The Riptide rolled in on Monday, marking an historic day.
The Riptide, of course, is the mascot name for the new River Islands High, which kicked off the epic first day for 550 students not to mention 30 teachers and a community.
Ella Mangalindan, who is a junior – River Islands High debuts with juniors, seniors, and freshmen – was thrilled with the spaciousness of the campus.
“It’s a big school,” she said. “I really like it – it’s fun and there’s a lot more classes from which I can choose.”
According to Principal Carey Simoni, the first day at River Islands High opened with Lyn and John Hale of Hale Construction hoisting the flag while music teacher Jeremy Brown performed the Stars Spangled Banner on electric guitar.
“It really was a wonderful moment,” she said.
Simoni along with her administration team of Justin Graham (Assistant Principal / Athletic Director) and Nikki Seibert (Assistant Principal / Activities Director) met with students of the new school last week during the two orientation sessions.
The opening of River Islands High was three years in the making made possible by a team effort consisting of Susan Dell’Osso, president of River Islands Development, and her team; Hale Construction, which began work on the campus back in May 2023; local police and firefighters; and the community, staff and students.
Simoni and Brenda Scholl echoed that on this first day.
Scholl is the Executive Director for River Islands Academies, which includes the three elementary sites – STEAM Academy, River Islands Technology Academy, and EPIC Academy – and the new high school.
She takes great pride that all students and staff at those sites are equipped with finest technology and are continually growing and learning through professional development opportunities.
“The opening of our high school is a dream come true,” Scholl said.
Construction continues at River Islands High with the administration building and other parts of school currently taking place.
The signature row of palm trees, according to Graham, who is the former basketball coach at his alma mater Ripon High, were planted on June 13.