• Important Dates -->
  • Aug 12- Senior Pictures
  • Aug 13- Senior Pictures
  • Aug 21- First Day of School
  • Aug 29- NO SCHOOL
  • Sep 1- NO SCHOOL
The Student News Site of Rock Ridge High School

THE BLAZE
Two seniors engaging with other people as they explain their capstone experience with the “Mission Statement” project.
Celebrating Milestones: Seniors Conclude Year With Capstone Gala, Senior Awards Ceremony
While the event was a formal celebration for new inductees and current members, it was also filled with happiness and unity. After the speeches, the NEHS group all enjoyed food and drinks with friends and family attending the event.
Hard Work Pays Off: New NEHS Members Inducted
Students part of the Science Olympiad club hold their regional trophy, an award they haven’t won since 2014.
The Science Olympiad Team Achieves Record-Breaking Success
The 2025 All School Awards celebrated students' diligence and commitment to their academics, sports, and communities throughout the year.
Appreciating Accomplishments: Rock Ridge Distributes All-School Awards
Rock Ridge students celebrate as Sanvi Challa and Melissa Waas win the grand Prize along with an internship opportunity at Loudoun Now for the summer.
Rock Ridge Wins Big at First-Ever Loudoun Now Student Journalism Awards
Assistant Principal Jennifer Cavanaugh smiles while standing on Rainbow Street on a trip to Reykjavik, Iceland.
From Foundations to Farewells: Jennifer Cavanaugh’s Parting Wisdom
Karen Curran, an avid traveler, hopes to traverse the world after her retirement.
A Legacy of Learning: Karen Curran Announces Retirement
Students part of the Free and Reduced Meal Program can get a full meal of lunch for free every day. Along with meal benefits, students can receive additional financial support through gift vouchers, fee waivers, and necessities such as clothing.
Lunch Dissatisfaction Drives Down Free and Reduced Meal Participation
“I know that hope isn’t solid, because just like books and poems: It is up to you to decide what you take away from it.”--Why Must We Hurt?
Gonzalez Swan Song: Why Must We Hurt?
“The best endings don’t feel like endings at all. They feel like showing up to the same hallway for the thousandth time and realizing, finally, that it meant something. That you were building a life the whole time — even in the chaos, even in the ordinary.” – This One’s Better
Karthik Swan Song: This One’s Better
The Phoenix varsity soccer team huddles together during their timeout.
Phoenix Soccer Clawed by Wolverines in Final Minutes
Senior Eleser Santos running on the track during his race.
Senior Elieser Santos Shines on the Track Stage in Preparation for States
The Bethesda players line up after their game to take a picture
Bethesda Soccer Club Brings the Bang in Spain
Freshman Christian Bhide serves a ball during his singles match.
Rock Ridge Boys Tennis Team Triumphs Over Dominion Titans
With his eyes on the prize, the Phoenix varsity all-time number two player, Akash Vangale returns the ball against the Tuscarora Huskies.
Phoenix Tennis Blazes Past Tuscarora With Eyes Locked on States
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
The Phoenix varsity soccer team huddles together during their timeout.
Phoenix Soccer Clawed by Wolverines in Final Minutes
Freshman Christian Bhide serves a ball during his singles match.
Rock Ridge Boys Tennis Team Triumphs Over Dominion Titans
Junior Alex Alkhal pitches the ball. “[I] just let it go and keep practicing so we can focus on our goal for the next game to get better as a team,” Alkhal said.
Phoenix Shows Resilience in Loss Against Titans
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
The album cover of “More Chaos” features a faceless Ken Carson in a blood-spattered shirt, visually capturing the album’s violent, chaotic tone, though the music rarely lives up to the image.
All Volume, No Vision: Ken Carson’s “More Chaos”
Warner Bros’ latest game-turned-movie adaptation released on Friday, April 4 with a rather destructive response for a more-or-less forgettable movie. “A Minecraft Movie” promotional poster by Mojang
“A Minecraft Movie” Explodes in Theaters, Literally and Figuratively
Senior Isabella Hasbun puts her costume on, getting ready and into character before the rehearsal.
Behind the Scenes of Rock Ridge Performing Arts Tarzan Rehearsals
As the first person to sign their certificate, senior Ricardo Diaz starts his path towards joining the U.S. Air Force.
“Sinners” Delivers an Unforgettable Cinematic Experience
After a lawsuit against Tiffany Smith, the manager and mother of popular child influencer Piper Rockelle, for alleged assault of the minors, many speculations were made regarding the rumors and if they were true. Netflix’s “Bad Influence: The Dark Side of Kidfluencing” seeked to clear up the mystery and share stories from the victims about their experiences with Tiffany. Courtesy of Netflix
“Bad Influence: The Dark Side of Kidfluencing.”
In the midst of all the end of year chaos, state testing can divert focus off of more important exams and activities and lead to an overly stressful time for students and faculty.
Get Rid Of State Testing in Middle and High Schools
Through taking photos, I found a way to share how I felt, even when I didn’t know how to say it.
Gerardi Swan Song: Not Just a Class Assignment
Sometimes life will show you so many light-at-the-end-of-the-tunnels, it becomes an overwhelming and blinding light. All you have to do is figure out which path you want to take, and follow that light til’ the end.
Manchala Swan Song: We Ended Up Alright
An image of the software TestNav that students use to take the Standards of Learning test.
State Testing: A Necessary Evil? Balancing the Burden With the Benefits
The album cover of “More Chaos” features a faceless Ken Carson in a blood-spattered shirt, visually capturing the album’s violent, chaotic tone, though the music rarely lives up to the image.
All Volume, No Vision: Ken Carson’s “More Chaos”
Classroom Conversations: AI in Classrooms
Classroom Conversations: AI in Classrooms
Classroom Conversations: What Do We Know About Title IX?
Classroom Conversations: What Do We Know About Title IX?
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
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
Riya Cherukuri

Riya Cherukuri, Staff Writer

Riya Cherukuri is a sophomore and a first year staffer on The Blaze. In her free time, Cherukuri enjoys baking desserts. Cherukuri also spends her time playing softball for Rock Ridge. She was motivated to play because her brother played baseball, so being on the field felt just right. Cherukuri hopes to continue playing in college.

All content by Riya Cherukuri
Sophomore Zoe Fyne-Okorie (left) and freshman Addison Dietz (right) strike a pose at the end of “Girls Just Wanna Dance,” arranged by Paul Langford.

Rock Ridge Sings Celebrates Seniors and Sends Them Off With Final Concert

Sruthi Vivek, Riya Cherukuri, and Bhargav Kuniki
June 6, 2024
Steve Park keeps the Rock Ridge community happy and healthy by providing care for all students with a smile.

National School Nurse Day: Honoring Steve Park

Riya Cherukuri, Staff Writer
May 10, 2024
Sophomore Akash Vangala positions himself to deliver a commanding serve toward his opponent during his intense and sweaty singles match. “I think I played well against some good competition,” Vangala said.

Next Stop, States: Phoenix Boys Dominate Over Knights

Riya Cherukuri and Alexis Cortés
May 9, 2024
Seniors Elena Frisby, Jacobo Borgen, and Zalaan Khan (from left to right) along with their recruiters gather to commemorate their signing. “The military has great benefits, and I grew up in a military-style household, so I just felt that it was only right,” Borgen said. “I like to think of myself as disciplined and hardworking.”

A Salute To Seniors: Signing To Their Military Journey

Shaila Patel, Riya Cherukuri, Sitwat Mian, and Hylay Assefa
May 9, 2024
“Might Delete Later” struggles to impress due to Cole’s empty lyrics and lack of individuality. Photo courtesy of Interscope Records.

J. Cole’s New Album ‘Might Delete Later’ Should Be Deleted Right Now

Riya Cherukuri, Staff Writer
May 1, 2024
Senior Arshan Shahjahan pushes past a Spartan defender as he dribbles the ball.

A War With the Weather: First Phoenix Draw of the Season

Sruthi Vivek, Bhargav Kuniki, Alexis Cortés, and Riya Cherukuri
April 8, 2024
When Coach Barry isn’t coaching, he works at his main job as a study hall teacher. He also loves watching movies and is an avid reader. His favorite book is “Nausea” by Jean-Paul Sartre, and his favorite movie is “The Godfather Part II” by Francis Ford Coppola. Photo Courtesy of Ousmane Barry.

Meet Football and Softball Assistant Coach: Ousmane Barry

Riya Cherukuri, Staff Writer
April 8, 2024
English teacher, Paul Koch, and his wife, Joanne, take a selfie together. The two met at a party hosted by their mutual friends and have been in love since.

From Sunburns to Love at First Sight: A Valentine’s Day Special

Riya Cherukuri, Staff Writer
March 7, 2024
Students rush onto the court to celebrate with the team after the buzzer beater three-pointer made by junior William Beck. “Honestly, I thought the game was over but then the clock stopped and my heart stopped," junior Mihir Peta said. “I was like, there’s no way this happened.”

Sinking a Last Shot on Senior Night: Phoenix Parade Over the Pride

Sruthi Vivek, Fran Rodriguez, and Riya Cherukuri
February 20, 2024
After the COVID-19 pandemic slowly died down, 2023 was a year full of promises for many students. From new movies to new experiences, students appreciated that the year allowed them to feel free for the first time in a few years.

A Chaotic and Unforgettable Year: Top Ten Moments of 2023

Sruthi Vivek and Riya Cherukuri
February 6, 2024
The gymnastics team huddles together with bright smiles on their faces after successfully finishing their last meet of 2023. The meet was hosted by Park View High School, and the Phoenix placed 4th overall.

Vaulting Into Gymnastics: Season Recap

Sruthi Vivek, Maya Coleman, and Riya Cherukuri
February 6, 2024
Seniors line up for their winter breakfast as their class sponsor, Liz Grainger, checks if they were pre-registered to ensure that food was not being wasted.

Seniors Eat Their Well-Deserved Breakfast at Quarterly Senior Breakfast

Hylay Assefa, Riya Cherukuri, and Sitwat Mian
January 10, 2024
Srikha Manubolu smiles in her brand-new Diwali outfit. “This year, I got a sparkly red and orange lehenga,” Manubolu said. “It’s my favorite Diwali outfit yet.” Photo courtesy of Srikha Manubolu.

A House Full of Diyas and a Mouth Full of Sweets: How Students Celebrate Diwali

Riya Cherukuri, Staff Writer
November 28, 2023
Veterans share their regards and say their goodbyes as they head out of the breakfast to honor their service. “I enjoy spending time with my kids and meeting other kids and their friends with the same background in military service,” veteran Littopaul Bacas (pictured on left) said.

Red, White, and Blue: Veterans Day Breakfast Recognizes Purple Star Distinction

Shaila Patel, Riya Cherukuri, and Azciel Goodhart
November 27, 2023
From the athletes to the academics, student backgrounds shine through in all aspects, highlighting the niche hobbies and lifestyles of the Phoenix student body. Graphic by: Tanishka Enugu and Aarohi Motwani.

Humans of Rock Ridge: Student Profiles

The Blaze Staff
November 3, 2023
Seniors Hari Kommu and Raushan Goureddy participate in the donut lunch game on Friday, Sept. 29, attempting to be the first team to fully eat the sugary dessert. Kommu and Goureddy ultimately came in second, however, and the junior team claimed the victory.

Class Competition Climax: Homecoming Spirit Week and Pep Rally

Tanishka Enugu, Riya Cherukuri, and Sitwat Mian
October 25, 2023
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