Starting this year’s 2025-2026 school year off with the annual Back to School Night on Wednesday, August 20. Parents and students got to roam the RHS campus learning and building connections with many new and familiar teachers. The school was filled with lively chatter in the North Gym, where all the parents gathered to hear Mr. Rangel’s informative speech.
The principal gave the parents a breakdown on what the school strives and drives to accomplish. For example, Rangel explained how the school would not only prepare RHS students for future careers, but also teach them how to create good character and people to send out into the world. Also, he explained how the school can help prepare students for life after high school, and how students can follow the “Enrolled, Enlisted, Employed, Earn, or have an Entrepreneurship “ mantra after high school to set all the students up for success.
RHS mom, Luz Richardson says, “I thought that all the teachers were super kind and that they are all excited to help the students succeed and support them with their extra curricular activities.”
Each teacher got about 10-15 minutes to interact with their student’s parents and guardians. Some shared their syllabuses, expectations, rules, and class policies. Parents received important dates this semester, including Senior Parent Night on September 16th and the 10th-11th Grade Parent Night on November 18 at 6:30 pm in the MUB. Seniors were also reminded about Cash for College Night, as well as booster club events like the September 15 golf tournament, Dave & Buster’s dinner nights, and the “Pay the Lot with Pride” fundraiser for senior parking spots
School spirit was also another highlight of the evening. Ripon High’s Superfan program is looking for energetic supporters. The 5-Star system, used for hall passes and check-ins, was also introduced as a helpful tool for keeping campus organized.
Back to School Night was a very important event and provided a meaningful message: Ripon High is more than just grades. It’s about preparing students for the future while encouraging them to get involved, grow as individuals, and take pride in their school community.
