• Important Dates -->
  • 3/31-NO SCHOOL
  • 4/3--End of Q3
  • 4/4--NO SCHOOL
  • 4/7--NO SCHOOL
  • 4/12--Spring Break Starts
  • 4/21--First Day Back
The Student News Site of Rock Ridge High School

THE BLAZE
The senior class holds up red streamers, representing their class color, to attempt to win one of the pep rally games.
Rock Ridge Springs into Final Spirit Week and Pep Rally
Yearbook staffers smile, holding their Silver Crown Columbia Scholastic Press Association award for the 10th edition of “Genesis”.
A Silver Triumph: Yearbook Takes Home CSPA’s Silver Crown Award
Relatives embrace one another after Eid prayer, taking place with ADAMS Center (All Dulles Area Muslim Society) at Broad Run High School.
Eid-al-Fitr: “Feast of Breaking the Fast”
The official logo for Shapeshift, a student-led startup revolutionizing 3D modelling. The geometric design reflects the platform's core purpose– to shift between sketches and adjustable digital sculptures. Posted with permission from Shapeshift founders Abhinav Duddala and Ajay Vinjamuri.
Shapeshift: High School Innovators Turn 2D Dreams into 3D Reality
Two debaters prepare for the next round of debate in a classroom.
Phoenix Debate Brings The Heat at VHSL 4C Regionals
Vice president Vijeta Arora takes charge of all new members of her organization and keeps it running smoothly.
10 Questions with PASTA Vice President Vijeta Arora
Senior Nitya Matcha advises underclassmen to “try everything” and find activities they’re passionate about. Photo Courtesy of Nitya Matcha
Seven Questions with Nitya Matcha: A Master of Managing it All
PEER club leader senior Rishit Choudhari leads with a goal of making the act of being nice a common courtesy in Rock Ridge. Courtesy of Rishit Choudhari
10 Questions with Rishit Choudhari, Co-Leader of PEER
Many invitations to parties were sent out this year, with the arrival of a fun trend, Galentine's Day.
Rock Ridge Trends: Galentines Day
Obsidian Club Leader Keeya Makonnen leads with vision and passion, while also striving for greatness in the future. Courtesy of Keeya Makonnen
The President of the Obsidian Club: Keeya Makonnen
Freshman Emerson Hagler (18), passes the ball to her teammates while attempting to move the ball away from her goal. “The season has been good; we obviously haven't won all the games we wanted to but we’re working hard,” Hagler said.
Phoenix Girls Soccer Gets Their First Win of the Season
Sophomore Anjali Gay posing for a pre-game picture. Courtesy of Anjali Gay
Athlete Spotlight: Anjali Gay
Junior Riya Cherukuri locks into her target at home base. “Personally, I want to improve on my timing on the plate,” she said. “As a team, we could improve our consistency and execution of plays and putting the ball in play.”
Phoenix Fall Short Against the Captains
Senior Rodrigue Gomado runs the boys 4x400 meter relay event.
Sprinting to Success: Rock Ridge Hosts Indoor Regionals Track Meet, Launches Two Teams to States
Senior Yug Kolla runs a leg in the boys distance 4x800 in the regional track meet hosted by Rock Ridge.
Athlete of the Week: Yug Kolla
Freshman Anshika Atluri charges for the ball on the wing as a Titan player sprints to catch up on the defense.
Titans Attack Phoenix Field Hockey in 8-0 Loss
The Phoenix varsity volleyball team lines up for the national anthem. “We were more communicative [with each other] during this game, and I feel like we kept our energy up, especially after the first set,” senior Jessica Valdov said.
Set, Spike, Win, Repeat: Phoenix Serve The Huskies
Senior Aiden Patel swings his club aiming to get close to the hole. He ended the season undefeated and qualified for the All-State Virginia golf team. Photo Courtesy of Jennifer Virbickis
Phoenix Golf Hits Into Green This Season
Junior Xavier Smith, a wide receiver/defensive back, breaks a tackle. Smith ended the day with 59 rushing yards and six receiving yards.
Annual Homecoming Football Game is Out-of-this-World
Senior running back Shamar Ferrell celebrating in the endzone after narrowly avoiding a Patriot player.
Phoenix Football Proves Patriotism Against Patriots During America Out
Senior Rodrigue Gomado runs the boys 4x400 meter relay event.
Sprinting to Success: Rock Ridge Hosts Indoor Regionals Track Meet, Launches Two Teams to States
The team comes together for a cheer as they run back on the court for their last period. “Breaking their press was our biggest challenge,” sophomore Simone Diby (2) said. “We struggled to handle their defensive pressure, which led to a lot of mistakes”
Phoenix Girls Basketball Put Up a Commendable Fight Against the Pride
Senior and captain Will Beck defends his opponent and tries to stop the Pride guard from getting closer to the Phoenix basket.
Phoenix Fall to Pride in Hard Fought Battle
Racing for the puck, junior Connor Bultema and a Knights/Colts player sprint for a loose puck.
Pride/Phoenix Steal Crown from the Knights/Colts
Senior William Beck protects the ball from the opposing team.
Vikings Extinguish Phoenix Flame in Close Contest
Freshman Emerson Hagler (18), passes the ball to her teammates while attempting to move the ball away from her goal. “The season has been good; we obviously haven't won all the games we wanted to but we’re working hard,” Hagler said.
Phoenix Girls Soccer Gets Their First Win of the Season
Junior Riya Cherukuri locks into her target at home base. “Personally, I want to improve on my timing on the plate,” she said. “As a team, we could improve our consistency and execution of plays and putting the ball in play.”
Phoenix Fall Short Against the Captains
Senior Kaushik Muskari: “This might be my favorite season out of all four years because we’ve been winning a lot and I’ve been spending a lot of time with the team and on the court. When we don’t have a match, we usually have morning practice, and it’s a really good time for team bonding and working on everything that we need to on the court. My favorite part of the season has been when I won region doubles with my partner so now we’re progressing to states. I’m planning to continue tennis at George Mason University and major in computer engineering, so I’ve got a long road ahead of me.”
Tennis Triumphs: An Insight Into the Champions
Junior Lilia Jones has exemplified what it means to be a Phoenix. Although she partakes in many activities, she still finds a way to juggle her personal life with her school life -- and on top of her busy schedule, she also holds the title of all-state athlete. Photo courtesy of Lilia Jones, graphic by Rodrigue Gomado
Lilia Jones Leaps Over Hurdles of High School
Senior Teyany Kleiner looks to take the lead away from a Huskies runner and a Wolverines runner. Kleiner became the regional runner-up after racing in the 100 and 200 meter.
Phoenix Leave a Blazing Trail for Track Regionals
Rock Ridge Chamber Choir claps and sways as they perform “We Sing as One”.
Singing Empowerment: Rock Ridge Sings, Stone Hill Choirs Perform Pre-Assessment Concert
Since the highly publicized arrest of family YouTuber Ruby Franke and her business partner Jodi Hildebrandt, stories have run rampant about the inner workings of the Franke household. Hulu’s “Devil in the Family: The Fall of Ruby Franke” chronicles what actually happened with lackluster editing but a powerful story. Photo courtesy of Hulu
Behind the Scenes: ‘The Devil in the Family: The Fall of Ruby Franke’
Angel Labosette energetically sings “You’ll Be Back” from “Hamilton,” dressed as King George III.
Broadway Desserts Hits the Sweet Spot with Show-Stopping Performances
Rapper Kendrick Lamar performs on stage for the Super Bowl halftime show. Photo courtesy of elisfkc2 via Wikimedia Commons. Link to license: https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-sa/2.0/deed.en
A Halftime Show For The Ages: Kendrick Lamar
The Weeknd's main album cover showcases him sweating and in pain. This signifies the overall theme of the album itself of escaping reality and paralysis. Courtesy of XO Records
Hurry Up and Listen to the Weeknd’s Newest Album: “Hurry Up Tomorrow”
Surrounded by an overwhelming amount of news, this new Trump administration has solidified itself as perhaps one of the most controversial and highly covered presidencies in recent years.
A Different Kind of Drowning: The Media Strategy of the Trump Administration
As tests and workloads pile up on students, the stress of it all can be crushing, especially when the fear of failing is constant.
A Closer Look Into Why We Skip on Test Days
The Silver Line’s new stop in Ashburn was a hopeful addition to connect more of Northern Virginia to the hotspots of the DMV. However, this station has fallen short of its expectations. Image by Mint0ri via Wikimedia Commons, Graphic by Nidhi Manchala via Adobe Illustrator
When Silver Turns to Rust: The Shortcoming of the Ashburn Silver Line Metro Stop
Serving over 40,000 people in the Ashburn area, the Silver Line continues to make a positive impact on commuter and local teen lives.
The Silver Lining of the Silver Line
Mohaimen Kazi creates fresh waffles on a stick for his customers using their waffle maker.
Waffle-y Sweet: Our Waffle Creations Shows What it’s Like to Own a Small Business in Northern Virginia
People with their family members celebrate Holi by throwing powder color at each other.
Ashburn Celebrates Holi, A Festival of Colors
Recognizing the theme of ‘hope’, Keynote speaker and women’s rights activist Katherine Spillar held a speech about legislative milestones and the importance of community engagement. “We can’t put our heads under the pillow and say we’re going to wait it out because without the pushback, without us fighting, we can’t hold the line,” Spillar said. “We have to be organized and strong so when an opportunity becomes available to make forward movement, we're there to seize it. Begin the fight now, wherever you are.”
Women Inspire and Find Hope at Sixth Annual “Rise To” Summit
Rundown Politics: The Ever Growing Threat of Ending DEIA Programs
Rundown Politics: The Ever Growing Threat of Ending DEIA Programs
Rundown Politics: Can Celebrities Impact Political Affiliations?
Rundown Politics: Can Celebrities Impact Political Affiliations?
Rundown Politics: The Beginning of the Trump Administration and the End of Biden’s
Rundown Politics: The Beginning of the Trump Administration and the End of Biden’s
People with their family members celebrate Holi by throwing powder color at each other.
Ashburn Celebrates Holi, A Festival of Colors
Recognizing the theme of ‘hope’, Keynote speaker and women’s rights activist Katherine Spillar held a speech about legislative milestones and the importance of community engagement. “We can’t put our heads under the pillow and say we’re going to wait it out because without the pushback, without us fighting, we can’t hold the line,” Spillar said. “We have to be organized and strong so when an opportunity becomes available to make forward movement, we're there to seize it. Begin the fight now, wherever you are.”
Women Inspire and Find Hope at Sixth Annual “Rise To” Summit
Students roast marshmallows over the fire pit, ready to make smores and watch “Home Alone 2” during the Frost Fest.
Freezing Fun: Annual Winter Frost Fest Brings Chilly Cheer
‘X-traterrestrial’ Homecoming Week Celebrates X Years at the Rock
‘X-traterrestrial’ Homecoming Week Celebrates X Years at the Rock
Senior Pranjal Deshmukh carefully applies paint to the outline of her name on a Barbie box parking spot design. At the annual parking spot painting event, rising seniors got a chance to claim a parking spot; brainstorm a personal design; come equipped with gallons of paint, various brushes, and rolling pins; and have fun coloring the asphalt with friends and family.
Class of 2025 Makes Their Mark in the Parking Lot
The Student News Site of Rock Ridge High School

THE BLAZE
The Student News Site of Rock Ridge High School

THE BLAZE
Amelia Chen

Amelia Chen, Editor-in-Chief

Amelia is a senior and this is her third year on staff. She is SCA executive president, does rhythmic gymnastics, and loves blazing for “The Blaze.” In her free time, Amelia likes listening to music, hanging out with friends, and cooking. Amelia can’t wait to make her last year her best one! #SeniorSlay

All content by Amelia Chen
During the Oct. 24 school board meeting, members discussed budget and legislative changes for the upcoming school year, clarified uncertainties about bus misconduct and security, and made several revisions to previous policies.

[Photo] School Board Clears Up Concerns in School Bus Safety , Converges on New Legislative Program

Lucian Tiller, Nidhi Manchala, and Bhargav Kuniki
November 28, 2023
At their second meeting of the month, the school board discussed new course recommendations for current CTE courses, gun awareness and LGBTQ+ month.

[Photo] School Board Discusses Funding for Nutrition Services, New Proclamations, Collective Bargaining

Jackson Mitchell and Lucian Tiller
May 10, 2023
Chen Swan Song: What if?

Chen Swan Song: What if?

Amelia Chen, Editor-in-Chief
May 19, 2023
Freshman Connor Bultema carries the ball while defending it from the Bulldog opponent. “[The team] worked together, but we were missing many of our players, so [the game] was challenging,” Bultema said.

The Bulldogs Take the Victory from the Phoenix

Sarah Bataineh, Alyssa Yoon, and Amelia Chen
May 10, 2023
On April 11, the Loudoun County School Board discussed changes regarding staff and learning materials in schools.

[Photo] School Board Members Discusses School Funding and Safety in Schools

Hylay Assefa and Nanaki Bawa
April 28, 2023
Senior Arjun Vangala serves the ball during his singles match, with him in the lead at 3-1. “We knew we were playing up, so we were a little scared at the beginning,” Vangala said, “but then when we started hitting the ball and playing our game, we started to really go toe-to-toe with them.”

Battle of the Birds: Phoenix Triumph in Tennis

Alyssa Yoon, Abhi Sharma, and Amelia Chen
April 13, 2023
Dedicated to improving bathroom designs and privacy, worked to find solutions and plan bathroom renovations to avoid conflicts and other risks.

[Photo] School Board Meets to Discuss Mental Health, New Grading System, Bathroom Renovations

James Lee, Nanaki Bawa, and Iyush Hoysal
March 31, 2023
At the fourth annual Tuesday school board meeting, members discussed the representation of African American leaders with regard to the naming of the new middle school and how to report sexual harassment in terms of Title XI violations. The school board also voted on celebrating National Professional Social Work Month and Social Emotional Learning day this school year.

[Photo] School Board Discusses Naming of New Middle School, Title IX Overview Addressing Sexual Harassment

Jackson Mitchell, Melissa Waas, and Sitwat Mian
March 29, 2023
Freshman Brian Ayewouadan keeps the ball in his possession as he tries to move it away from the Pioneer defender. “We could have definitely had more goals, and our strikers were a little bit off. This was my first varsity [game] as a freshman, and I was kind of nervous, but I actually did pretty good,” Ayewouadan said.

Varsity Boys Soccer Springs into the Spring Season with a Scrimmage

Sarah Baig and Amelia Chen
March 9, 2023
The Loudoun County School Board considered a revision of Policy 2430, proclamations for National Professional Social Work Month, and the adoption of Policy 3210 at their Valentine’s Day meeting.

[Photo] School Board Talks Through Changes For the 2023-2024 School Year, Transparency With Public, New Middle School

Adi Kidiyoor, Bhargav Kuniki, and Manika Porchezhian
March 8, 2023
To counter the influx of new middle and high school students in the Independence High School zone, a new middle school called MS-14 will be built to house students in sixth and seventh grade, while the already existing Brambleton Middle School will hold students in eighth grade and Independence freshmen. Independence High School will only hold sophomores, juniors, and seniors.

[Photo] Board Discusses Counseling Week, New Schools, Sexual Assault Case, New Push for Collective Bargaining

Nidhi Manchala, Lucian Tiller, and Sitwat Mian
February 8, 2023
Senior Mehma Kathuria keeps the ball away from the Bolt defender. “Our game was together, we were playing with a new play,” Kathuria said. “[The Team’s] chemistry builds and gets better every game.”

The Battle of Ridges Results in Both Wins and Losses

Amelia Chen, Abhi Sharma, Alyssa Yoon, and Kamille Simon
February 3, 2023
As a junior, Sruthi Dacherla made the Dulles-District Second Team for Girls Varsity Basketball. Before her senior season ends, Dacherla has goals to end her time on the court in high school with a bang. “My personal goal this year is to get my name on the record board and to make the All-District and All-Region teams before I end my career,” Dacherla said.

[Photo] Sruthi Dacherla Shoots for the Sky Before she Bids Farewell to The Rock

Kamille Simon and Alyssa Yoon
January 25, 2023
The LCPS School Board discussed the recent special grand jury report after Superintendent Scott Ziegler was fired and Public Information Officer Wayde Byard was indicted.

[Photo] LCPS School Board Reviews Grand Jury Report Recommendations Regarding Sexual Assault Investigation

Nanaki Bawa and Sruthi Vivek
January 18, 2023
Sophomore Mekhi Motilewa goes for an underhand reverse layup after facing intense pressure from the Huskies.

The Phoenix Lose a Tight Game Against the Huskies

Sarah Baig and Amelia Chen
January 18, 2023
On Nov. 15, the Loudoun County School Board opened their meeting by reviewing current LCPS matters like free and reduced-price meals as well as future plans regarding school renovations.

[Photo] LCPS Provides Updates on Free Lunches, Finance and Operation Matters, Funding School Programs, Health Benefits for Employees

Sudeepa Pasupuleeti and Anushka Goski
December 19, 2022
At their Nov 29 meeting, the Loudoun County School Board finalized Policy 5055, which discussed parental notice of sexually explicit content. The new policy implemented by the school board, Policy 5055 requires thorough examination by parents for material deemed explicit, which in turn limits English teachers by flagging most literary material.

[Photo] LCPS Discusses 2023-2024 School Year Calendar, New Policy 5055, Student Transportation

Nidhi Manchala, Sitwat Mian, and Jackson Mitchell
December 19, 2022
Sophomore Trey Fitch goes for a shot after making a steal. Fitch scored a total of thirteen points in the game. “I feel like I played alright, [I] could have done better,” Fitch said. “I was getting really pressed in the first half, I got led off towards the end. Individually, I did my contribution to the team, but it is a team effort.”

Despite a Fight, the Panthers Pounce on the Phoenix

Hylay Assefa, Amelia Chen, James Lee, and Alyssa Yoon
December 16, 2022
The board discussed renaming 19 schools, a new internship offered by elementary schools, and new calendar options for 2023-2024 school year.

[Photo] LCPS Schools Renamed; New Computer Science Internship for Students

Melissa Waas and Nidhi Manchala
October 31, 2022
HUMANS OF ROCK RIDGE

[Photo] Phoenix Profiles: Humans of Rock Ridge

October 25, 2022
Senior Basit Qadri (11) tackles the Railroader opponent while sophomore DJ Harvey (10) runs to catch the ball.

Phoenix Suffer Tough Loss to the Railroaders

Amelia Chen and Alyssa Yoon
October 15, 2022
Senior and co-captain Harshroop Singh attempts to take the ball from the Titan opponent. “I think it’s crazy to see that I’ve learned a new sport just through the field hockey program here at Rock Ridge,” Singh said. “I’ve definitely seen a lot of improvement compared to previous years.”

Despite Loss to Titans, Field Hockey Celebrates Seasoned Seniors

Amelia Chen, Bhargav Kuniki, and Kamille Simon
October 18, 2022
Boys Varsity Soccer started their season strong with their first win in 2 years against the Stone Bridge Bulldogs. Senior Prince Amarante scored 2 goals, giving the Phoenix the win 2-1.

Closing of a Chapter, Prince Hangs Up His Crown

Sarah Baig, Amelia Chen, and Tanishka Enugu
June 10, 2022
On Tuesday, May 24, the LCPS School Board met for their 2nd Tuesday of the month meeting and discussed a variety of topics including gun violence; the first Friday in June was proposed to be celebrated as national gun violence awareness day in LCPS schools.

[Photo] School Board Honors National Merit Scholars, Recognizes Gun Violence and LGBTQ+ Awareness Month

Nanaki Bawa, Aarohi Motwani, Jackson Mitchell, and Rishi Sundaram
June 8, 2022
Senior Anya Ambarish waits for her opponent to return the ball during her doubles match. Ambarish is the captain of the team this year and plans to continue playing club tennis at the University of Central Florida next year. “I might even walk on to their Varsity team,” Ambarish said.

Battle of the Dulles District: Phoenix Girls Tennis Wins Regular Season Championship

Amelia Chen, Tanishka Enugu, Harini Kannan, and Sarah Baig
May 24, 2022
On May 10, the school board held their second Tuesday meeting, continuing to discuss improvements to student welfare and allocating funds to fiscal year 22-23 budget items.

[Photo] School Board Provides Updates on Budget Plan, New Schools and Expansion of “Literacy for All” Programs

Sudeepa Pasupuleeti, Kaleb Ryans, and Abhishek Solipuram
May 24, 2022
On April 5, the school board discussed the reassignment of staff and administrators throughout Loudoun County Public Schools, and announced the soon-to-open town halls to discuss their Strategic Plan with the community. The Strategic Plan outlines procedures that look to improve student and staff quality of life, absolve issues, and alleviate concerns brought forth from the public.

[Photo] Loudoun School Board Opens Town Hall Meetings, Moves Eid to May 2, Updates Student Mental Health Procedures

Kaleb Ryans, Lucian Tiller, and Shaima Tora
May 16, 2022
Freshman Kaushik Muskari prepares to hit the ball in his singles match. “I think I could’ve done a lot better,” Muskari said, “and of course there’s always a lot of room to improve, knowing that I'm still learning.”

Phoenix Boys Tennis Ace the Huskies

Amelia Chen, Sarah Baig, Tanishka Enugu, and Abhi Sharma
May 4, 2022
On March 8, the LCPS school board held their second Tuesday meeting, discussing new CDC guidelines and the revision of the county equity statement.

[Photo] School Board Reviews New CDC Mitigation Recommendations; Recognizes Rock Ridge Accomplishments

James Bowles, Megan Langsam, Kaleb Ryans, and Lucian Tiller
March 31, 2022
Senior Aidie Bell (3) defends the ball from Falcon Taylor Price. “I think I did pretty well. [I just wish] I had scored,” Bell said.

The Battle of the Birds

Amelia Chen, Editor-in-Chief
April 7, 2022
During the boys varsity match, Senior Prince Amarante (13) dribbled the ball toward the goal. “Personally, I think I was able to run it behind and stretch them, creating an attacking threat,” Amarante said. Amarante is eager for the start of his senior season. “I’m looking forward to just enjoying it with my friends and having a great time,” he said. “I want to just make the best out of it and make lifelong memories.”

Double Trouble: Soccer Double Header Ends in Victory for Girls; Loss for Boys

Sarah Baig, Amelia Chen, Tanishka Enugu, and Abhi Sharma
March 22, 2022
Sophomore Daniel Okoye (34) and freshman Trey Fitch (3) attempt to block Lightridge player Rishab Kantikanani (44). Okoye was able to block four Lightning shots in the game.

The Final “Battle of the Ridges”

Amelia Chen, Alexis Cortés, Bella Gerardi, and Nidhi Manchala
February 18, 2022
Junior Deric Gomado (1) dribbles through the Lightning defense and makes a slam dunk, adding two points to the Phoenix’s score. “I was a little nervous [for our first home double header game], but no [that did not affect me],” Gomado said.

The Battle of the Ridges

Amelia Chen, Editor-in-Chief
February 3, 2022
As the parent social came to an end, Matt Brooks, an art therapist from the Resilience Network, looks over to PTSO President Tiffany Ahmed as she makes her final closing statements.

Mental Health and Money: PTSO Meeting and Parent Social

Amelia Chen, Harini Kannan, and Lucian Tiller
February 2, 2022
During public comment, Loudoun County parents and students voiced their concerns over the School Board’s recent actions to deal with the sexual assault case.

Loudoun County School Board Discusses Current Affairs, Title IX, School Lunch

Amelia Chen, James Bowles, Kaleb Ryans, and Sudeepa Pasupuleeti
November 16, 2021
On Aug 24th in the blistering 90 degree heat, seniors paint their parking spots accompanied by their friends and family.

Class of 2022 Claims their Spots on the Lot

Amelia Chen and Zain Khalidi
November 1, 2021
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