OCTOBER 24, 2025 EDition
OCTOBER 24, 2025 EDition
Embedded Files
Teacher Spotlight - Jason Lowrey
Our teachers bring incredible passion and talent to the classroom every day and that’s just the beginning of who they are. Each month, we’ll spotlight one of our amazing staff members to celebrate their lives beyond school walls; their hobbies, interests, talents, families, and the things that make them who they are. We’re excited to share the whole person behind the profession!
This month, we’re thrilled to highlight one of our talented science teachers, Mr. Lowrey! When he’s not sparking curiosity in the classroom, Mr. Lowrey can be found on stage performing with his Americana band. A gifted musician, he plays both the banjo and guitar and lends his voice as a singer. His band performs throughout the Front Range, bringing their unique sound and energy to local audiences. We’re proud to celebrate Mr. Lowrey’s creativity and passion, both in and out of the classroom!
Halloween Costume Guidelines
Students wanting to embrace the spirit of Halloween by dressing up in a costume are permitted to do so. To ensure that everyone enjoys a safe Halloween, we want to share some important guidelines to consider when choosing a costume (NOTE: The following guidelines will be enforced during the school day and at all RVHS activities and athletic events scheduled for Halloween evening.)
Safe Learning Environment: School personnel must be able to identify students and obstructing the face is not permitted. No costume masks, face painting, and inflatable costumes will be allowed.
Mind the Dress Code: Costume attire should adhere to the school's dress code. Clothing must still be school-appropriate and not overly revealing.
No Weapons or Prop Replicas: For the safety of all students and staff, avoid costumes that include weapons (fake or real).
We appreciate your cooperation in adhering to these guidelines and promoting a safe, welcoming learning environment (and experience in supporting RVHS athletics).
2024-25 Student Score Reports in Student Insights
Student Insights is a resourceful tool for K-12 families and students in grades 6-12 to view current and historical assessment data and plans that are applicable to your student.
2024-25 student score reports are now available electronically in Student Insights.
Log in to Student Insights here using your Infinite Campus parent portal login credentials to view the following applicable* information:
PSAT & SAT results - 2024-25 results now available
Colorado Measures of Academic Success (CMAS) - 2024-25 results now available
Colorado Alternate Assessment/Dynamic Learning Maps (CoAlt/DLM) - 2024-25 results now available
ACCESS for ELLs results - 2024-25 results now available
MAP Growth results
READ Plan goals and supports
Advanced Learning Plan (ALP) goals and programming supports
Graduation requirements progress report
High School Transcript Grades
Click here to learn more about Student Insights and here to learn more about our state and district assessments.
*Available data listed above is based on student grade levels and programming.
If you would prefer to receive a paper score report, please email Kristen Hogan, School Assessment Coordinator, at kristen.hogan@jeffco.k12.co.us. The deadline to request a paper report is Friday, November 21st.
Alkire Street Construction
The City of Arvada will soon begin construction on a new sidewalk along Alkire. Work is scheduled to begin October 27th and is expected to last into March. Work will be mostly on the east side of Alkire St. from 78th to 80th. The bike/pedestrian lane on the west/southbound side will be closed during construction as this project builds a real sidewalk along that side. All pedestrian and bike traffic will be directed along the east/northbound side and the lane will be marked with traffic cones for the duration of the project. Students are directed to use the Alkire St. to the east side only.
There will be one-lane closures with flaggers on Alkire during much of the project. Work hours will be 8AM to 2:30PM and 3:30PM to 6PM.
For more information about the project, visit arvadaco.gov/alkirestreet
Thank you for your patience and understanding as this important improvement project is completed.
Sponsor Partnerships
Sponsor Partnerships
Advertise your business with us! We have digital and static signage options available within a variety of sponsorship packages on our new video board in the gym. Your business logo will be displayed digitally during our home athletic contests and other events in the gym for the community and guests to see. Please reach out to Mike Ackerman or Tony Pergola for more information.
Jeffco Budget Labs
Ralston Valley community – you’re invited to participate in a Jeffco Budget Lab this fall. Budget Labs are interactive, self-guided experiences that invite staff and community members to explore the realities of district and school budgets.
These labs allow you to build your understanding of our budgets through explainer videos, a hands-on budget simulator and opportunities to share your voice. For more information on the virtual budget labs, please click here.
NEW - There will be two in-person Community Budget Labs, no registration required:
Monday, October 27, Arvada High School, 7951 W 65th Ave, Arvada, CO 80004
Wednesday, October 29, Carmody Middle School, 2050 S. Kipling St, Lakewood, CO 80227
Pre-Arranged Absences
Pre-Arranged Absences
In accordance with district policy, absences of one or more days require a Pre-Arranged Absence Form . Criteria for approved absences are listed on the form, and printed copies are available in the attendance office. Submit documents to Elizabeth.Abrams@jeffco.k12.co.us
Parking Information
Parking Information
Any student who wishes to park their vehicle in the RVHS student parking lots, must have a parking tag. All school registration requirements must be met before obtaining a parking tag, including any fees and fines paid. Due to the limited number of parking spaces available, there are a limited number of tags available to purchase.
Seniors and juniors will be allowed to park in the west and southwest parking lot, as long as there are available tags. The north parking lot (off of Alkire) will be available for sophomores and overflow for juniors and seniors.
At this time, parking tags for all lots are sold out. Seniors and juniors should fill out this parking registration form to be put on a waitlist.
Students who have filled out the registration form online and paid the parking fee in Campus, can pick up their parking tag during their off block in the campus security vestibule.
Sophomores who would like to park on campus should fill out this parking registration form. We are currently sold out but students who fill out the registration form will be added to a waitlist and will be contacted if more spaces become available. If a student has paid and filled out the registration form, they can pick up their parking tag during their off block from the campus security vestibule.
All concerns regarding parking passes should be addressed with campus supervisors.
Parking will be enforced and tickets issued for vehicles not properly tagged began on Monday, September 8.
Student Drop Off and Pick Up
Student Drop Off and Pick Up
It is a great time to remind everyone to be thoughtful of our neighbors and student body during drop off and pick up. We must keep the right of way clear for emergency vehicles and through traffic. With only one road to enter and exit a building this size, with this many people, the roads at the school will always be congested. There are a few things we can do as a Ralston Valley community to help make these busy times of day run as smoothly as possible.
Main Entrance - Dismissal is at 3:30 p.m. and we ask that you do not arrive to pick up your student and park in the loop before 3:00 p.m. Please be sure to pull as far forward as you can in the loop at the front of the school when dropping off or picking up your student. This helps to alleviate backups in the roundabout and get as many cars off of 80th Ave. as quickly as possible. Also, please pick up your student on the outside of the loop (closest the the sidewalk), not the inside. We do not want students passing in between cars as this is not safe.
Student Parking Lot - To keep our students safe, please do not park in our student parking lot while you wait to pick up your student(s) after school.
Roundabout on 80th- The roundabout is part of the road. Please do not park in the roundabout while waiting for dismissal time. This blocks the flow of eastbound traffic and prevents traffic exiting to the east from leaving campus as well. Please do not stop and pick up your student in the roundabout or on 80th Ave.
Fire Station - As traffic backs up on southbound Alkire, please be sure to leave room for our first responders to exit the firehouse safely and without obstruction. Do not block the exit of their garage.
82nd Ave. - Please pay attention to posted road signs along 82nd Ave. There are multiple speedbumps on 82nd Ave., making it necessary to go the speed limit or slower to ensure safe driving and prevent damage to your vehicle. There are also multiple No Parking signs along 82nd Ave. next to the school's property. Please do not park there to pick up your student.
Finally, and most importantly, please do not park across the street and ask for your student to run across 80th Ave. to be picked up. This is highly dangerous and we have shared with students that this is not permitted!
Thank you for your continued diligence when driving in and around Ralston Valley.
Traffic Reminders from Arvada Police Department
Please do NOT stop or park in the roundabout on W 80th Ave. until the car line begins to move/flow. Those waiting on the south side of W 80th Ave. just west of the roundabout need to wait there until they see the line begin to move. This usually takes a few minutes after the bell rings so please be patient. Those who attempt to stop or park in the roundabout before the line begins to move will not be allowed to stay there and will be directed to move (by continuing east) or will be ticketed by Arvada PD. This is essential for efficient traffic flow and will help the pick-up process run smoothly. It also helps to keep that area clear for emergency vehicles.
activities
activities
Trick or Treat Street
Ralston Valley's National Honor Society is excited to partner with 20+ teams, activities, and clubs to bring to our community our annual Trick or Treat Street this coming Wednesday, October 29th from 5:30PM to 7:00PM. This annual event gives the youngsters in our community a safe place to trick or treat. It also serves as a canned food drive for the greater Arvada community. Bring at least one canned food item to drop off at the entry to the event. Thank you to all of our NHS volunteers that have worked so hard with our clubs, teams, and activities to make this event
Touchdowns and Turkey Drive with Student Government
Student Government has been asked by Excalibur Outreach to help promote a vital community service project: Touchdowns and Turkey Drive.
This event, which supports families across Arvada, is also a friendly competition between the RV and A-West communities. While our primary goal is to collect as many turkeys as possible for those in need, we are also determined to win back the "Turkey Trophy" from A-West, who has held it for the past four years.
Event Details:
Date: Friday, October 31st
Location: NAAC parking lot - Right before the RV vs A-West League Championship!
Time: Collection Begins at 5:30 p.m.
We recognize that this event falls on Halloween night, a busy time for many families. If you would like to contribute but are unable to drop off a turkey in person, Student Government is happy to help.
Student Government will collect monetary donations (cash) to purchase turkeys on your behalf. Please bring your cash contribution to Jenny Braketa no later than noon on Friday, Oct. 31st!
Please see the attached flyer for more information. Thank you for helping us support this worthy cause.
Mustang Marching Band at Colorado Band Master's State Championship
Ralston Valley's Marching Band had their best performance of the year at the right time. Great job today at the Colorado Band Master's State Championship Quarter Finals! The Air Force Academy is always a beautiful background for this amazing event. Scores will be released later tonight, looking to make a run into the semi-finals. Great job Mustangs!
Speech and Debate Team Off to a Great Season Start
The Speech & Debate Team did an excellent job competing at Strive Prep Smart on Saturday October 18th. The following students received recognition:
-Edoardo de Cesare went Undefeated in Lincoln-Douglas Debate
-Noelle Hilvner received Excellence in Informative Speaking
-Caelyn Criger & Kaylee Vestad received Excellence in Extemporaneous Speaking
RVHS Fall Play - "Clue"
What could be more fun than playing a board game? Going to see Manestage Theatre's production of "Clue" at Ralston Valley! You can catch two showings on November 6th & 7th with a start time will be 7:00 p.m. each night. There will also be two shows on November 8th - a matinee at 1:00 p.m., and the final show at 7:00 p.m. If you choose to buy tickets, we can ensure you two hours of laughter and mystery, and you would have no clue about how happy your presence makes us all!
You can purchase tickets on GoFan by CLICKING HERE
Senior Photos and Baby Ads for Yearbook
Senior photos are due October 31. Our website contains detailed information - start there with any questions AND to submit your photo! Yearbook Website: https://bit.ly/RVHS_YRBK
The early bird deadline for baby ads is also October 31, so don't delay to get the best pricing. We accept baby ads throughout November as long as there is space.
Visit www.theyearbookcompany.com for all the details and to purchase your ad.
PTSA Restaurant Night
Help PTSA support our students and teachers by attending our monthly restaurant night. This month is Chipotle. See the flyer below. Online ordering is available with the code in the flyer.
athletics
athletics
Each week, our Mustangs continue to impress—not just with their performance, but with their leadership, character, and pride in representing Ralston Valley. Their dedication to continual improvement and support for one another truly sets the standard. Let’s celebrate some of the standout moments from this past week in Mustang athletics:
Volleyball - The Mustang Volleyball team faced a challenging week of competition, beginning with a hard-fought matchup against #2-ranked Valor Christian. Despite falling 3–1 on the road, the Mustangs showed poise, resilience, and the ability to push one of the state’s top programs. They bounced back in a big way on Thursday night, dominating Bear Creek in a 3–0 sweep to close out league play on a strong note. Up next, the team will celebrate Senior Night on Tuesday at the Mustang Range against Golden—an opportunity to honor the leadership and commitment of this year’s senior class. Later in the week, RV travels to Colorado Springs for the highly competitive Colorado Invite Tournament, a key tune-up before the start of regional play. The Mustangs continue to gain momentum as they look to make a deep postseason run!
Boys Soccer - The Mustang Soccer team capped off the most successful regular season in program history with a thrilling 1–0 victory over rival Arvada West! Finishing with an incredible 14–0–1 record, the Mustangs have been a model of consistency, teamwork, and defensive dominance all season long. With their undefeated run, RV is poised to earn one of the top seeds in the upcoming 5A State Tournament when brackets are released Monday. The team will host a first-round matchup next Wednesday—likely at 6:00 p.m. at the NAAC—as they begin their pursuit of a state championship. Come out and show your Mustang pride as this special group continues its historic run!
Cross Country - Our Mustang Cross Country team competed at the Regional Championships today at the NAAC, giving their all in pursuit of a spot at the State Meet in Colorado Springs. Several runners posted personal best times, showing tremendous growth and determination throughout the season. Though the team narrowly missed advancing to the state course, their effort and commitment were outstanding. The Mustangs were led by senior Addison Hollmann on the girls’ side and Drake Fankhauser for the boys, both capping off impressive seasons as team leaders. Congratulations to all of our runners on a season filled with progress, perseverance, and Mustang pride!
Football - The RVHS Football team kept their undefeated season alive on Thursday night with a dominant 48–7 win over Denver East. It was a complete team effort, as the Mustangs controlled the game from start to finish on both sides of the ball. Junior quarterback Logan Gabler put together a standout performance, throwing for 238 yards, rushing for 88 more, and accounting for five total touchdowns. Senior wide receiver Nico Benallo was equally impressive, hauling in 134 receiving yards and three touchdowns to power the Mustang offense. With the victory, RV improved to 9–0 and now turns its attention to a marquee matchup next week against crosstown rival Arvada West. The #2-ranked Mustangs will face the #4-ranked Wildcats on Halloween night at 7:30 p.m. at the NAAC, with the league title on the line. Come out and pack the stands for what promises to be an unforgettable night of Mustang football!
Flag Football - The Girls Flag Football team made plenty of noise this past week with an incredible run in the 5A State Tournament! The Mustangs opened play in dominant fashion, defeating league rival Chatfield 29–6 to advance to the quarterfinals. There, they faced Cherry Creek in a thrilling back-and-forth matchup and avenged an early-season loss with a dramatic 26–25 overtime victory. In Wednesday’s semifinal, RV went toe-to-toe with top-ranked Mountain Vista, giving the state’s best team all they could handle before ultimately falling 40–19 in a hard-fought contest. Congratulations to the entire team on an outstanding season filled with growth, resilience, and history-making moments for Mustang Flag Football!
Tickets - Game tickets must be purchased through GoFan for all Jeffco-hosted events. Ticket sales to all Jeffco events in stadiums and in our gym are available through GoFan. Cash is not accepted at the gates for admittance. You are encouraged to download the GoFan App to help you purchase tickets ahead of time for all home events to save you a ton of time at the gate. You can also purchase multiple tickets that are good for the rest of the school year by purchasing a punch pass. Punch passes are good for all Jeffco events, and will save you money.
CLICK HERE to learn more about the online ticketing system.
Sports Performance Support:
Please see our new FREE Sports Performance support information below. Lindsay Anderson will be available on Tuesday and Wednesday afternoons from 3:00 - 5:00 p.m. in the gym area.
National Letter of Intent Day
Has your student committed to participating in collegiate athletics? RVHS will have a National Letter of Intent Signing Day Celebration on November 11th.
Athletes, please stop by the main office by November 7th to speak with Ms. Beauchamp so that we can include you in the celebration. More information will be provided at that time.
Register for Winter Sports
Winter sports registration is now open. If you would like to participate in boys' or girls' basketball, girls' swim & dive, ice hockey or wrestling...please visit the RV Athletics website to register: https://jeffco-ralstonvalley.rst7.rschooltoday.com/
Click on 'REGISTRATION' and choose '2025-2026 Athletic Registration' to register. Please read the instructions and remember that you will need to upload a valid CHSAA physical to the registration.
Deadlines to Register:
Ice Hockey: 3pm on Friday, Nov. 7th
All other winter sports: 3pm on Friday, Nov. 14th
Jersey Mike's Student-Athlete of the Week - October 13th
Courtney Miller deserves recognition because she is balancing being a student athlete and maintaining a job. Courtney commits herself to all areas of life with excellence and diligence. She shows up every day to practice ready to work and get better. Courtney is a great teammate and a strong friend to many around her. We are very proud of her! ~Coach Geissler
Congratulations Courtney!
Jersey Mike's Student-Athlete of the Week - October 6th
"Noah Ramsey is the heart of our golf team. He has performed exceptionally well throughout the season, finishing ranked 38th in the state. At practice, he consistently demonstrates dedication and a strong work ethic, setting the tone for his teammates. He’s the first to offer encouragement when others are struggling and takes pride in supporting the team’s success. Noah’s commitment extends beyond the course—he excels in the classroom as well, valuing his education as highly as his game. From winning tournaments at Applewood to maintaining outstanding grades, Noah embodies humility, kindness, and leadership in all he does." -- Coach Jiana Carroll
Congratulations Noah!
off campus policy
off campus policy
To help keep students as safe as possible, RVHS students are not allowed to walk off campus at any time.
9th-grade students are not allowed off campus at any point during the school day unless they leave with their parents/guardians.
If your 10th-grade student is driving, parents/guardians of 10th-grade students can give permission for their child to leave campus with the expectation that they are following the local and state driving laws. Once this form has been submitted by a parent/guardian, the student must visit the front office to obtain an 'off-campus' sticker for their Student ID.
Please click on this FORM to give your sophomore child the ability to leave campus with your permission. Students with a valid sticker can begin leaving campus during approved periods on Monday, August 25, 2025.
Our campus is not closed to our 11th and 12th grade students and they may leave campus.
Schedule for The Upcoming week
Schedule for The Upcoming week
Monday, Oct. 27 - Silver Day
Tuesday, Oct. 28 - White Day
Wednesday, Oct. 29 - Blue Day
Thursday, Oct. 30 - White Day
Friday, Oct. 31 - Blue Day
Counseling Department
Counseling Department
AP Test Fees
AP Test Fees
If your student is taking one or more AP exams in May and they have not yet paid their fee, the last day to pay without a late fee is Monday, October 27, 2025. After the due date, a $25 late fee will be added. The fee this year is $99 per test and is set by College Board. Please follow the steps below to pay the fee:
If your student is taking one or more AP exams in May and they have not yet paid their fee, the last day to pay without a late fee is Monday, October 27, 2025. After the due date, a $25 late fee will be added. The fee this year is $99 per test and is set by College Board. Please follow the steps below to pay the fee:
Go to: https://ralstonvalley.jeffcopublicschools.org/enroll/registration-fees
Click " visit the fee payment portal" (you will need your student's ID number)
Enter the Student ID# and Last Name and click "Search"
Upcoming College Visits
Upcoming College Visits
Representatives from the following colleges will be in the RVHS Counseling Office on these dates and times:
Representatives from the following colleges will be in the RVHS Counseling Office on these dates and times:
University of Northern Colorado - Tuesday, Oct. 28 - 9:00 a.m.
Texas Christian University - Tuesday, Oct. 28 - 9:00 a.m.
Gonzaga University - Tuesday, Oct. 28 - 11:45 a.m.
Arizona State University, Tempe - Wednesday, Oct. 29 - 9:00 a.m.
Fort Lewis College - Wednesday, Oct. 29 - 9:00 a.m.
Texas A&M University, College Station - Wednesday, Nov. 5 - 11:45 a.m.
Ohio University, Main Campus - Wednesday, Nov. 5 - 1:30 p.m.
RVHS Financial Aid Presentation
RVHS Financial Aid Presentation
For anyone who missed our Financial Aid presentation on Wednesday or for anyone who was there and wanted access to the information, the slideshow is now linked on our website. Click here and then choose "NEW! Financial Aid Presentation from RV's Fall 2025 Financial Aid Night."
For anyone who missed our Financial Aid presentation on Wednesday or for anyone who was there and wanted access to the information, the slideshow is now linked on our website. Click here and then choose "NEW! Financial Aid Presentation from RV's Fall 2025 Financial Aid Night."
National College Fair
National College Fair
The National Association for College Admission Counseling (NACAC) is hosting a national college fair with over 150 colleges and universities from across the country and around the world. Click here for more information and to register.
The National Association for College Admission Counseling (NACAC) is hosting a national college fair with over 150 colleges and universities from across the country and around the world. Click here for more information and to register.
Date: Saturday, October 25, 2025
Time: 1:00 - 4:00 p.m.
Place: CU Boulder - Indoor Practice Facility, 2150 Colorado Ave, Boulder
West Point Admissions Event
West Point Admissions Event
Students who are interested in applying to the U.S. Military Academy at West Point are invited to attend an admissions event where they will discuss what West Point offers, life as a cadet, and the application process. Click here to register.
Students who are interested in applying to the U.S. Military Academy at West Point are invited to attend an admissions event where they will discuss what West Point offers, life as a cadet, and the application process. Click here to register.
Date: Wednesday, October 29, 2025
Time: 6:00 p.m.
Place: Cherry Creek High School, 9300 E. Union Ave., Greenwood Village
Advisement Corner
Advisement Corner
Advisement
Please click HERE to access the course syllabus for Advisement that explains the purpose, key components, and expectations, including grading and attendance.
Next week in 9th and 10th Grade Advisement classes, students and their MMP Leaders will celebrate with a Halloween block party.
Reminder - If your student has Advisement on Thursday mornings, it will be from 8:15 to 9:00 a.m. before the start of Access.
Ralston Valley Happenings
Ralston Valley Happenings
College Representatives at Ralston Valley
Each week, college admissions representatives visit the RV counseling office to meet with prospective students. This is a wonderful opportunity for students to learn more about college majors, scholarships, and opportunities at schools from throughout the country! Tuesday was busy with reps from the University of Oregon and the University of Washington system, both stopping by RV.
Dance Lessons in Spanish Class
Señora Parker taught her Spanish 3 students all about Spanish and Latino music and dance this week. They learned all about salsa, bachata, tango, huapango, reggaetón and more. In addition to learning about the history and origin of each of these styles of music, they learned the basic steps for each!
Fall Academic Awards Night
Senior Corgan Webb served as conductor for the RV Orchestra performance at the Fall Academic Awards on Monday.
Significant Special Needs Class Halloween Craft Fair
Ms. Silburn's students in the SSN program held their annual Halloween Craft Fair this week. Staff and students dropped by to purchase their creations, and it was a great opportunity for the students to practice their money skills.
Two of Ms. Silburn's students, Lydia Triplett and Addie Guildner, were honored last week at Denim and Diamonds Annual Gala, supporting GiGi's Playhouse.
Social Media Pudding Challenge Comes to Ralston Valley
There is a new social media trend spreading across the world: Pudding mit Gabel. It started in August in Austria and Germany and on Tuesday it arrived at RVHS. World Language teachers Frau Blum and Madame Leslie joined about fifty students in the cafeteria to eat pudding with a fork. No one knows how this trend started, but it is a great opportunity for students to meet new friends.
Cartooning in Modern U.S. History
Alan Vitello, a retired editorial cartoonist and Ralston Valley paraprofessional, was an entertaining and informative guest speaker for all 11th grade Modern U.S. History students. He helped them to them better understand the purpose, techniques, and creative process of making editorial cartoons, so that students could then create their own original editorial cartoon on a subtopic of U.S. Imperialism. Alan explained, “You have to know the content well to illustrate irony and analogy…a strong idea can carry a weak drawing but a weak idea can’t carry a strong drawing.”
Science Celebrates End of a Unit
Ms. Reid's Honors Biology students CELL-abrated the end of their unit with an edible cell model party!
Administration
Administration
Ms. Buenning, Principal 303-982-5600
Mr. Pergola, 9th Asst. Principal 303-982-5604
Ms. Hogan, 10th Asst. Principal 303-982-2391
Ms. Abrams, 11th Asst. Principal 303-982-9463
Ms. Young, 12th Asst. Principal 303-982-5713
Mr. Ackerman, Athletic Director 303-982-5595
Mr. Trione, Dean 303-982-7760
Important Links
Important Links
Page updated
Report abuse