by Editorial Staff
RSA’s annual Fall Festival was a huge success, drawing hundreds of attendees for an evening of fun, food, and fellowship. Families and friends gathered to enjoy a wide variety of delicious food sold by vendors and volunteers, making the event a flavorful celebration of the season.
The highlight of the festival was the Frightcade, a thrilling attraction that kept guests entertained and coming back for more. Its spooky games and challenges added an exciting twist to the festivities, making it the talk of the night.
Beyond the fun, the Fall Festival served as an outstanding community outreach effort and a strong fundraiser for RSA. The event showcased the power of coming together, reinforcing RSA’s commitment to building connections and supporting its programs.
by Sofia Zepeda and Alysia De La Garza
Q: What made you decide to become a teacher?
A: “I became a teacher because I love kids, I always have.”
Q: What’s one thing your students might be surprised to learn about you?
A: “I have an addiction….. Pickles and hot cheetos with lemon. That is my biggest weakness.”
Q: If you could teach any subject what would you teach and why, even something totally made up.
A: “I don’t know, maybe cooking because I love food and at the end you eat what you cook.”
Q: What is the most memorable monet you have had in your classroom?
A: “Well maybe our Journal share or candy salad. Court cases were really fun and crazy. Even the danny go brain breaks were really funny. Sharing life with students was really fun too.”
Q: What advice would you give to students that would want to be teacher in the future.
“Never think that you are too cool to act as a kid because that is how to connect with your kids.”
Q: What is your favorite part about being a teacher?
A: “The relationships I build with the students and I love 6th grade because 6th graders crack me up.”
Q: How did you feel about teaching 6th grade for the first time?
A: “I felt like a new teacher all over again. I made a lot of mistakes and I had to learn very quickly.”
by Faith Alvarado and Ava De La Fuente
The recent pep rally was more than just cheers and chants—it was a celebration of school spirit, teamwork, and recognition. Students and staff came together to create unforgettable memories while honoring those who exemplify our core values.
A Teacher’s Perspective
Mrs. DeWitt shared what she was most excited about:
“I am most looking forward to awarding students their core value awards because during these past six weeks, students have always displayed examples of what a rocket should be.”
Teachers also reflected on their favorite pep rally moments from previous years. Halloween-themed rallies topped the list:
Ms. Martinez loves the costume competitions: “Everyone dresses up and the departments compete to decide who has the best costumes.”
Ms. Guzman recalled when elective teachers dressed as Disney princesses: “We all felt connected.”
Coach B couldn’t forget seeing Mr. Wilson as Shrek: “That was the highlight for me!”
When asked which student event they’d join, Ms. Vargas chose the relay race for its teamwork, while Coach B leaned toward basketball challenges: “Basketball is my best skill.”
Students Share Their Advice
Sixth graders new to pep rallies received some wisdom from experienced students:
Janvi Patel encouraged them to embrace the energy: “Have fun and enjoy your time. You don’t have to participate in events, but being loud with your grade is a big part of the pep rallies.”
Students who participated last year described the thrill:
Janvi Patel admitted it was nerve-wracking at first but rewarding: “Looking back, it was a fun experience.”
Onur Karabulut enjoyed showcasing his skills: “It was cool because I got to show off what I am good at.”
Santiago Hernandez loved the competition: “It was fun and exciting because we beat the 8th graders.”
Celebrating Core Values
The highlight of the rally was honoring students who embody our school’s core values. Here’s what some winners had to say:
6th Grade
Natalie Alvarez (Community): “I felt proud of myself, and I was surprised because I didn’t know our school did this.”
Vyla Trevino (Excellence): “It felt strange at first, but once I realized what I won, I was proud of myself.”
7th Grade
Eva Salazar (Respect): “It felt good because I was getting recognized for my actions.”
Santiago Mata (Knowledge): “It felt awesome and I felt proud because my hard work had paid off.”
8th Grade
Antonella Negrete (Community): “I felt excited and nervous because everyone was looking at me. I also felt grateful because teachers recognized my efforts.”
Kennedy Acosta (Excellence): “I was surprised and embarrassed, but it was exciting to feel honored.”
The Spirit of the Rockets
From thrilling competitions to heartfelt recognition, the pep rally reminded everyone what it means to be part of the Rocket family: community, respect, excellence, and knowledge. Here’s to many more moments that bring us together!
by Joseclyn Sepeda
Being in eighth grade means being in your last year of middle school, which also means you're about to head to high school. So, it’s safe to say that they can’t help but feel nostalgic about all the memories they’ve had here at RSA. To commemorate them, every newspaper release I’ll give four eighth graders a chance to share their favorite memories, from RSA, how they’re making this year special, and their outlook on going to school next year. In order to spice it up, each student will be asked questions specific to them, showcasing their personality, interests, or advice for lower grades.
Morgan Cavazos
Student Ambassador, Student Council Representative, NJHS Member
“How long have you been attending RSA?”
- “For three years.”
“Throughout this time what is your favorite memory?”
- “The color run last year was my favorite memory from RSA; it was fun, especially with the teachers participating and chasing us students! I remember when Mr. Romero was trying to throw paint on me, but I was able to successfully run away.”
“What’s it like being a Student Ambassador, in your own words.”
- “Being a student ambassador is great and fun because I’m able to represent the school and help out the community.”
“How do you plan to make this year special?”
- “I plan on making this year special by trying to get as many awards as possible.”
“What’s your outlook on going to high school next year?”
- “I plan on going to Medical Professions and take the pharmacy route so I’m looking forward to all the challenges and obstacles ahead!”
Jayden Garcia
A Honor Roll Student, TSA State Winner, HOSA Competitor, NJHS Member
“How long have you been attending RSA?”
- “I’ve been at RSA since sixth grade, so three years.”
“Throughout this time what is your favorite memory?”
- “My favorite memory from RSA was the TSA state trip to Fort Worth Texas, a school event. I competed and had an overall amazing time. Throughout the trip, my favorite part was going to the mall there with all my friends.”
“What clubs are you participating in this year?”
- “The clubs I’m participating in this year are UIL (Science, Math, impromptu), HOSA, TSA, Student Council, Math Club, Rocket reports, and NJHS.”
“How do you plan to make this year special?”
- “I plan to make this year special by focusing on the important things, like my church, friends, and family.
“What’s your outlook on going to high school next year?”
- “My outlook on going to high school next year is that it will be a big but fun change. I’ll have a lot of opportunities to make new friends and join new clubs! Not only that, but I’ll also be able to dive in more on my studies in science and math which to me is fun!”
Cayden Carreon
Student Athlete, A-B Honor Roll,
“How long have you been attending RSA?”
- “Since seventh grade (2 years).”
“Throughout this time what is your favorite memory?”
- “I don’t have a favorite memory per say; however, something that really stuck out to me are how many different types of kids you’ll find here.”
“What’s it liking being a student athlete?”
- “It’s challenging to say the least, you lose a lot of free time, you lose time for afterschool activities or tutoring, but overall, it’s fun. It’s nice to know I’m representing and doing something for my school and that my free time isn’t being wasted, instead it’s going into myself and my team.”
“How do you plan to make this year special?”
- “To make it special I’m going to live it to the fullest and try not to focus on too many minor things, other than my grades.”
“What’s your outlook on going to high school next year?”
- “Can’t wait, I can’t wait for the freedom, driving since I can go wherever I want, and honestly just being able to meet new people and do new things.”
by Sarah Quezada
To power an engine, you need fuel. School food is like the fuel to power our brains. Nutrition is an important but often avoided topic. Sure it’s easy to eat something quick at school due to the commotion that middle school is. However, is it really fulfilling our body’s needs? A better well-balanced meal seems like the better option, but then you can run into issues with money and you rethink if the option is sustainable. Here at RSA our school strives to be as effective as possible, but that doesn’t mean there isn’t room to improve
What’s the menu like?
The most common breakfast at RSA is cereal (with milk), juice, fruit, and a side option that ranges from a croissant to pop tarts. A typical lunch includes milk, a fruit option, a grain like rice, and a main course with a source of protein. Rising Scholars does provide an alternative choice, called Pizza and more, which usually has pizza, a hot pocket, or burger.
What do the students think?
To begin with a good note students appreciate the variety that’s provided. For example, when student Hugo Dimas was asked if school food helps or hurts his school performance he responded with,” it’s definitely helping me because of the different options we get”. On the other hand, even if there is a good side, you can’t excuse the aspects that need advancement. For instance, student Sophia Aguilar states what she would change about the menu.” I would change the breakfast to a meal showing the main food groups, a bit more like the hot lunch, but keep the smaller options for people who like them”
To Conclude
Although RSA’s cafeteria food offers students a range of choices to power them through their day, there are still areas that could better address student nutritional needs. While the selection is great, providing better balanced breakfast options with considering cost-effectiveness, would improve the meals. As our school thrives and grows, it’s important to take feedback and make adjustments for the overall wellbeing of students.
by Jorge Velez
On the second week of school, eighth-grader Mia Torres walked into class and froze. She reached into her pocket and realized—her phone wasn’t there. She had forgotten to lock it into the pouch required by the new Texas phone ban. “I felt like I was missing a part of me,” she said.
House Bill 1481, which took effect this year, says students across Texas cannot use their phones during school hours. The goal is to help students pay attention and avoid distractions. But how do students, teachers, and parents feel about it.
A Big Change in the School Day
At our school, phones must be locked away when we walk in the doors. Some students feel like something fun has been taken from them.
One anonymous student said: “It took away one of the most fun things we get to do. But it also took away cheating and distractions. It kind of helps us learn more.” They also think the rule affects students differently depending on the situation, “People can’t call loved ones in emergencies, but it also makes us talk and learn more instead of cheating.”
When asked whether the law should stay or go, the student gave a mixed answer: "I’d remove the law, but also keep it. Like, don’t let phones be used in class, but maybe let us have them at lunch.”
A Teacher’s View: Focus Is Finally Back
Teachers notice the change too. Mr. Prock, a 6th-grade teacher, said: “Students stay more focused on their studies. They actually talk to each other instead of just texting.”
He said there have been zero phone problems in his classroom this year. “Students work better in groups and they’re more sociable. Honestly, it’s been a very positive thing.”
A Teacher and Mom’s Perspective
Miss Berryman has a unique view — she’s both a teacher and a parent of a student here. As a teacher, she supports the rule: “It forces my students to think a little deeper.”
But as a mom, she understands why families worry: “You want your child to be able to communicate if plans change or something happens.”
She said students are still learning they can use any school phone if they need help. When asked whether she’d keep the rule if she were governor, she didn’t hesitate: “I would keep it.”
Better Focus… or More Boredom?
Some students say they feel calmer without the buzz of notifications. Others say school feels longer and harder without phones to distract them. Experts say phones can hurt attention and mental health, but suddenly removing them can cause stress too. Schools are still trying to strike a balance.
Trying to Reconnect Without Screens
At lunch, more students are talking, laughing, and sitting together instead of scrolling alone. “I didn’t realize how glued I was to my phone,” Mia said. “Now I actually listen when someone talks to me.” Maybe that’s exactly what this rule is trying to bring back — real connection.
What Happens Next?
The phone ban is still new, and schools are adjusting. Will the rule improve learning and friendships? Or will students keep fighting against it? One thing is clear: school life has changed. Are students truly disconnected — or finally reconnecting?
by Jayden Garcia
This year, eighty students competed for just twenty-two spots in our school’s HOSA chapter, a glimpse into how competitive HOSA can be. At the state level, hundreds of students try for the chance to be one of only three who advance to the international stage. Yet, even in this high-stakes environment, RSA’s HOSA chapter focuses on more than competition. Through events, community service, and fundraising, it helps members grow by building leadership, teamwork, and critical thinking skills that extend far beyond the classroom.
Health Occupations Students Of America (HOSA) is a student organization for students interested in healthcare fields such as medicine, dentistry, nursing, veterinary science, and more. Its mission is to develop technical knowledge and leadership skills that prepare future health professionals for success. At RSA, interest in HOSA continues to grow. This year, eighty students applied for only twenty-two available spots. According to Mrs. Galvan, RSA’s HOSA sponsor, it was the most competitive year yet, with forty more applicants than last year and the highest average entry exam scores in RSA’s history.
This year’s HOSA members are: Kennedy Acosta, Ethan Alfaro, Caden Carreon, Vladimir Cintra, Illiana Corona, Janay De la Rosa, Evelyn Delgado, Isabella Delgado, Sophia Diaz, Ian Frost, Jayden Garcia, Xochilt Gonzalez, Aditya Lakkimsetty, Sofia Perez, Sarah Quezada, Julissa Rivera, Emery Rodriguez, Miranda Ruiz, Julianne Sloan, Sofia Villalobos, and Dakota Young.
One dedicated member, Miranda Ruiz, shared, “My older sister Natalie’s dedication to HOSA inspired me to join. Seeing her work endlessly sparked a light of interest in me to join.” Her story highlights how passion and mentorship continue to motivate new members to continue brilliance within RSA’s HOSA chapter.
In addition to welcoming new members and preparing for competitions, RSA’s HOSA chapter also focused on fundraising to support its goals. To help cover expenses for events and travel, members organized two booths during RSA’s Fall Festival. One booth featured a Pumpkin Toss, and the other offered Pickle Shots. It was heartwarming to see the majority of HOSA’s members working together to support their club. One student in particular, Caden Cavazos, who volunteered at the Pumpkin Toss, said, “I had lots of fun, especially helping the little kids, and I really hope to do more like that.” This shows that HOSA teaches students how rewarding and enjoyable it can be to help out and give back.
RSA’s HOSA members are eagerly preparing for their upcoming competition in Corpus Christi in early 2026, as well as for school-level tryouts. Students are studying events such as Medical Terminology, which tests their knowledge of medical vocabulary, and reviewing scenarios related to their chosen fields. Although the chapter has not yet competed this year, members are excited to showcase what they have learned and represent RSA while keeping the school’s core values in mind. The dedication and effort they are putting in now will not only help them succeed at the state competition and, hopefully, at Internationals, but will also strengthen passion for healthcare. Several students, including Miranda Ruiz, Caden Cavazos, and Sarah Quezada, have set ambitious goals and hope to advance to the International level.
HOSA at RSA offers students more than just a chance to compete; it supplies opportunities to grow, learn, and contribute to the school. From fundraising events, like the fall festival, to preparing for competitions, members build leadership, teamwork, and critical thinking skills that will help them in the medical field . As the year unfolds, students are nerve-rackingly excited to put their hard work into practice and represent RSA at the state and, hopefully, the international level. HOSA is more than a club, it's a community. It is a place where students discover their potential, support one another, and prepare to make a change in the world of healthcare.
by Dariela De La Garza
UIL stands for University Interscholastic League. It’s an organization in Texas that helps students from different schools compete in a wide variety of activities. UIL gives students the chance to learn new skills, challenge themselves, and represent their schools in areas like academics, athletics, and fine arts.
Out of all the provided UIL activities here at RSA, today’s spotlight goes to the amusing, theatrical, and performative solo and duo acting! This extracurricular activity is heavily underrated compared to the others, for it is both entertaining for the actors and audience, and it is also beneficial for the students.
We sat down with the sponsor, Ms. Ybarra, to talk about the event:
Q: Where do the actors get their script for the scenes in this UIL?
A: The dialogue for the participants is given from the coach, who gets their lines from comedy and drama books that are provided for this kind of interest.
Q: What if I need guidance for my part?
A: If a participant is confused on the scene they are doing, the current coach of the UIL, Ms. Ybarra, would come to assist them. She does not mind if a student asks questions about their sequence, so if lost, please ask for help.
Q: What’s the best way to practice with my partner (for Duo)?”
A: Using your time during practice meetups could help with you and your partner’s scene. For example, during the practices, you will be able to rehearse your part with your colleague to perfect the roles together to create a better dynamic on stage.
by Kaila Susa
Battle of the Books is a fun reading competition usually held in schools or libraries. Students are given a list of books to read ahead of time. After reading them, students join teams and work together to answer questions about the stories, characters, and events from those books.
During the competition, teams try to remember as many details as possible. The team that answers the most questions correctly wins. It’s a friendly way to encourage reading, teamwork, and good memory skills.
Think of it like a big trivia game, but all the questions come from the books you’ve read!
How can Battle of the Books impact students?
Encourages More Reading: Because students want to do well in the competition, they read more books than they normally might. This helps them build a reading habit.
Improves Memory and Thinking Skills: Students have to remember characters, events, and details from many different books. This strengthens memory and helps them think more carefully about what they read.
Builds Teamwork: Students work together to answer questions. They learn how to communicate and share ideas.
Boosts Confidence: When students answer questions correctly or see their team succeed, they feel proud of what they’ve accomplished.
Makes Reading Fun: Instead of reading just for homework, students get to turn it into a game or competition, which makes the whole experience more enjoyable.
Introduces New Stories and Perspectives: Students read books they might not have chosen on their own, helping them discover new genres, authors, cultures, and ideas.
Overall, Battle of the Books helps students grow as readers, thinkers, and teammates while having fun!
Battle of the Books Sponsor Speaks Out
The following information comes from the current sponsor of BOB, Mrs. Galvan:
Q: How long have you been involved with the program?
A: I have been sponsoring Battle of the Books for over thirteen years now, and I enjoy each and every single year!
Q: How would you describe the purpose and value of BOB to someone unfamiliar with it?
A: The purpose of Battle of the Books is to introduce young readers to new and exciting different genres of literature that they might find fascinating, which is just another way of saying we want to make sure that our students actually find reading enjoyable and fun!
Battle of the Books Participant Speaks Out
The following information comes from a current Battle of the Books participant, Brandon V.
Q: What made you join BOB?
A: Back at my old school we had this app called Accelerated Reader, or AR, and practically I loved it a lot, and finding out about Battle of the Books made me wanna join because of it!
Q: Which book from this year’s list did you enjoy the most?
A: My favorite book this year was probably The Total Eclipse of Nestor Lopez, because I can relate to it, since my father was also in the military. Also, I loved how the main lead, Nestor, could talk to animals!
The RSA Chess Team is making moves, literally! This after-school club brings together students who share a passion for strategy, critical thinking, and friendly competition. Members meet regularly to practice, learn new tactics, and challenge each other in exciting matches.
The club offers a welcoming environment for beginners and experienced players alike. It’s not just about winning, it’s about sharpening problem-solving skills and enjoying the game. With dedicated members and growing interest, the RSA Chess Team is proving that chess is more than a game; it’s a community.
by Renata Gallegos and Iker Leal
The sound of running shoes filled the cool air as the runners took off down the trail. Each one pushed themselves to run faster and reach the finish line. Cross country is more than just running, it's a sport that takes hard work, dedication, and mental discipline.
The RSA cross country team practices early in the morning, often before the sun even comes up. Getting up that early and running long distances is not easy, but it shows how determined the runners are. They have to keep going even when they’re tired or sore, and that’s what makes them stronger.
They’re practicing drills including stretching in morning practices at 6:45AM. Their stretches are A skips, B skips, and C skips also known as agilities, and other stretches such as high knees and side lunges. After they go into running 1 lap around the soccer field then to running 2-3 miles then one cool down lap.
What really keeps the team going is each other. They cheer for one another during races, encourage their teammates at practice, and celebrate after tough workouts. The team sticks together through the challenges, and that makes them even better.
Coach B says that his goals for the Cross Country team are that everyone improves from the beginning to the TSCAAL state meet. His favorite memories of Cross Country are him watching the girls come in from the finishing line, giving it their all, and reading their reward relived. Another favorite memory he has is seeing one of the sixth-grade girls, Jackie Salinas get first place in a meet, he says it's impressive for a 6th grader to accomplish this. The best accomplishment that the RSA Cross Country team accomplished is Jacob Alonso, placing top 10 in state for the first time in RSA history!
In the end, the RSA cross country team shows that teamwork can take you far. They run with pride for their school and for each other, proving that no challenge is too hard when you never give up.
Pictures: Joana Garza @joanaaflicks
Pictures: Jose Lopez and Zoe Izaguirre
Pictures: Javier Ramirez
Our magazine recently hosted its quarterly writing contest, drawing many entries from talented student authors. After careful review, the editorial staff selected the top three winners.
First place was awarded to How I Feel by Melissa Melo, a heartfelt and expressive work.
Second place was awarded to The Mystery of the Crooked House by Giselle Beck, a suspenseful story full of intrigue.
Congratulations to all participants for showcasing their creativity!
by Melissa Melo
When I see your name appear,
suddenly the world feels near.
One small “hi” can light my day,
all worries fade away.
When I feel like you're laughing, I laugh along.
Like our chats turn into a song.
Every word you send feels new,
I can’t help but think of you.
I stay up late, I check my phone,
your message ‘s feel like my own.
I type, erase, then type again,
wishing this moment won't ever end.
So here I sit, both shy and true,
liking everything you do.
Maybe one day.
You’ll somehow find,
you’re always running through my mind.
by Giselle Beck
Once upon a time, in a small, unremarkable town, there stood an ordinary house where an extraordinary family resided. On the surface, they appeared to be the most admired family in Crookedville: a prosperous businessman, a stunning model, and their unusual child named Clara.
On an unremarkable day, while Clara was playing with Mrs. Parker, she suddenly spoke in a chilling tone, “I am coming.” This wasn’t the first instance of such eerie behavior; it had been occurring for the past month, leaving everyone puzzled about the source of these ominous actions.
The following day, while Mr. Parker was in his study, Mrs.Parker let out a blood-curdling scream and then fell silent. Mr.Parker rushed to her side, only to find that she had passed away. Her eyes were rolled back, and it appeared as if her bones had been shattered moments before the house trembled and warped.
In a haunting voice, Clara declared, “Both of you are next.” Tragically, both Mr.Parker and Clara met the same fate as Mrs.Parker. Now, the house stands crooked, shrouded in mystery, with no one knowing who or what caused this horror.