A few weeks ago, I had the privilege of supervising the pep band at the varsity football playoff game.  Mr. Snow, the pep band director had to attend a wedding that would not allow him to supervise the students.  In my experience as an educator, most band students would consider this a 'free pass' and be excited to have a football game where they could just be part of the student section without instruments or do something else.  But, that's not the case with students at River Valley.

I received an email from Mr. Snow earlier in the week that said the pep band wanted to play at the football game on Friday night and needed a supervisor (for the record, I was not in band - but can keep a beat and play a solid bass drum).  Their willingness and desire to support their peers on a potentially very cold Friday night in October (it turned out to be 65 degrees) was simply inspiring.  The pep band did an amazing job, and my role as supervisor AND bass drummer was very easy.

While standing in front of the band and the student section, I couldn't help but feel the school and small-town pride all of our students have for River Valley.  The combination of the pep band, student section, cheerleaders, community members, and the football team created an awesome atmosphere.  I feel this pride in our atmosphere on a daily basis in our District - I think it is what sets us apart from other districts.

Students aren't successful without being inspired, having a sense of pride, and being passionate about what they are doing.  Accomplishments so far include: Football team headed to the state championship game for the first time in school history; the RV Equestrian team qualified for state; the RVHS Mock Trial team earned honors at the National competition at Yale University; the River Valley FFA organized and created the best school fair in 53 years; and dozens of students are rehearsing daily for the musical West Side Story!  Our students, staff, and River Valley community have had so much success in the first 10 weeks of school that I can't wait to see what they do over the next 26 weeks!

This inspiration, pride, and passion comes from our staff, families, and parents across the District at River Valley.  It's what sets us apart, and it's what makes our District awesome #LikeAHawk!