Team season runs September to February.
Members must maintain passing grades and have no disciplinary offenses. Dues: $15 and
participants must participate in fundraisers to purchase team gear discount, or pay full price.
Practices are primarily Tuesdays and Thursdays (and subject to change) on campus. PPU:
Edmodo and texting for members. Faculty Advisors: Rachelle L. Bianchi
Riverside Public Relations (RPR): One of five committees that comprise the Riverside Student
Association (Student Council). Responsible for leading the Pledge of Allegiance and moment
of silence each day at RHS. This group is made up of elected class secretaries and RPR
representatives. Faculty Advisor: Kapp Abbott ([email protected], 355.7892)
Student Body Rep: Gabby Mylander, Student Body Secretary: Hannah Lukanic, Senior Class
Secretary: Kiro Morkos, Junior Class Secretary: Alexis Celaya, Junior Rep: Cailey Moore,
Sophomore Class Secretary: Paris Burgess, Sophomore Rep: Jeffrey Zhou, Freshmen Rep: TBA
Riverside Student Association (Student Council): Consists of five committees: Advisory,
Executive (Exec), Representative, Central Spirit (CSC) and Riverside Public Relations
(RPR). Each committee operates independent of the others, but coordinates through Exec.
Elections and appointments to the committees for rising sophomores, juniors and seniors are in
March. In-coming freshmen are elected and appointed once school begins in the fall. Each
position on all committees involves a one-year commitment. Those interested in appointed
positions should contact Heather Greene ([email protected]) after Winter Break for
the upcoming year. Information on elections is included in the daily announcements that are also
listed on the school website.
Robotics: This club is open to any student interested in learning robotics using Lego
robotics kits. Members meet in M103 during 6th period, or after school to run cool and
exciting robotics programs. Faculty Advisor: Mary Grace Pineda
Sadie Hawkins: Back after a long absence, Sadie Hawkins has grown in popularity the past few
years and is one of RHS’s best-attended dances. It is a girl-ask-boy event that is organized by
Exec as part of fall Spirit Week. This year’s dance will be held October 21. Look for ticket sale
information during daily announcements. Faculty Contact: Heather Greene
Sakamow Yearbook: A select group of students create, market, and distribute the annual
Sakamow Yearbook. Membership is limited and for 10th-12th grade students by application and
English Teacher-recommendation only during registration process. This group meets as a class
daily during the school year. All students, parents, and community are encouraged to submit
photos and information to the Sakamow. Parent of seniors also have the opportunity to purchase
ad space for their children in the back of the yearbook in the fall (check daily announcements.)
Faculty Advisor: Katrina Hester ([email protected])
School Store: Located off the T-Mall and open at various hours during, and after school. Run by
PTSA volunteers, the school store offers in small quantities school supplies, spirit items and
snacks. Parent Volunteers: Michelle Doherty ([email protected])
Senior Smoke Signals: Monthly newsletter for seniors with important information regarding
dates, deadlines, and local scholarship opportunities. SSS is posted September through April on-
line, in English class, the Senior Counselor office door, and a scanable QR code posted on the
Counseling Bulletin Board in the T-Mall. PPU: Twitter: @RHSWarriorGuide facebook: RHS
School Counseling. Web: Greenville.k12.sc.us/riverside/main.asp?titleid=gsmokesignals.
Faculty Advisor: William Sumerel ([email protected], 355-7816)
The Sequoia: Riverside’s art & literary magazine, providing all students with a medium to
publish original poetry, fiction, non-fiction, and art. The Sequoia staff accepts submissions
throughout the year, reviews these submissions anonymously, and publishes the magazine each
May. Students who have taken the Creative Writing 1 course can take Creative Writing 2, the
class responsible for the magazine’s production. Submission to the magazine does not include a
fee or cost. Faculty Advisor: Heather Greene ([email protected]) Website:
https://sites.google.com/a/greenvilleschools.us/rhssequoia/
Service Learning: Program through which students serve in volunteer placements Monday
through Thursday in the community, during school hours. This is a registered course available to
juniors and seniors. Students are selected in February and March during the application process,
which weighs their attendance, tardies, and behavior. Presently, Service Learners volunteer at
National Healthcare, Oakleaf, Woodland Elementary, Buena Vista Elementary, Taylors
Elementary, Greer Community Ministries, Riverside Middle Special Education and Riverside
Special Education. Students must provide their own transportation; however, a car is not a
necessity as carpooling is utilized. Faculty Advisor: Mrs. Elsey ([email protected])
Sociedad Honoraria Hispanica/Spanish Honor Society: Puerta Del Sol: Open to juniors and
seniors who have completed two years of high school Spanish with a cumulative 3.5 GPA from
those Spanish courses. Also must have a 3.5 overall GPA. Meetings vary in day and length on
campus, and include a charitable donation in the fall and a school project in the spring. Read
morning announcements for news. $10 fee for new members/$5 for returning members. Faculty
Advisors: Mrs. Kelsey Johnson ([email protected], 355-7886) Bethany Enjaian
Special Education: RHS is proud to provide support for the varied educational needs of all stude
nts. Riverside offers multiple Self-Contained classes, Educational Support / Resource classes,
Cotaught classes, along with Speech, Vision, and Counseling services. For qualifying
information and specifics on these services, please reference the RHS Survival Guide and Master
Catalog. Students who do not have an IEP and are struggling significantly with their coursework
can be referred to the Assistance Team to determine if they have a disability and need Special
Education support. Parents can contact Carrie Fussell ([email protected]) or their
child’s Guidance Counselor for more information.
Special Olympics: RHS is honored to provide volunteers who help RHS Special Needs students
and others compete in the Spring Games at Furman University. Our volunteers come from all of
the Psychology classes, Teacher Cadets, and Service Learning. A fee of $15+ covers the cost
of two field trips, and a T-shirt and helps pay for Special Olympic medals. In March, volunteers
take a field trip to Washington Center to tour the facility and meet their athlete. The spring
Special Olympic Games are held at Furman in April. Faculty Contact: Mary Anna Elsey
Speech & Debate Team: This team offers students the opportunity to be become better, clearer,
more imaginative communicators through a variety of speaking, reading, acting and debating
events. The team operates under the National Speech and Debate Association and has been
recognized as a School of Honor (2013) and School of Excellence (2014). The team has won six
consecutive state championships from 2012-2017. Membership is open to all students, who are
encouraged to participate in the team summer camp from July 31 to August 11, 2017 (Contact
Mr. Dejesa about registration). Registration for the new season is at the start of each school
year. Fee: $300 a year for entry fees and travel. $25 NFL membership to join the National
Forensic League. Practices are Tues. & Thurs., 6-8:30pm. Tournaments are Sat. and a few
involve overnight stays. Faculty Advisor: David Dejesa ([email protected], 355-
7842) PPU: email for members. Facebook: RHS Speech Community Web: RHSForensics.com.
Spirit Week: Our fall Spirit Week will run October 20-27. This is an exciting week each fall
where students and adults are encouraged to participate in a variety of events to raise spirit and
funding for an outside charity. Events typically include a 5k, carnival, dance, and more. Last
year’s fall Spirit Week recipient was the Lachlan McIntosh Tannery Foundation ($74,000). This
year’s recipient will be Habitat for Humanity. Exec organizes all of the events and selects a
charity to receive money raised. Faculty Advisor: Heather Greene
([email protected]) Student Council Pres.: Haley Meltzer PPU: Facebook: RHS
Spirit Twitter: @RHS_Spiritweek
Teacher Cadet Program: This is a dual credit course that partners with North Greenville
University, providing hands-on classroom experience for those interested in pursuing a career in
education. The Teacher Cadets Class is affiliated with The Center for Educator Recruitment,
Retention and Advancement and is open to seniors with a 3.5 GPA and in good standing with the
School. Juniors are invited to apply for their senior year in a process that involves an essay,
teacher recommendations, a credential review and discipline records check. Admission is not
guaranteed. Those accepted will work at Buena Vista Elementary, as well as assist with the
Special Olympics. Faculty Contact: Julie Faulk ([email protected])
Tribal Talks: A list detailing groups, activities and events at RHS, providing a brief overview
for each, along with contacts and places to seek more information. This is a fluid document that
is always changing, as groups and activities change, and students move on and graduate. Tribal
Talks is available on the RHS website: http://greenville.k12.sc.us/riverside/index.asp. PPU:
Facebook: Riverside High School. Insta: @RiversideWarriors If you would like your group to be
listed in Tribal Talks, or need information changed for a group you oversee, please contact
Stephanie Trotter ([email protected]).
Tri-M Music Honor Society: Current music students have the opportunity to join this national,
honorary organization and volunteer in the music arena. They must audition in the spring and
maintain an A average. Fees: Seniors/$22 (includes graduation cord), Underclassmen/$5. PPU
for members: Remind 101. Faculty Advisor: Donna Fowler ([email protected],
355-7828)
Warrior Nation: Spotlights the RHS Warrior and 300+ students, promoting school unity and
spirit. Anyone can become a member at the beginning of the school year by purchasing the
current year’s spirit t-shirt at orientation. Members earn points by attending various school
activities; sports, band, chorus, debate, etc. Warrior Nation in return hosts tailgates before
football games to all members at no cost and lunch at the end of each semester for those earning
25 or more points. PPU: Snapchat: RHS_WN Twitter: @RHS_WN, Instagram:
@RHS_WarriorN. Faculty Advisors: Kelly Ackerman ([email protected]
Warrior of the Month: Recognition program for first time 9th grade students. Each month,
teachers nominate freshmen for this esteemed award based upon good character, grades, zero
discipline issues, and leadership potential. Students are honored at a special luncheon. Faculty
Advisors: Ms. Hintalla ([email protected], 355-7817) Mrs. Austin
([email protected], 355-7800)
Welcoming Warriors: This organization seeks to welcome new students to Riverside. We invite
students who move into our area from another county, another state, or another
country. Members host a New Student Meet & Greet a day or two before the first day of
school. Welcoming Warriors student leaders continue to offer support and friendship to these
new Warriors throughout the school year. New students can join at any time, but the New
Student Meet & Greet is in August every year. Applications for student leaders are available
from Mrs. Rogers. No fees to join. Faculty Advisor: Becky Rogers
([email protected]). To join our Remind text group, text @2k7724 to 81010.
Youth in Government (YIG): Students play the role of state legislators, senators, attorneys, and
more in a mock government setting. YIG culminates with a conference in Columbia in
Nov. There are also other various conferences and opportunities throughout the year for
members to stay plugged in. Open to any student interested in the legislative and judicial process
who maintains a B average, is not failing a class, does not have excessive absences, and does not
have any referrals. Members meet Sunday afternoons Aug.-Dec. Students will also help with the
Sakamow pageant in January. Advisors: Lindsey Beam - Mock Trial and
Campaigns ([email protected]), David Rhodes - Legislators
([email protected]) Fee: @$530 a year. PPU: Twitter: @WarriorYIG PPU:
Instagram: @warrioryig PPU: https://sites.google.com/a/greenvilleschools.us/ljbeam/youth-in-
government PPU: Text @rhsyig to 81010 for updates and reminders via text message
SENIORS
After Prom: For more than ten years, the Riverside community has provided a welcoming,
substance-free, safe, and entertaining experience after prom. The event is open to all RHS seniors
(and their dates) whether they attend prom or not. This private event is planned, implemented,
and chaperoned by parents, independent of RHS, and completely separate from the official
Riverside Prom. In years past, Frankie's Fun Park has served as the venue. The After Prom
Committee is open to any senior parent who wishes to be involved. Tickets are sold during school
hours in the weeks leading up to Prom. At this time, the After Prom Committee is
seeking dedicated parents who are willing to commit to specific tasks during the
planning phase. If interested contact: Michelle Huskamp at [email protected].
Class Officers: Elected in the spring, these officers represent this class on Exec. President:
Marianne Alonso, Vice President: Su Park, Secretary: Kiro Morkos, Exec. Member: Jack Woods.
Parent Email: As Seniors plan and host events across the year, there are times they may need
supplies and/or organizational help from parents. If you would like to receive emails with their
aid request, please email [email protected].
Project Club 2018: Open to all members of the Class of 2018 to participate in activities to create
unity and raise funds for prom, graduation, senior breakfast, etc. Becoming a member is a great
way to get to know your classmates and to help in a vital part of your senior year. Organizational
meetings are primarily held before and after school. During Homecoming, Project Club is
responsible for building the senior class float. Other major class projects will take place during
Spirit Weeks. Fee: $5. Faculty Advisor: Amanda Wald ([email protected]) PPU:
Group text for members.
Prom: Dance held off campus in the spring for seniors and their dates. Tickets will be sold
during school hours. Listen for announcements beginning in mid-spring.
Senior Smoke Signals: Monthly newsletter for seniors with important information regarding
dates, deadlines, and local scholarship opportunities. SSS is posted September through April on-
line, in English class, the Senior Counselor office door, and a scanable QR code posted on the
Counseling Bulletin Board in the T-Mall. PPU: Twitter: @RHSWarriorGuide facebook: RHS
School Counseling. Web: Greenville.k12.sc.us/riverside/main.asp?titleid=gsmokesignals.
Faculty Advisor: William Sumerel ([email protected], 355-7816)
Senior Texts: Seniors and their parents are encouraged to register for the Remind Text
Messaging offered through the Riverside Counseling Department. Texts will cover important dates, deadlines and announcements. To receive messages via text, text @Warrior18 to
81010. To receive messages via email, send an email to [email protected]. Remind is a
one-way text messaging and email system. All personal information remains completely
confidential. Counselors will never see your phone number, nor will you ever see theirs.
JUNIORS
Class Officers: Elected in the spring, these officers represent this class on Exec. President: Tate
Bowers, Vice President: Andrew Brown, Secretary: Alexis Celaya, Exec. Member: Brody
O’Brien, RPR: Cailey Moore.
Project Club 2019: Open to all members of the Class of 2019 to participate in activities to create
unity and raise funds for prom, graduation, senior breakfast, etc. Becoming a member is a great
way to get to know your classmates and to help in a vital part of your junior year. Organizational
meetings are primarily held before and after school. During Homecoming, Project Club is
responsible for building the junior class float. Other major class projects will take place during
Spirit Weeks. Fee: $10. Faculty Advisor: Marley McDonough
([email protected]) and Vickie Bartlett ([email protected])
PPU: Group text for members.
SOPHOMORES
Class Officers: Elected in the spring, these officers represent this class on Exec. President:
Chelsi Bailey, Vice President: Caitlyn Marler, Secretary: Paris Burgess, Exec. Member: Claire
Ambrose, RPR Member: Jeffrey Zhou.
Project Club 2020: Open to all members of the Class of 2020 to participate in activities to create
unity and raise funds for prom, graduation, senior breakfast, etc. Becoming a member is a great
way to get to know your classmates and to help in a vital part of your sophomore year.
Organizational meetings are primarily held before and after school. During Homecoming, Project
Club is responsible for building the sophomore class float. Other major class projects will take
place during Spirit Weeks. Fee: $20. Faculty Advisor: Lindsey Beam
([email protected]) and April Raymond ([email protected]) PPU: Text
@rhscof20 to 81010 for reminders and updates.
FRESHMAN
Class Officers: Elected in the fall, these officers represent this class on Exec.
Project Club 2021: Open to all members of the Class of 2021 to participate in activities to create
unity and raise funds for prom, graduation, senior breakfast, etc. Becoming a member is a great
way to get to know members of your class and to help in a vital part of your freshman year.
Organizational meetings are primarily held before school. During Homecoming, Project Club is
responsible for building the freshmen class float. Other class projects will take place during
Spirit Weeks. Fee: $5. Faculty Advisor: TBA In the meantime, contact Sylvia Hodge
([email protected]) PPU: Group text for members.
FAMILY, FRIENDS, FACULTY & ALUMNI
Announcements: Written forms of Daily Announcements presented to students at RHS can be
found at www.greenville.k12.sc.us/riverside/announce/daily.asp.
Parent Teacher Student Association (PTSA): The primary group parents can join to support
and assist all students and faculty at RHS. Specific events vary from year-to-year, but all focus
on supporting public schools, students and the community. All RHS parents and students are
encouraged to join. A major membership drive takes place in fall, but people can register at any
time for $5. The PTSA board meets once a month (non-board members are permitted to attend).
General meetings are held several times a year. PPU: PTSA “e-blast” emails (register on the
bottom-right corner of the school website’s home-page). PTA President: Kelle Corvin
([email protected]) Website: RHSPTSA.com
Parent Volunteers: RHS is proud to have the hardest working parents in South Carolina! While
opportunities exist on many levels at The Reservation, perhaps the easiest way to get plugged in
is to volunteer through the PTSA. Posts are available on jobs as simple as planting flowers and
working the school store, to working with major committees and events. Behind every
successful student is an involved parent. PTSA Contact: Coleman Parham
RHS Athletic Booster Club (Booster Club): The backbone of all athletic teams, providing both
spirit and financial support to foster the development of student athletes and maintain high-
quality athletic programs. The booster club hosts a variety of social and fund-raising events
across the year, including an annual Oyster Roast in the spring. Anyone can join at various
membership levels that include year-long sports passes to all home-games; Adults/$65,
Students/$40, Jr. Warrior (5th grade and younger)/$20. The booster club has organizational
meetings once a month at member’s homes. Faculty Contact: Athletic Director Murray Long
([email protected]) President: Rick Woods ([email protected], (864) 325-
1994 ) Communications: Stephanie Wright ([email protected],
[email protected]) PPU: Instagram @rhsboosterclub, facebook: Riverside Warrior Booster
Club, Twitter: @RHSWarriorClub, eblast: text AthleticeBlast to 22828 to sign up for this.
Weekly Email: Receive the weekly email with schedules, results, photos and more. Text
AthleticBlast to 22828 and it will prompt for your email address.
RHS Band Booster Club (Band Booster Club): A group dedicated to promoting, and
supporting the PRIDE of Riverside Marching Band, PRIDE of Riverside Concert Band,
PRIDE of Riverside Wind Ensemble, PRIDE of Riverside Winter Percussion
Ensemble, and PRIDE of Riverside Colorguard/Winterguard. The Band Booster Club
organizes fundraising events throughout the year, including an annual fruit sale to ensure band
programs are accessible to every student who wants to participate. The Band Booster Club also
provides the logistical support required for over 35 public performances by The Pride every
year. Advisor: Mr. Kris Bence Website: PrideOfRiverside.org.
School Improvement Council (SIC): Council of parents who meet the second Tuesday of each
month at 5pm in the Media Conference room to discuss upcoming events and school issues.
Council is appointed and membership lasts until parent has child who graduates. Faculty
Advisor: Principal Andy Crowley ([email protected]) Contact: Sylvia Hodge
If you would like your group to be listed in Tribal Talks, or need information changed for a
group you oversee, please contact Stephanie Trotter ([email protected]).