Principal Newsletter -- January 11, 2010

There are so many different aspects of life at Riverdale to be celebrated at various points along the trajectory of a school year, but there is probably none so remarkable as the incredible arts program, directed by Nancy Helmsworth. And, I've found that the best way to celebrate the work of the professionals at RGS is to hold up the work of their students. In this case, I am pleased to announce that RGS students accounted for five awards in the recent Scholastic Art Awards.

The art room is a staple on tours of prospective parents. You just know, walking in to the space, that this is a workshop in the truest sense of the word. From the beginning, from kindergarten, students are exposed to high quality artistic exemplars by renowned artists across a wide spectrum of media. By middle school, students self-select to focus on the visual arts in their elective periods.

Each year, Ms. Helmsworth works with 7th and 8th grade art students to develop pieces for entry into the awards. And, without fail, her work with our young artists is rewarded when they are recognized as being among the best and brightest in the country. Below are images five pieces, by four RGS students. Congratulations go to Noelle Foden-Vencil, Molly Fowkes, Gunnar Rosenburg, Corey Linver & -- of course -- Nancy Helmsworth!


Noelle Foden-Vencil Self-portrait -cut tyvec (cut paper) "Silver Key award"

Noelle Foden-Vencil Boiler Room - drawing -"Silver Key Award"

Molly Fowkes - Tools - drawing-"Gold Key Award"

Gunnar Rosenberg -Pipes- drawing- "Honorable Mention"

Corey Linver - Knob - drawing- "Honorable Mention"

Upcoming events:

Monday
6:00 PM School Board Regular Meeting, HS Library

Tuesday
4:00 PM 6/7/8 Girls' BB game (away) vs West Hills Christian

Wednesday
9:00 AM GS PTC Meeting @ Smith (front foyer)
4:00 PM 7/8 Boys' BB game (preseason away) vs West Hills Chrisitian

Thursday
8:40 AM - 1:30 PM GS - 8th Gr FT - Justice Center
4:00 PM 7/8 Boys' BB game (home @ RHS gym) vs Horizon

Friday