• Important Dates -->
  • June 2- Athletics Signing
  • June 4-Last Day for Seniors
  • June 10-Capstone Gala and Senior Awards
  • June 16- Graduation
The Student News Site of Rock Ridge High School

THE BLAZE
After a year of policy implementation, students seem to be more focused on getting their work done instead of getting distracted by their phone during class time.
Phoenix Staff and Students Reflect on Year of Cell Phone Policy Implementation
Through the credit recovery program, students have the opportunity to piece back together previously failed or unattempted assignments.
Credit Recovery: A Safety Net for Struggling Grades
An image of Biryani Grill’s Ashburn location.
From Hyderabad to Ashburn: The Story Behind Biryani Grill
Before students began arriving, Inova hospital staff set up seating beds and medical equipment to help guide students through the process.
A Different Kind of Giving: FBLA Hosts Annual Blood Drive at Rock Ridge
Through generous donations from the community, Women Giving Back stepped in to help students with affordable prom dresses. Through the dates April 4, 12, 14, and 28 their boutique was filled with dresses, shoes, accessories.
From Heart to Hanger: Women Giving Back Allows Every Girl to Shine at Prom
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
English teacher Susan Spengeman stands in the back of her classroom, instructing her AP (Advanced Placement) Literature students.
Susan Spengeman: A Teacher’s Teacher
Red Cross club president Varnika Miryala leads her members with the intention of helping her community through a medical sense.
Varunika in Charge: 11 Questions with the Red Cross President
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
This week’s athlete of the week spotlights a lacrosse player: sophomore Sehejdeep Kaur.
Athlete of the Week: Sehejdeep Kaur
Senior Jamari Anthony runs the Boys 4x400 Meter Relay Finals.
Phoenix Host Home Track Meet, Celebrates Seniors with Strong Performances
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 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
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
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.”
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”
“As I am signing off in EB Garamond, I notice that I didn’t find the belonging I came here to find; I found an identity. My experience in newspaper wasn’t defined by staying in room 1400, but by the confidence to leave this room, connect to the community at Rock Ridge, and find myself.” – Waas Swan Song: Belonging
Waas Swan Song: Belonging
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
Shaima Tora

Shaima Tora, Staff Writer

Shaima is a junior and this is her second year on staff. Shaima enjoys reading, drawing, watching movies and shows, and going out with her friends and family during her free time.

All content by Shaima Tora
Junior Sneha Nekkanty, freshman Arjun Alagappa, and junior Joanne Ma play the flutes in Ralph Vaughan William’s fast-paced “English Folk Song Suite.” “We did well blending with each other during this concert,” Nekkanty said. “Our intonation was also better [compared to] the beginning of the year.”

The Final Band Concert of the Year Bids Seniors Farewell

Manika Porchezhian, Shaima Tora, and Anushka Goski
June 6, 2022
Wednesday of National Nurses Week is designated as National School Nurse Appreciation Day, which runs from May 6 to May 12, in order to highlight the role that school nurses play in students and staff’s lives.

National School Nurse Appreciation Day Celebrates Robyn Wisti

Pavani Aakarapu and Shaima Tora
June 2, 2022
Posing for a picture, Phoenix MSA members await the announcement of the winners on March 27.

MSA Clears the “MIST” in D.C. Tournament

Shaima Tora, Staff Writer
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.

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
As 15% of Americans have been diagnosed with hearing problems, it’s time for movie theaters to start normalizing open captioning.

Making Movie Theaters More Inclusive

Shaima Tora, Staff Writer
April 8, 2022
The in-person RSEF event for finalists was hosted by Rock Ridge this year in the library. Winners within their respective categories were announced prior to this event through Google Meet judging.

Rock Ridge Hosts Regional Science and Engineering Fair

Megan Hayes, Manika Porchezhian, and Shaima Tora
April 1, 2022
“No Exit” had a great idea of placing its characters in a real-life horror situation; however, its execution is where the movie fell short.

There’s “No Exit” In Sight to Escape This Dull Thriller

Shaima Tora, Staff Writer
March 22, 2022
On Jan. 11, the school board met to discuss the rising COVID-19 cases within the county and how LCPS is addressing the surge using newly-released CDC guidelines.

LCPS School Board Works to Remain Open Through Omicron Surge

Megan Langsam, Manika Porchezhian, and Shaima Tora
February 8, 2022
Marvel Studio’s “Eternals” has grossed $300 million globally, topping the box office for two weeks after its release on Nov. 5.

“Eternals” Touches on Diverse Topics Rarely Seen in the Marvel Universe

Mariam Abdelsayed and Shaima Tora
February 5, 2022
Although the movie wasn’t executed well as a whole, “The 355” provides a fresh take on the film industry— a group of diverse, independent women fighting to save the world.

“The 355:” A Shamefully Stale Spy Story

Manika Porchezhian and Shaima Tora
February 5, 2022
With candy canes twisted in her hair for Candy Cane Day, freshman Ginny Mcgee listened as the SCA provided updates on the spirit points during her lunch block.

Students Warm Up for Break with Winter Spirit Week

Shaima Tora, Manika Porchezhian, Alexis Cortés, and Rodrigue Gomado
February 4, 2022
Freshman Saihaj Kaur and junior Deeksha Borra clash with the Captains in an attempt to score a goal. A few moments after the attempt, Kaur suffered an injury to her ankle and toe. “When I first joined, I was like ‘oh my God, I can’t do this,’ but now, it might be a little hard, but I can do it,” Kaur said.

Team Spirit Reignites

Prajna Chakravarty, Lilly Khalkho, Shaima Tora, and Rodrigue Gomado
October 26, 2021
Competing against the seniors, juniors Srikar Bangaru, Bhrugu Bhatt, Anirudh Rao, Mihir Prasad and Eshan Mathur cheer as loud as they can as streamers are thrown down the junior crowd. The minigame ended in a win for the, leaving the juniors in second place.

Homecoming Pep Rally Brings School Spirit to Students

Sarah Baig, Abhishek Sharma, Shaima Tora, and Anik Mridha
October 26, 2021
Neha Nair, 11

Neha Nair, 11

Shaima Tora, Staff Writer
September 30, 2021
Former Vice President Joe Biden and President Donald Trump battle it out on the debate stage in Nashville, Tenn. at the final presidential debate.

Final Presidential Debate: Highlights and Hot Topics

Megan Hayes, Viv Bali, Shaima Tora, and Anushka Goski
January 20, 2021
Avishi Gupta, 10

Avishi Gupta, 10

Shaima Tora, Staff Writer
November 9, 2020
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