• Important Dates -->
  • 9/23: Clash of Classes Kickball Game
  • 9/24: Anything But a Backpack Day
  • 9/25: Hallway Decorating
  • 9/26: Pep Rally!
  • 9/27: Homecoming Football Game
  • 9/28: Homecoming Dance
The Student News Site of Rock Ridge High School

THE BLAZE
Lightspeed is a technology management software that provides visibility of students’ devices during class time, ensuring engagement and productivity during school hours. Rachel Bhardwaj and Divitha Mathe
Watchful Eye: The Implementation of Lightspeed in LCPS
Junior Laura Adams puts her phone into the device holder at the beginning of her AP Language and Composition class.
From Phone-Friendly to Phone-Free: Virginia Dept. of Education Implements State-Wide Cell Phone Policy
Rosh Hashanah has many traditions, including feasting on traditional foods as well as celebrating with family. On Rosh Hashanah, a horn known as a shofar, is used to awaken people from repentance.
Rosh Hashanah: Celebrating the Start of a New Year
If a LCPS student attempts to open a Pinterest page on a school device or school Wi-Fi, they are met with a blocked notice featuring the link name accompanied by the comment “is not available because it is categorized as Pinterest.” Many other pages are banned under the category of “mature art” or “games,” so it is notable that the platform has received its own block category.
A Block on Creativity: LCPS Broadens Website Bans to Include Pinterest
On the first Tuesday of two monthly meetings, the school board met to discuss streamlining processes, public opinion, policy changes, and more.
School Board Meeting Discusses School Accountability and Accreditation Changes, Free Speech Policy Changes, Distinguished Schools in English Learning
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
The team huddles together before the second set starts, displaying their strong bond. “We hang out a lot during school,” senior Lola Aguilar said. “I'd recommend trying to get to know everyone.”
Despite Best Efforts, Rams Take the Win Against Phoenix in Second Home Volleyball Game
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
The team huddles together before the second set starts, displaying their strong bond. “We hang out a lot during school,” senior Lola Aguilar said. “I'd recommend trying to get to know everyone.”
Despite Best Efforts, Rams Take the Win Against Phoenix in Second Home Volleyball Game
The team celebrates their win against the Titans in a huddle around star player of the night, Eryn Chemoiwa, congratulating her on her accomplishments.
Free Throws and Four-Point Plays: A New Phoenix Rises to the Challenge
Phoenix cheerleaders complete a chant at a home basketball game. “Smooth and easy that's what we do,” senior cheer captain Reagan Carper said.
From Friday Night Lights to Bright Gym Lights
As the referee throws the ball up for the tip-off, freshman Simone Diby leaps towards the ball to get it in Phoenix possession. Diby is a new member of the Phoenix girls basketball team, and despite it being a change, she finds it enjoyable. “It’s definitely a different experience if you’ve never played on a team, [but] I think it’s still fun.”
Phoenix Take Down the Titans
Freshman defenseman Brooks Furtek (44) cross-checks a Seahawk in a race to get the puck.
Pride/Phoenix Stir Up the Hornets/Seahawks Nest
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
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
With his eyes on the ball, senior Aryan Dhiman swings his racket hard in order to get an advantage over his opponent.
Phoenix Tennis Teams Take the Title at Districts
Seniors Sierra Bell and Ashi Akula advance upfield with the ball.
Phoenix Girls Lacrosse Displays Impressive Effort Against Briar Woods
Senior Wardah Islam sings her solo for “A Choice to Change the World.”
Voices of Change: Rock Ridge Sings is in Tune with Community
The plot of “Monsters” juggles conflicting tones and confusing characterizations, turning a complex case into a muddled narrative mess. Promotional Image of “Monsters: The Lyle and Erik Menendez Story”
Sensationalism Over Substance: ‘Monsters: The Lyle and Erik Menendez Story’ Turns Tragedy into Trash
Paris Hilton falls from a star, showcasing her fall from stardom in the pop industry. Her recent release of “Infinite Icon” is accelerating her fall due to its poor quality.
‘Infinite Icon’: Paris Hilton’s Recent Album Has Been Forgotten in the New Generation of Pop
“Short n’ Sweet” showcases Sabrina Carpenter’s seamless blend of wit and catchy melodies, making it her most compelling and confident album to date. Photo Courtesy of Island Records
Sabrina Carpenter’s ‘Short n’ Sweet’: A Masterclass in Pop Precision and Playful Provocation
Sophomores Ronald Hodge III, who plays Tom Collins, and Angel LaBosette, who plays Angel Dumott Schunard, star center stage during their number, “Santa Fe.”
Running It Back: ‘‘RENT’’ Revival to Take International Thespian Festival Main Stage
Rundown Politics: Voting Registration
Rundown Politics: Voting Registration
TikTok is on death row for nine months as the US government recently passed a bill to ban the use and download of TikTok across the US.
TikTok is Running Out of Time: TikTok Ban Bill Was Signed
Colors, contrasts, font, size, neatness, background, context, and more, all contribute to the particular style of one’s handwriting. How far has handwriting, as an art form, come? Taking a look back in history and comparing it to modern-day practices shows how little yet how far the art form has transitioned, especially with its recent booming on digital platforms.
The Lost Art of Penmanship: Rediscovering the Beauty of Handwriting
The phone-free school movement started as a small act and is now spreading all over the United States, and will continue until something is done about it.
Should Schools Go Phone Free?
Rock Ridge Road Infrastructure poses grave concerns due to immense traffic during congested pickup and drop off times for car riders and bus riders, along with potential safety hazards for bicyclists and pedestrians having to share a sidewalk.
Traffic Trauma: Rock Ridge Road Infrastructure Causes Heavy Traffic Every Morning
Rundown Politics: Voting Registration
Rundown Politics: Voting Registration
Classroom Conversations: The Cell Phone Policy
Classroom Conversations: The Cell Phone Policy
‘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
At the U.S. Air National Guard stand, two guardswoman talk to interested students and parents about participation and college programs offered. Other divisions of the military, like the U.S. Army, Navy and Air Force attended the event as well, spreading information about their various scholarships and military programs.
Making Connections and Seeking Opportunities: Over 1000 Students Attend the Annual Summer Job Fair
‘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
At the U.S. Air National Guard stand, two guardswoman talk to interested students and parents about participation and college programs offered. Other divisions of the military, like the U.S. Army, Navy and Air Force attended the event as well, spreading information about their various scholarships and military programs.
Making Connections and Seeking Opportunities: Over 1000 Students Attend the Annual Summer Job Fair
SPED Dean Jesse Hudson fist bumps sophomore Keira Bacas as she steps out of the school bus to begin her first day of school on Aug. 24. Teachers and students were excited to return back to school for Rock Ridge's 10th year and were looking forward to starting the school year with new projects.
Welcome Back, Phoenix!
Class of 2023: 23 Questions with Jack Capobianco
The Student News Site of Rock Ridge High School

THE BLAZE
The Student News Site of Rock Ridge High School

THE BLAZE
Dominika Butler

Dominika Butler, A&E Copy Editor

Dominika Butler is on to complete her third and final year of newspaper as a senior. However, she continues her pathway of expressing creativity through writing and photography, hoping to pursue a career in education.

All content by Dominika Butler
(Pictured in blue) I patch together what I can recall about my kindergarten graduation, a distant memory. However, my upcoming graduation may stay as a framed photograph, recognizing the growth I made throughout the years.

Butler Swan Song: Grown

Dominika Butler, A&E Copy Editor
May 23, 2022
At practice, the Phoenix crew team rows an 8-person boat. “In each boat, you have either 4 people or 8 people,” junior Alan Saju said. “And so if all those people aren’t working together at the same time, the boat’s not going to be going anywhere.”

How Crew Makes a Splash with Teamwork

Hylay Assefa, Dominika Butler, and Rohan Iyer
May 6, 2022
Mei Lee, a 13 year old Canadian-Chinese girl, spends a casual day getting good grades, spending time with friends, fangirling over 4*TOWN, and helping her mom at her family’s temple. Although everything is always perfect, there’s an underlying fluffy issue she hides.

How “Turning Red” Did What “Inside Out” Couldn’t

Dominika Butler, A&E Copy Editor
April 27, 2022
Hands, colored with the Polish flag colors, reach out to grab a dove representing peace. Poland provides a helping hand to support Ukraine during the difficult challenges of war. “Polish citizens stand united with Ukrainians, provide them with shelter, financial and psychological help and basically any support they need,” Polish citizen and Polish-English teacher Marta Kowalewska said.

The Bystander Effect: Poland’s Perspective

Dominika Butler, A&E Copy Editor
March 30, 2022
SOPHIE poses for her album cover of “OIL OF EVERY PEARL’S UNINSIDES.” When naming her album, she stated that she was under the influence and thought that it sounded cool. “I told it to other people and they were like, ‘That’s annoying and really pretentious sounding,’” SOPHIE said. “I thought, ‘Everyone hates it. I’ll use it.’”

Remembering SOPHIE, the Transgender Pop Trendsetter

Dominika Butler, A&E Copy Editor
February 25, 2022
Although women had the ability to play in sports before Title IX, they weren’t given the same equal opportunities as men. Title IX, now 50 years later, provides the same protections and equality for any athlete regarding equipment and participation in sports.

50 Years on the Field: Title IX Still Impacts Student Athletes Today

Dominika Butler and Megan Langsam
February 22, 2022

Whitney Leach

Nicolas Biernacki, Dominika Butler, and Rohan Iyer
February 16, 2022

Katie Doppelheuer

Nicolas Biernacki, Dominika Butler, and Rohan Iyer
February 16, 2022
As new counselors Whitney Leach and Katie Doppelheuer started their counseling journey as a Phoenix, they received encouragement from students and fellow staff members. “I had been working with one student for a couple weeks, and they weren’t too sure if they were going to do well in their class or not,” Doppelheuer said. “And at the end of the semester…they came to me and said ‘I got the grade I wanted to get’ and they thanked me for just being an ear who listened and helped them work through their stress.”

These New Phoenix Counselors Are Already Making a Difference

Nicolas Biernacki, Dominika Butler, and Rohan Iyer
February 16, 2022
Tone tags are beneficial for individuals who struggle to pick up social and emotional cues, especially through text. Tone tags can be viewed as simple labels at the end of text messages to clarify the voice or tone of the individual’s text.

The Internet Tool That Makes Conversations Click

Dominika Butler, A&E Copy Editor
February 3, 2022
The Madrigals are a Colombian family blessed with special gifts. Each family member has their own power gained through the magical house they live in. There’s a little magic in all of them except for one. The film comes to Disney+ on Dec. 24.

Disney’s “Encanto” Faces Broken Families

Dominika Butler, A&E Copy Editor
February 2, 2022
Growing up dealing with the increased amount of responsibilities, seniors have the constant pressure of managing their homework, jobs, extracurriculars, college admissions, and more. All these factors combined can cause an overwhelming feeling of stress for students.

Seniors Deserve Asynchronous Mondays

Dominika Butler and Megan Hayes
February 2, 2022
LGBTQ+ pride protests (like the one pictured in Katowice, Poland in Sept 2019) have been a recurring event since the 1900s. In the 21st century, these movements have spread globally and became more socially acceptable.

LGBTQ+ History: Defined Through the Timeline

Rachel Adams, Dominika Butler, Aline Gonzalez, and Sydney Hackett
November 18, 2021
Students crowd the hallways, swarming towards the concession stand for their weekly treat of a Chick-fil-A sandwich.

I survived Chick-fil-A Friday

Dominika Butler, A&E Copy Editor
November 1, 2021
Phoenix varsity volleyball team discusses the game plan with their coaches as they prepare to take on the Captains.

Despite Loss Against Captains, Phoenix Ace Match

Rohan Iyer, Dominika Butler, Rachel Adams, and Alyssa Yoon
October 27, 2021
Members of the freshmen and junior classes fire up the crowd with a cheer to increase the Phoenix spirit. “I loved [the tailgate], it was awesome. This is my very first high school event with people [and] other highschoolers. Even though this is a practice, it’s my very first football game. It’s been an incredible experience,” freshman Jaden Thomas said.

The Revival of Phoenix Spirit

Dominika Butler and Megan Hayes
October 3, 2021
Mariah Waters, 10

Mariah Waters, 10

Dominika Butler, A&E Copy Editor
September 30, 2021
Nathan Ayestas, 12

Nathan Ayestas, 12

Dominika Butler, A&E Copy Editor
November 10, 2020
Theater teacher Rebekah Hess has spent quarantine and summer break preparing her home office for the school year. “I ended up decluttering over 2,320 items in the last three months,” Hess said. Her office contains scented candles, an open window, a ginormous planner, and a special furry friend, Gibbs.

Teachers Prep Back to School Teaching Spaces

Dominika Butler, A&E Copy Editor
November 1, 2020
Runners from all different schools compete in the cold for the VHSL Cross Country State Championship.

[Photo] Seniors Cross the Finish Line At States

Sarah Baig and Madisyn Smith
December 17, 2019
CTE teacher Ben Stodola gets blocked by senior Joel Viola.

Staff v. Student: The Battle Over Volleyball

Dominika Butler and Sarah Baig
December 17, 2019
Juniors Michael Moss, Jake Harris and Cynthia Moss talk about progression updates for their comic Roger and Death.

The Revolution of Graphic Artists

Dominika Butler, A&E Copy Editor
December 17, 2019
Cross country teams from the region race across the finish line of the last meet of the season.

Cross Country’s Inspiration to Push Forward

Dominika Butler and Megan Hayes
November 25, 2019
Sophomore Anurag Gottipati helps decorate her class hallway. Gottipati is an SCA representative for the sophomore class and was helping decide how to decorate the middle of the hallway. Gottipati explains the plans for the hallway, “We’re trying to make the rocket right now, and we are covering the ceilings with black paper so we can prevent any light from coming in because we’re trying to mimic space.”

Grade Levels Battle for Hallway Decorating Victory

Harini Kannan, Lilly Khalkho, and Dominika Butler
October 24, 2019
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