• Important Dates -->
  • 4/20: United Spring Fling
  • 4/27-5/4: RRPA's 'Frozen'
  • 4/23: NEHS Open Mic Night
  • 5/1: Senior Sports Signing
  • 5/3: Decision Day & Military Signing Day
  • 5/9: 'May I Serve' Day
The Student News Site of Rock Ridge High School

THE BLAZE
Surrounded by her colleagues from the social science department, Aisha Ahmed proudly displays her “New Teacher of the Year” award. “They did a really good job keeping it a surprise from me and I think its hopefully a testament to what I try to do,” Ahmed said. Photo courtesy of Katy Greiner Babcock.
Sincere Support: Ahmed Named LCPS “New Teacher of the Year”
Hostess and English teacher Jessica Berg engages the audience while leading the Summit. Before the event took place, Berg was working hard to organize, contact, and piece together the inner workings of the event, as many big names, scholars, and guests were attending the much-anticipated event.
Women’s Rights Activists Rise Above at the “Rise To” Summit
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
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
Standing center stage, senior Ananya Akula conducts the Phoenix Chorale. “[Conducting and teaching] is really fun,” Akula said. “Music education is what I want to do.” On the day of the choir assessment, Akula found out that she received the President’s Music Scholarship – a full ride to the University of Miami Frost School of Music.
Melodies of Emotion: Chorus Performs Pre-Assessment Concert
Rock Ridge Alumni Works to Outshine Skin Cancer One Stitch at a Time
Phoenix Profiles: Humans of Rock Ridge
Phoenix Profiles: Humans of Rock Ridge
LCPS has experimented with the schedule in the past, leading to much controversy. Students and staff are left with mixed feelings regarding this years schedule change.
The New Schedule: the Positive, the Negative, and the Neutral
Volume V, Issue II: Winter 2022
Volume V, Issue II: Winter 2022
Return to The Rock
Return to The Rock
The U.S. Capitol on the morning of President Bidens Inauguration.
Road To The Presidency
A distorted image of an I Voted sticker from Loudoun County. (Photo courtesy of Katy Greiner)
What’s A Rumor You’ve Heard About The Election?
The general election, and final day to vote, will take place on Nov. 3. In Virginia, polls will be open from 6 a.m. to 7 p.m.
What To Expect On Decision Day: Ins and Outs Of Following A Major Election
President Donald Trump delivers the State of the Union address at the U.S. Capitol on Feb. 5, 2019. (White House/Shaelah Craighead)
Trump Agrees on New Spending Bill; Promises an Emergency Declaration
Senior Kyle Woody and sophomore Riya Cheruki pitch for their teams. The game had many ups and downs for both the opponent and the Phoenix, but in the end, the Lightning were able to secure the win for both their softball and baseball teams.
Lightning Strike Phoenix During Baseball/Softball Double Header
Freshman Leeyu Assefa returns a powerful serve in her scrimmage match. “It’s definitely an experience, sometimes it can be a lot seeing people who are more talented and really skilled when you’re first starting off,” freshman and Assefa’s teammate Skylar Helms said.
Cross-District Deuces: Phoenix Falter to Rams
The Phoenix set up for the next play as the Patriots gain possession of the ball.
Phoenix Girls Lacrosse Takes on the Patriots in a Hard Fought Game
With unwavering concentration, sophomore Sathvik Mathi positions himself on the tennis court, eyes fixed on the fluorescent yellow ball, as he prepares to strike. His grip tightens around the handle of his racket as he gets ready to swing. With a swift and powerful motion, he connects with the ball, sending it hurtling toward his opponents side of the court.
Phoenix Boys Tennis Trample Over Spartans
With the energy and effort the Bolts were bringing to the game, the Phoenix had to step up and match them to make it through their first game of the season. Many of the girls on the team, including freshman Nazly Rostom, have been playing soccer since their childhood and have grown a love for the sport as a result. “It was fun to see how we actually played in a [real] game,” Rostom said. “Even though the outcome was not what we were hoping for, I’m still happy we got to play together.”
Phoenix Stand Strong Against the Lightning’s Thunder
As the cross country season comes to an end, team members managed to qualify for districts. Although it was the first time the boys made it to districts, senior Ayush Marwaha still treated the meet like any other. “The atmosphere has always been crazy at the meet,” Marwaha said. “The adrenaline rush is always insane, but I feel like Ive gotten used to it. Before every meet, I always tell myself to try and be calm.”
Cross Country Races Towards Districts
A four-year member of the program, senior Austin Fisher searches for an opening in hopes of securing a crucial first down for the Phoenix. An elite receiver and linebacker, Fisher has consistently made an impact not only on offense and defense, but also off the field.
Senior Night Sparks Phoenix Win Over Atoms
Held up by a group of cheerleaders, flyer sophomore Leyu Yonas poses as part of a stunt, also supported by flyer junior Shayne Mitchell behind her. (Left) Prior to the pink out football game on Oct. 13, the athletes practiced in the aux gym from 5 p.m. to 6:30 p.m. (Right) On Oct. 19, the cheerleaders competed in their District Championships at Woodgrove High School. “We definitely put all our effort on the mat [at Districts], and it showed,” Mitchell said. Left: Photo by Nadia Shirr. Right: Photo by Steve Prakope via Victor O’Neill Studios.
From Practice to Performance and Beyond: Cheer Season Recap
Sophomore Xavier Smith (6), the Phoenix quarterback, runs the ball as his teammates help hold up the defense. “My [offensive] line collapses, so I just [have to run], and its a good way to get first downs because [Tuscarora’s] defense was really good,” Smith said.
Phoenix Face Loss, Falling Victim to Friday the 13
The Phoenix football team runs out onto the field to take on the Loudoun Valley Vikings for the Homecoming football game, concluding a week of fun and games for students.
Spirit Week Ends with a Final Play Against Vikings
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 thats 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 Kyle Woody and sophomore Riya Cheruki pitch for their teams. The game had many ups and downs for both the opponent and the Phoenix, but in the end, the Lightning were able to secure the win for both their softball and baseball teams.
Lightning Strike Phoenix During Baseball/Softball Double Header
Freshman Leeyu Assefa returns a powerful serve in her scrimmage match. “It’s definitely an experience, sometimes it can be a lot seeing people who are more talented and really skilled when you’re first starting off,” freshman and Assefa’s teammate Skylar Helms said.
Cross-District Deuces: Phoenix Falter to Rams
The Phoenix set up for the next play as the Patriots gain possession of the ball.
Phoenix Girls Lacrosse Takes on the Patriots in a Hard Fought Game
With unwavering concentration, sophomore Sathvik Mathi positions himself on the tennis court, eyes fixed on the fluorescent yellow ball, as he prepares to strike. His grip tightens around the handle of his racket as he gets ready to swing. With a swift and powerful motion, he connects with the ball, sending it hurtling toward his opponents side of the court.
Phoenix Boys Tennis Trample Over Spartans
With the energy and effort the Bolts were bringing to the game, the Phoenix had to step up and match them to make it through their first game of the season. Many of the girls on the team, including freshman Nazly Rostom, have been playing soccer since their childhood and have grown a love for the sport as a result. “It was fun to see how we actually played in a [real] game,” Rostom said. “Even though the outcome was not what we were hoping for, I’m still happy we got to play together.”
Phoenix Stand Strong Against the Lightning’s Thunder
Tiller released his fourth album as a self-titled album to show R&B enthusiasts that his run isn’t over, and that he’s starting a brand-new chapter in his music career.
He’s Back & He’s Better: Bryson Tiller Releases Self-Titled Album
The album cover for “Compliments of Grave Digger Mountain” portrays NBA YoungBoy as a mountain, hinting at the theme of him overcoming his challenges.
My Compliments to NBA YoungBoy for Making His Third Dull Album In a Row
Po must choose a worthy candidate of being the Dragon Warrior as he advances to a higher position in the kung fu hierarchy. The most unexpected candidate ends up being the one that strikes Po’s eyes the most and is trusted to ensure the peace of the people.
Kung Fu Panda Kicks Back Into Theaters
In “eternal sunshine,” Ariana Grande navigates the aftermath of her divorce from Dalton Gomez and the complexities of her new relationship with co-star Ethan Slater in the “Wicked” adaptation, exploring themes of heartbreak, resilience, and self-discovery.
Ariana Grande Shimmers in the Bright Haze of ‘eternal sunshine’
A dark fantasy film, “Damsel” flips the classic trope of ‘knights in shining armor’ saving the distressed princess on its head. Photo courtesy of Netflix.
“Damsel:” A Testament to Women’s Empowerment
Artificial Intelligence did not stop evolving when the ChatGPT craze flatlined, and a big scare involving OpenAI’s latest project demonstrates it.
The Controversy That Is Artificial Intelligence Development in 2024
From Friday the 13th being an unlucky day to knocking twice on wood, everyone has their own beliefs and superstitions, and some are held more strongly than others.
Superstitions Found To Affect Mental Health
Many companies often ask customers to round up at the register, but whether or not to do so can be a difficult decision for uninformed shoppers.
Rounding up: Right or Wrong?
Gift-giving is a way for a person to show their love and admiration through something other than words, physical touch, quality time, etc. It gives people a reason to do something special for someone, and it can be prominent all year round, not only for special occasions.
The Art of Gift Giving
Alabama recently implemented a new form of execution: nitrogen-induced hypoxia. This is the newest form of execution since 1982 when lethal injections were first used; the execution has caused controversy among advocates against the death penalty and health professionals.
Death to the Death Penalty
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 Ridges 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
Meet RRHS: Vaishnavi Raghunandan
The Unity
The Unity
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 Ridges 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
Meet RRHS: Vaishnavi Raghunandan
Book Bans: Silencing the Voices of Now
Book Bans: Silencing the Voices of Now
The Student News Site of Rock Ridge High School

THE BLAZE
The Student News Site of Rock Ridge High School

THE BLAZE
Shaila Patel

Shaila Patel, Website Coordinator

Shaila Patel is a senior in her second year on the newspaper staff, fueled by her strong sense of curiosity. Since a young age, Patel has been aiding people close to her. Whether it be through PEER or through daily actions, she is passionate about helping strangers, close friends, and family who are struggling in any way, but especially with any mental health concerns. Caring is a big part of who she is. Patel is also an avid dancer. She believes that dance is a form of art, especially the Indian classical dance she practices, Bharatanatyam. Patel sees it as a useful tool for many to convey stories, culture, who people are, and more. 

All content by Shaila Patel
Trying to make themselves seem as inviting as possible, many students meticulously select photos representative of their personalities and day-to-day lives for Instagram pages dedicated to a universitys incoming freshman class.

Roommate Speed Dating: College in the Digital Age

Tanishka Enugu and Shaila Patel
April 8, 2024
Freshman defenseman Brooks Furtek (44) cross-checks a Seahawk in a race to get the puck.

Pride/Phoenix Stir Up the Hornets/Seahawks Nest

Tanishka Enugu, Nidhi Manchala, Shaila Patel, and Lucian Tiller
February 20, 2024
Freshmen Evan Danh and Alex Bethke play their viola and cello while bouncing off each other, reading the piece, and combining both their sounds to create a new one.

Phoenix Orchestra Polyphonically Prepare For Assessment

Shaila Patel, Tanishka Enugu, and Hylay Assefa
February 20, 2024
Sophomore Lucy Cho (left) and senior Isabella Lopez (right) fight for the jump ball in the hands of a Judge. “Individually I realized that if I put more emphasis on defense, then I could contribute more to the team,” Lopez said. “As a big and being 5 feet 6 inches, I was getting blocked like crazy by girls who are 6 feet [tall].”

Judges Sentence Phoenix to Loss

Tanishka Enugu, Shaila Patel, and Azciel Goodhart
February 2, 2024
Marketing teacher Ben Stodala sits in front of his advisorys door, decorated in phrases such as “And wheres your e-hall pass?” and “Sorry, your name is not on the list.” These comedic school-specific additions were an aspect that his class enjoyed most, as it allowed them to explore a new side of their advisory class. “A lot of the topics we cover are more serious in advisory but with door decorating everyone can just sit there and have fun,” Stodola said.

Door Decorating Brings Life Back to the Halls

Tanishka Enugu and Shaila Patel
January 28, 2024
Senior Kyle Desai gets into shooting position at the freethrow line, ready to take his foul shots. “I think I did well scoring the ball but there are definitely things I couldve done better,” Desai said. “I had too many turnovers, I couldve been much cleaner with the ball and made better passes. [But], overall a solid game.”

Conquistadors Clash With Phoenix in Neck-and-Neck Contest

Shaila Patel, Tanishka Enugu, and Fran Rodriguez
January 3, 2024
the basketball basketball

[Photo]

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
Sophomore Xavier Smith (6), the Phoenix quarterback, runs the ball as his teammates help hold up the defense. “My [offensive] line collapses, so I just [have to run], and its a good way to get first downs because [Tuscarora’s] defense was really good,” Smith said.

Phoenix Face Loss, Falling Victim to Friday the 13

Shaila Patel, Danielle Kimpson Kaley, and Nidhi Manchala
November 1, 2023
Eric Duke paddle boards around a lake during the year he spent living in Hawaii (Photo courtesy of Eric Duke).

New Government Teacher Makes Waves

Sam Cho and Shaila Patel
October 27, 2023
Every year Rock Ridge welcomes new additions from many different specialties and subjects to join the tight-knit Phoenix community. Whether its in physical education, social studies, or ESL, each newcomer to The Rock is seamlessly introduced to the unique atmosphere that the school provides. All carry a different “why?” for their reason to teach.

Fresh Faces at The Rock: New Teachers Spotlight

Tanishka Enugu, Shaila Patel, and Maya Coleman
October 2, 2023
Sophomore Nila Divakar (left) and senior Noor Jiwad (right) share more about the Writers Union club with a fellow Phoenix. “My friend and I really like writing, so she recruited me. Writing is very important to us, so we made a club,” Divakar said.

Gyms Overflow With Unique Clubs, Old And New

Rachel Adams and Shaila Patel
September 27, 2023
Junior Ruth Gemechu guides her blindfolded partner, junior Kailyn Fetterman, as they try to stack cups.

Kicking off the School Year With Spirit Week

Ananya Karthik, Shivu Sathe, Maya Coleman, Rachel Adams, and Shaila Patel
September 11, 2023
Senior Sarah Baig holds surprise gifts from her teammates as a celebration of her senior night.

Phoenix Girls Lacrosse Celebrate Senior Night Against the Patriots

Shaila Patel, Bella Strano, and Rachel Adams
May 22, 2023
Seniors Sneha Khandavalli and Keerthana Govindarajan cheerfully are crowned as the winners of the Phoenix pageant on Feb 17.

Talent is an Open Door at the Annual Phoenix Pageant

Sarah Baig, Tanishka Enugu, and Shaila Patel
March 29, 2023
Expressing his interest in the Marines as a possible career, junior Emmanuel Bankole signs up for one of the various programs offered by their display. The Marines came to the job fair to provide students with multiple pathways with a fast-track to joining the Marines, like summer programs, the Marine Reserves, or scholarship opportunities.

Summer Job Fair Kicks Off New Opportunities For Students

Aarohi Motwani, Ivana Figueroa, Aline Gonzalez, Rachel Adams, and Shaila Patel
March 29, 2023
Nat Bodman’s performance started with him covered in glow sticks around his body, extenuating certain parts. The lights turned off and he was glowing. With the audience in shock, he started dancing on stage to Sugar Plum Fairy from the Nutcracker.

[Photo]

March 29, 2023
At the Jan. 9 home double header against Briar Woods, senior Nick Canfield keeps an eye on the ball and defends the basket during the boys game. During the girls game, sophomore Kalen Walker prepares to take a free throw shot.

Double Headers Bring 2 Star Players Forward

Mariam Abdelsayed, Rachel Adams, Karis Adnan, and Shaila Patel
January 31, 2023
Junior Cora Bowen dribbles the ball towards the basket, following a turnover that led to Phoenix possession.

Phoenix Take Flight Against the Falcons in a Double Header Matchup

Mariam Abdelsayed, Rachel Adams, Karis Adnan, and Shaila Patel
January 31, 2023
Netflix has taken many popular TV shows and movies off of their platform, sparking a variety of opinions from Netflix’s users about the removal of their favorite media.

We All Love Netflix, but What About the New Changes?

Rachel Adams and Shaila Patel
January 19, 2023
Many students at the Rock participate in something creative and unique to celebrate the holidays.

Phoenix Celebrate Unique Traditions This Holiday Season

Shaila Patel and Rachel Adams
January 4, 2023
Sophomore Mekhi Motilewa dribbles around his defender while they pressure him.“[We need to] play at our own pace,” Motilewa said. “Sometimes we sped up and we didnt keep our composure when we were pressured by the defense…and running our own plays and some communication would help.”

Spartans Conquer the Phoenix in a Head-to-Head Matchup

Sarah Baig, Tanishka Enugu, Shaila Patel, and Bella Strano
December 19, 2022
Age plays a big part in how kids and teens feel about Halloween. When kids are younger, they tend to have more fun, but does that also mean that they get scared easier? While the next generation may love horror films, how this might affect kids at younger ages may keep both kids and parents up on Halloween night.

The Horrors Of Halloween

Rachel Adams and Shaila Patel
October 31, 2022
Sanjana Rao, 11

Sanjana Rao, 11

Shaila Patel, Website Coordinator
October 25, 2022
Senior Karis Adnan sets off the point by serving the ball to the opposing team. The Phoenix kept the game lighthearted as they continued to lead. “We have been on a really good winning streak, so that was really fun,” Adnan said.

Phoenix Dominate the Patriots on Senior Night

Tanishka Enugu, Shaila Patel, and Nadia Shirr
October 20, 2022
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