Embedded Files
June 22, 1850 would soon become a very important day in regards to the future of Arvada Colorado. On this specific date a gentleman by then name of Lewis Ralston who was born in Pendleton South Carolina in 1804 discovered gold in a stream near present-day Sheridan Boulevard and West 56th Avenue. In honor of Lewis Ralston's discovery, which turned out to be the first documented gold find in Colorado, the stream of which he found the gold was named after him. Lewis Ralston was a part of a of a larger party known as the Greenberry Russell party. This exploration party founded the town of Auraria which eventually became the city of Denver. Lewis Ralston passed away on December 1st 1969 in Lumpkin County Georgia. (Courtesy of Lloyd Correll, School Name Committee)
The Vision:
Ralston Valley High School was designed to house 1,250 students in grades 9-12. With the first year only students in grades 9-11 attended. With approximately 174,000 square feet the building features extensive natural lighting along with wide hallways and stairways. Two Classrooms were located just off the main lobby to accommodate community meetings in the evening. The building was designed to support state-of-the-art technology including voice data and cable in every classroom
Contributing Schools:
Elementary: Sierra, Van Arsdale, West Woods & Coal Creek
Middle School: Oberon & Drake
RVHS Floor Plans
RVHS Floor Plans
Lower Level
RVHS Floor Plans
RVHS Floor Plans
Upper Level
NOW YOU SEE IT:
April 28,1999
Excavation of athletic fields and eventual location of the main building can be identified
The Foundation
is Laid:
June 29th,1999
As the foundation is placed the school outline begins to be established
Paving the Way:
The parking lot was placed and the windows installed which will soon become an iconic view for the Arvada Community
FUN FACT:
The Red Brick House that is just west of Ralston Valley High School on the South side of 80th use to be located where the traffic light is at 80th and Alkire. Due to the home being built in 1910 and possibly a historic landmark the building was relocated to where it is today when 80th Ave was extended to Indiana Street to account for the traffic associated with Ralston Valley High School.
Final Pieces:
April 28, 2000
At the time of this photo the exterior of the building was complete with Finishing walk-throughs being completed.
The local middle and elementary schools were involved in selecting the new high school's colors and mascot. This student engagement created a great way to build school spirit and a sense of community early on.
FUN FACTS: Did you know that
Ralston Valley was formally a working ranch that raised and bread horses?
The Horses used to roam where RVHS currently is located in addition to the North-East Corner of of 80th and Alkire, where homes were eventually built
RVHS
Officially Opens
August 2000
Enrollment: 872 Students
Mascot: Mustangs
Mascot Name: Maverick
School Colors:
Navy Blue, Silver,
Carolina Blue, Columbia Blue
Being a part of the first year of a new High School was a special opportunity for students, staff administration and the the community of Ralston Valley High School.
The Vision of this school community came about long before the construction started: to provide an atmosphere of integrity, honesty, honor, respect, teamwork, support, accountable performance from both students and staff.
The People
Principal: John Donaldson (Second from left)
John Donaldson was named principal of RVHS in February of 1999 after almost 30 years of experience in education. In 1970 his educational journey began as a teacher at Arvada West High School. From there he quickly gained the experience needed to serve as an assistant principal at multiple High Schools including Bear Creek and Standley Lake. Specifically the time he spent as an interim principal at Arvada West High School and his experience as the principal at Standley Lake High School from 1993-1999 strengthened his leadership skills including bringing a wealth of experience to his new role at RVHS. Ultimately his long term commitment to educational was foundational in the future success of opening Ralston Valley High School.
Assistant Principal: Mike Finnefrock
(Second from Right)
Mr. Finnefrock's four years at Dakota Ridge High School as the assistant principal handling scheduling combined with his 16 years in education and a background in Special Education, provided him a understanding of the complexities of opening a new high school. Drawing upon his experiences in Special Education brought a valuable perspective to student support and inclusivity.
Assistant Principal: Rick Gager (First on the Right)
Spending 20 years as a math teacher provided Mr. Gager with a deep understanding of classroom dynamics and student learning. With his transition to an administrative role as a dean at Standley Lake High School two years prior to RVHS opening he gained the necessary experience focusing on student discipline, guidance, and overall school administration.
Assistant Principal: Sue Sanders (First on the Left)
Mrs. Sanders' experience at Alameda High School, specifically as an assistant principal in charge of curriculum and registration, highlighted a focus on the academic and logistical aspects of running a school. Her prior experience as both a teacher and administrator within the Adams 50 School District provided a well-rounded understanding of the educational system from multiple perspectives.
Athletic Director: Jim Hynes (Middle)
Combining Mr.Hynes' role as a Coach for the Arvada West's Girls Varsity Basketball team for 13 years and his role as an assistant principal in charge of activities demonstrated extensive leadership, dedication, and the ability to build a successful team. Prior to his administrative roles he had an 11-year stint as an English teacher showcasing a broad involvement in both the academic and extracurricular aspects of high school life.
Setting the Precedence:
CORE VALUES
Integrity
Definition: Individuals adhere to a higher standard of professional conduct and honesty.
Importance: Individual and organizational integrity builds trust among our staff with our community and improves school effectiveness
Honoring People
Definition: People are Respected, Supported and Treated with Care
Importance: The work and other contributions of people are integral to building and maintaining an effective school
Teamwork
Definition: Individuals work together to realize school goals.
Importance: We will reach school goals by working together and supporting each other
Accountable Performance
Definition: Striving to meet measurable school goals keeping the school focused on its mission
Importance: We exist in a political climate, which requires us to show results. We welcome an opportunity to show what we can do.
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