ABC's of Ripon High School Leadership
Read below to see what the students in the RHS Leadership class accomplish within one year of education.
The Leadership program at Ripon High School works diligently every day to bring forth exciting activities for the students on campus along with developing key professional skills that will allow success both in high school and in their future. Allow the simplicity of our alphabet to showcase all that we do and strive to excel in every event.
A
Attendance: Coming to class daily is extremely important for the success of each activity on our campus. We rarely work independently. Therefore, we work together and depend on one another to accomplish various tasks to bring events full circle. We also reach out to other clubs and sports teams on campus to make activities successful and involve many.
Announcements: Seniors and ASB Executive members spend every day sharing announcements with the school. A variety of items are discussed within the announcements: highlights of sporting events, spirit dress-up days, club meetings, future sporting events, award winners, etc. Communication, a key standard in the leadership program and recognized through the California Association of Directors of Activities, is very important so that students at RHS know about opportunities that they can enjoy or further their education.
ASB Banquet: At the end of each academic year, ASB Plans a banquet for the Leadership Class to participate in. This event recognizes class advisors, the most spirited staff members, and members of the leadership class for their hard work and character. Many awards are given out at this event. The theme of the banquet is based on the personality of the class. Typically, this event takes place in the MUB and happens in May. A small gift is normally given to students, sometimes lanyards or different items that reflect the unique personality of each leadership class.
A-G College Prep Approval: It is the goal of the leadership program to submit an application to the UC College Level for formal approval of the “G” requirement to represent a college prep course based on the curriculum and procedures. Submission occurred in February 2016. Formal approval was given on March 28th, 2016.
Almond Blossom Parking Lot: The leadership program has volunteered to work parking lot shifts at Almond Blossom to raise money for our program. It is required to do at least one shift, and preferred to have an adult/parent volunteer as well! Peers can sign up and choose their time frames for their shifts on a Google Spreadsheet. Also, the leadership program has to send the Activities Director pictures of proof that they completed their shift as expected.
B
Board Meetings: As active members in our community, students in leadership serve their civic duty by attending one board meeting per year. Students are required to attend one board meeting in professional clothing. They are also required to do a write-up of what happened in the meeting as well as turn in detailed notes of what happened while they went to the meeting. This is a great way for students to practice professionalism and learn more about what happens within the school board.
Book Study: Leaders benefit from reading the works of others and applying them to their own lives. For the past few years, Leadership students have been reading different novels that include matters like relationships, professionalism, communication, problem-solving, and other leadership-related topics. Book studies often ignite a fierce conversation about life or the topic at hand. A reflection is then completed and published on the students’ websites. Book studies have been done on “Don’t Sweat the Small Stuff,” and “Dare to Lead”.
C
Career Research: Part of the curriculum in the course of leadership includes research on career interests. Each year students research three potential job options that they find interesting. From there they find out how much money is made holding that job, how much education is required, what will the demand of the job hold, and more. The great thing regarding this part of the curriculum is the ability to explore many different job opportunities allowing one to think about their future, but not have to decide on a concrete path until later in life. Students are encouraged to think about the concepts of happiness, time, and money in their exploration of a future career choice.
Challenge: A week in which Morty goes to CADA. The students are left to plan a week of gratitude for staff, students, community, and teachers. This week is busy and students are left with additional tasks, like coloring pages, mentorship assignments, and other professional development. Without Morty’s guidance, the Challenge is an opportunity for students to prove themselves and demonstrate the skills they have acquired throughout the year. The challenge is concluded with a formal presentation that Morty (sometimes a guest) grades harshly and evaluates. If the event does not seem promising or the ducks are not in a row, the whole week has the potential to be canceled.
Class T-Shirts: Before every school year, the class officers create a design for their class t-shirt, and then sell them at Pow-Wow and club rush for $20 each, sometimes with a higher price for senior attire. Usually, they are distributed in September. First, each class typically adds a meaningful quote or message onto their shirt. These shirts serve to unify the student body. During rallies or other events when students wear their class t-shirts, they show unity and bring the classes together.
Club Rush: Our campus is full of amazing clubs that have been started by students over the years. Our campus offers a variety of thoughts, ideas, and more importantly a place to belong with the clubs that are present at RHS. Students can join during our club rush week which kicks off at the start of the year. Each club participates in showcasing its club during a long lunch period where students can ask questions and join, becoming part of any group where they find interest. Our school website illustrates the clubs offered at RHS with constitutions uploaded for knowledge and research about the purpose of each group.”Have Pride, Join the Tribe”
College Spirit Days: Once a month, the counseling office and leadership program work to showcase the support for post-secondary education. Students are encouraged to wear a shirt that represents a college of desire and/or of choice. Education after high school is highly encouraged. Each spirit day, the spirit commissioners walk around passing out candy to participants and keep track of those spirited for the entire year.
Community Service: This category has evolved over the years. The important aspect of this component of the leadership class is that community service happens in a variety of ways. We have done individual hours that are required to be completed quarterly, to work as groups to give back, to our school through beatification or in our community. The core of this activity is to teach students the importance of giving back and helping others. It is ideal to bring in community members who want to be involved with students and teach them through the eyes of another adult the value of service.
Conflict Resolution: In a world of drama and the heavy impact of social media along with technological advancements, students are not prepared to interact with a person who may have a different perspective or have an authority position where a directive is potentially strong and offensive. Conflict resolution allows students to grasp the concepts of opinion differences while providing the tools to be respectful of another person and be professional in getting a job completed.
Core Camp: Every summer, the entire leadership team travels to UC Santa Cruz to bond with each other, learn about their positions, and create new bonds with students from other schools. This trip typically lasts about 3 days and takes place in July. It costs about $555 per person, but the lessons that are taught and the overall experience given to the students make it worthwhile.
Constitution: Every year, leadership reviews and updates their Constitution. An active constitution is required for each club or organization on campus to be recognized and run with approval. As a leadership class, we go through each aspect of the document together and vote on approving it.
Coronation: This committee of leadership students uses creativity to develop the reveal of our King and Queen Homecoming candidates. From sashes to medallions, flowers, and crowns - each candidate nominated to be a part of the Homecoming court feels loved and special during this amazing time of the year. Coronation is in charge of creating the story of each candidate along with the display of our Homecoming King and Queen.
Cover Letters: Students within the leadership class listen to guest speakers that illustrate the professional development of cover letters. Students will research a potential job career choice, write a formal cover letter, and get evaluated by a professional in career interest.
College Reveal: Seniors who have worked very hard to get into a college are all invited to attend college reveal night. This is a night for the senior class to celebrate their university announcements all together. Whether seniors are attending a junior college, four-year university, the military, or trade school, all are welcome to attend and showcase their future endeavors.
Curriculum: As an A-G approved course, Leadership students get the privilege of also taking time to learn for themselves. Leadership has curriculum days where they will discuss many situations and skills needed in the professional world. While we plan events, we also learn about professional development, career fields, and getting ready for the future.
Class Color: As each class enters into high school they are designated the class color of either blue, yellow, green, or orange depending on the year. These colors are used to signify the classes as a whole and are incorporated into many things such as class t-shirts, class decorations, and as an alternative for spirit days.
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Development Day: With the help of the California Association of Student Leaders (CASL), the Ripon High Leadership Program hosts a day where leadership students in the Ripon Unified School District come together and develop their leadership skills. Students are put into small groups and tasked with completing various activities to strengthen trust, communication, and courage. The high schoolers are delegated to be the facilitators of each group and lead the elementary students throughout the day.
Decorating the School: Students work on various spirit events throughout the year. One way to showcase this spirit is by decorating the front of the school. Students must plan, fill out a purchase order, buy supplies, and schedule the time frame to decorate the front of the school on their designated day. Students must work on time management, and conflict resolution skills, and be safe while completing this activity.
Dude be Nice: A week ASB presents kindness and showcases a week full of fun activities. We have many dress-up days and clubs work together to create a fun environment for all students. We have a rally to present our “Dude” who shows positivity, knowledge, caring, a passion for teaching and working with students, and supportive, and approachable. Our dude of the year is gifted with gifts, cards, balloons, candy, and a video of students and staff saying how grateful they are for our dude.
E
Elder Projects: Every year, this assignment gets assigned to elders (seniors or juniors - depending on the Activities Director’s choice) in the program and ASB. It has three phases that include teaching a lesson with homework, a phase on community service, and a phase specifically for seniors for their farewells. This project starts in the spring semester each year.
Elections: Elections occur in the spring semester when students run for elected positions in the leadership program. Students must prepare an application and speech asking for the vote of the student body. ASB (whole school) elections occur and also Class elections occur (class voting based) to elect officers for the future year. Class positions include President, Vice President, Administrative Assistant, and Publicity Officer. The ASB Positions include President, Vice President, Administrative Coordinator and Board Member. The process of secure google form data collection is the same as homecoming.
Encore: Mid-way through the year, Leadership meets with Norm, the founder of Core Camp. The students attend an all-day conference to check in on how they are handling the year. It is also a time for students to reflect on how they have carried out the promises they made in the summer. While learning more about themselves, they also use it as a chance to keep the motivation to give back to their student body.
End of the Year Dance: The students in leadership are asked to complete a challenge each year where they are solely in charge of planning and executing an event without the assistance of the activities director. They have had an entire year of knowledge and practice in planning events. This is their time to shine and showcase what they have learned. They work to plan an end-of-the-year dance that is free to all students. The only requirement is that they are a RHS student.
Evaluations: Students who hold a position in the leadership class go through a quarterly evaluation on their fulfillment of their job title. Various items apply to this evaluation including behavior in the classroom, perspective on events and issues that arise, academic excellence in the class, and professionalism. Students are also evaluated by the ASB President quarterly based on the completion of the job and respectful behavior toward peers and adults. Students meet with the Activities Director and the ASB President in a private meeting to discuss the evaluations and listen to constructive criticism to get better in the job they hold.
Every 15 Minutes: Every two years the administration, activities director, and local police department work with the city and county to present Every 15 Minutes. Students participate and experience the role-play of what would happen if students drank alcohol and got behind the wheel. The simulation of the full event is emotionally draining and very real. Students and staff participate to show what would happen if death occurs due to the idiocy of drinking and driving. A powerful event that is so very important for the student body to experience.
Expectations: Expectations in leadership apply to every position held in the leadership program. Students must enroll in the leadership course and are required to attend class daily. Students must maintain grades in all academic classes to remain a part of leadership as well as being in attendance and following the RHS handbook. Students also must participate in planning, preparing, and attending all ASB and class events as assigned.
F
Farewells: As a part of the Legacy Leader and Elder components of the program, the seniors of the class bid goodbye to the A.D. and their peers. With the selected senior in the center, their peers surround them in a circle on the floor. The A.D. presents the senior with a personalized letter. Although this is often an emotional ordeal, it is never a final goodbye.
Formal ASB Meetings: While primarily meant to serve as a formal recount of the month’s activities, monthly formal meetings also facilitate a group check-in and a method of ensuring accountability. Students are required to submit a formal report detailing the work they’ve completed in their jobs and committees. Select students with notable responsibilities present their review in formal clothing which strictly entails formal footwear.
Freshman Led Dance: Every year, the freshman representatives are responsible for coordinating and planning a dance after Homecoming. They are held accountable for this dance to raise money for their class as well as get the experience of planning their first big event! The freshmen have to fill out multiple forms for this event to run smoothly, including a facility form, a purchase order, a dance procedure form, and a cash box request form. This event tests their ability to work together as a group of representatives with proper communication and organization skills. The theme of this dance changes each year depending on the class and what events are happening. Sometimes it is Disco or Kyoto, it really just depends!
Friday Spirit: Friday spirit days are consistent throughout the whole year. Encouraging school spirit is met with incentives, as winning Spirit Day allocates points for the end-of-the-year class award. Leadership makes sure to create publicity and award those who show spirit with candy to celebrate our school and its colors.
Floats: Each year during homecoming, class officers are responsible for the creativity and building of a homecoming-themed float that will be placed in the high school parade on homecoming day. Students spend a couple of months working on the theme and idea behind their class float based on the overall theme of homecoming each year. They ask permission from community members to use their property to build the float until it makes its way to the high school on parade day. Much time, money, and effort go into making these floats amazing. The floats are shared with the community in the parade and the evening as they are on display for the fans of Friday night football at RHS.
Fundraising: Students within the leadership program must work yearly to raise money to support their budget. While the budget is completed by the AD to forecast what is necessary for the future year, it is up to the students to complete the tasks. Paperwork must be completed in various formats that cover facilities, board policies, donations, preparation of food and auction items, etc. Some fundraisers are quick and easy like homecoming spirit t-shirts, while others like the dinner dance can take six months to plan. Students learn the value of raising money and spending it wisely.
G
Graduation: Each year the senior class officer team works throughout the entire year planning for graduation. These various steps include diplomas, name checks, order items for graduation, name readers, musicians, photography, tickets, board members, administration, parents, and much more. This event must run smoothly as it is a celebration for our students and community together.
Good Citizen Award: The Good Citizen Award is given to students in May each year based on the election of kind students. The activities director must complete tally votes, conducted in advisory, and work with the district office personnel to share the names of students who were voted as a “good guy”. The superintendent comes to the assembly and presents these students with a check/money for their recognition of being a quality individual.
Gratitude Project: The gratitude project is a short, sweet, but truly memorable video created by students to show gratitude to those we love. A group of students are chosen to write a letter to a loved one and then recite it to them over call. In this sentimental video shown to the student body, our campus can learn about gratitude and its striking importance in life.
Grateful Graduate: Each senior is allowed to show gratitude to a teacher or staff member who has greatly influenced them throughout their life. It is a wonderful moment for a senior, as they dress up in their cap and gown and recite words of gratitude to the person they know has had an impact on them.
Gallery of the Arts: Leadership is proud to know that they celebrate the talented artists at their school. Gallery of the Arts is a night where our student’s art projects are hung up for the whole Ripon community to come and see. Along with this, we have poetry recitations and guest speakers to come and celebrate art. It is a wonderful opportunity to recognize the talent at Ripon High.
H
Homecoming: Homecoming is a huge event at RHS. Much of the student body, staff, and community participate in this event. We have a homecoming court, speeches, skits, rallies, a dance, floats, and a parade. It is a time when three months of planning come together to showcase spirit for our school and our football team. The student body each year decides the overall theme while each class takes a sub-theme to work on decorations, floats, and skits. It is a fun time where the spirit is high and participation is grand.
Headshots: Professionalism is greatly valued within the leadership program. To showcase this leadership students have professional photos taken of them either by the Activities Director or Historian. These photos are utilized for many different things such as our websites, resumes, and personal use.
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Indians: Our mascot of Ripon High School is the Indian. Our town was founded and settled with the influence of the Native Americans. Ripon is a town that honors its history and traditions.
Instagram: Follow the activities and announcements of RHS. This page is run by the Activities Director and the Social Media Relations leadership student. Our page is asbofriponhighschool.
Interviews: To be considered for the leadership program, each student is required to attend their mandatory interview. The interview panel can gauge how a candidate presents themselves through these face-to-face interactions. Additionally, leadership students can prepare for job and college interviews through opportunities such as this one.
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Job Descriptions: Each position in the leadership class has a job description. It is the goal to have a basic outline of what is expected of each member and the position they hold in the class. It is also valuable in evaluating the student on their job. Equally important is the fact that students look at the job descriptions to determine a position they would like to apply for in the year to follow.
Journal: Every leadership student is given an identical leadership journal. The journal will have daily activities and responses, a calendar, and a to-do list. All students are required to turn in their completed week every Monday. As students utilize their journals, they become much more organized and prepared to conquer the week.
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King Candidates: The student body each fall votes for their favorite top five male senior students that they would like to represent the school in the Homecoming event. From there the candidates give a speech, create a lip sync, and participate in a parade and coronation within the week working to gain the vote to be the Homecoming King.
Kyoto Exchange Program: A remarkable group of exchange students travel from Kyoto, Japan to Ripon, and the student body at our high school is allowed to host these students. During the exchange, the student body's goal is to create an inclusive environment for the students so that they can learn more about agriculture, American culture, and enjoy their trip.
Kyoto Rally: Students from Kyoto are required to do a presentation in front of the whole school. At this rally, they present about their culture, do a performance, and exchange a plaque with our school. Additionally, we had students from various cultures perform traditional dances to celebrate the culture present in our community.
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Link Crew Leaders: Part of the job of the Activities Director is to organize a group of students on campus who are on the welcome committee at the start of the year for new students and incoming freshmen. These students are juniors and seniors only due to the knowledge, experience, and maturity they possess to help the younger students on campus. Link leaders have a group of students they are responsible for during the year checking in periodically and making sure they are adjusting well to the changes of high school versus elementary school.
Love Ripon: Love our Cities is an organization that works to better cities by bringing the community together with a common goal of making a difference. Each year leadership has partnered with this organization and dedicated time to various community service projects such as beautifying our town’s parks and schools.
Lemonade Stands: An aspect of Winterfest and Homecoming, each class is required to decorate a lemonade stand and hand things out. The best stand is judged for spirit points that will help the winning class win the overall spirited class award.
Lunch Activity: During the week of the Challenge, the class plans games to be played during lunch to promote the EOYD. The games vary year to year but they always try to promote spirit and involvement within the student body. This game is played and all students are invited to participate.
Leaves: During Thanksgiving or Dude Be Nice season, Leadership hangs up leaves with everyone’s names. These leaves serve as a visual reminder of the appreciation we have for the student body and how much gratitude we have for each student. Additionally, with everyone having a leaf, it makes them feel more loved and appreciated.
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March Madness: Each year we celebrate the excitement of March Madness by having a dodgeball tournament during the lunch period. Students create teams and participate in the lunchtime activity working to make it to the championship game and earn the title of best team. Within this week, Friday is a spirit dress-up day representing fitness and activity.
Mock Interviews: this event takes six months to plan. Students begin at the start of the year by picking a career they are interested in pursuing. Within the year they research that career and prepare for a mock interview with an actual professional who will complete this mock interview helping to prepare these students for future, real-life situations. This process gives students an advantage with the knowledge and preparation for the real world and their future career choices.
Military Cards: Towards the holiday season, leadership writes thorough, personalized cards to active members of the military. Each student is required to write five to showcase their appreciation for those who sacrificed so much for them.
Mentorship Program: This program pairs two compatible leadership students, one with experience and one that is newer to the program, to provide guidance and build bonds with other students. They can look to each other for help when confusion arises and can bond through multiple mentorship assignments during the year.
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Neon Dance: this is one of the biggest events that we have in our school about student participation. The neon dance is the first dance of the year. Eligibility, bill list, and detentions are not counted against students. This is our highest-attended dance. It is an event full of excitement, spirit, and fun.
O
Orientation: The link crew leaders of RHS work toward training and developing the skills to welcome the newest class every year to RHS. One way this is done is through the freshmen/new student orientation that occurs the day before school starts. On this day, students participate in icebreakers, group activities, and a school tour that allows them to find their classes. The goal of this activity is to welcome each student along with giving them a sense of safety in the new environment.
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Prom: A favorite dance at RHS for our junior and senior students. The current junior officer team works an entire year to create a beautiful event where students attend Rustic Ranch in Manteca eating dinner with peers and dancing the night away. Students come dressed in formal attire like suits, tuxedos, or dresses.
Parade: Each homecoming season at the end of the week celebrates the hard work and dedication of members of each class who build a float based on their class homecoming theme. A parade is developed and created with various entries. Students from the elementary sites and community members come out to see the parade. It is a great event that many communities are unable to have based on population and location. Ripon holds on to these traditions that bring forth hard work, dedication, and community involvement.
Powder Puff: The Powder Puff game is an event where male football players become the coaches teaching young females various plays and organizing themselves to be ready for flag football during homecoming week. The teams involve each class from freshmen to seniors. Much excitement is also brought by guy cheerleaders who perform sideline chants and even show off a half-time performance.
Pride Tribe: This club is a group of students who wish to be a part of the spirit crew at RHS. We come together at the beginning of the year asking any students if they are interested in being a part of the spirit at every sporting event. We order t-shirts that say “Pride Tribe” and the kids take it from there. They organize and come together to yell and cheer on the sporting teams.
Publicity: Students within the leadership program work to make sure that the student body is aware of the various events, clubs, and activities on campus. Publicity comes in the form of posters, potty presses, flyers, and posts on social media. Remind 101 is used by the AD to keep certain groups informed of due dates and deadlines set for by various members of the high school.
Public Speaking: Public speaking is a component within the curriculum of leadership where students are taught the skills of strong public speaking and then required to give a formal speech to their peers. Practice is important because students will be asked to formally speak in the future. One example of this is giving a speech to the entire school when running for an elected position in the class.
PJ Spirit Day/Spirit Week: Who doesn’t love comfort? In the winter months of school, the weather can be quite cool. So the development of a PJ spirit day or a spirit week of warm clothes and blankets is fun and relaxing before the start of finals. It is a simple dress-up week where rolling out of bed and coming to school can be quick and easy for most.
Procedure Form: As leadership students plan and execute events, they are required to fill out a procedure form that outlines each step of the process. These forms are due to the Activities Director for a grade one week after the date of the event.
Q
Queen Candidates: The student body each fall votes for their favorite top five female senior students that they would like to represent the school in the Homecoming event. From there the candidates give a speech, create a lip sync, and participate in a parade and coronation within the week working to gain the vote to be the Homecoming Queen.
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Rallies & Assemblies: Throughout the year the leadership program works to have a 25-45-minute rally of games, announcements, and activities for all to enjoy. It is a way to share information and encourage spirit for the various events held at RHS.
Resume: Students within the leadership class listen to guest speakers that illustrate the professional development of resumes. Students will research a potential job career choice, write a formal resume, and get evaluated by a professional in career interest.
Remind: Students at RHS can stay up to date with reminders about due dates and events that occur on our campus. The activities director creates “classes” where students can join and get the key information to stay on top of their daily demands and gain opportunities in which the student body can become more involved in events like Homecoming.
Rank & Support: Every class in leadership is given an ASB Member to rely on and ask questions throughout the year. The ASB members serve as support to each class during disagreements, struggles, and when the classes have general questions. The rank and support system helps take the stress out of drama if it occurs. Additionally, the ASB member is responsible for taking attendance of their class at the beginning of each period.
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Student Spotlight: Each month leadership students highlight 5 students for the month. These encompass 1 spirited student, 2 academic students, and 2 athletic students. They receive recognition via announcements and Instagram posts that include a personal biography and picture.
Student Senate: The student senate group consists of members of the student body who are elected/nominated by their peers from their advisory class in the fall semester. The senate members come together each month to evaluate activities, create new events on campus, and share their opinions. From there they take this information back to their advisory class so that the student body is more aware of activities and events held on this campus. Our goal is to promote being an A.C.E. at RHS along with Having Pride in our school and Joining the Tribe.
Student vs Staff Basketball Game: The freshmen class each year works to put together a student versus staff basketball game. This event occurs each spring in April. Various staff members compete with students who have played basketball for the school. It is a fun event cheering on each group in a friendly competition.
School Website: http://asbofriponhighschool.weebly.com
The Activities Director works to develop a website specifically for the activities and events that occur yearly at RHS. It is a complex list of curricula, clubs, events, groups, and more that are offered to the students of Ripon High. The site hopes to provide answers to questions by students, parents, and community members. It will be linked to the school website: http://riponhigh.net.
Shopping Carts: An aspect of our Winterfest event is shopping carts. Each class is required to formally ask a store to borrow a shopping cart and decorate it with their Winterfest theme. These carts are judged for points to determine the Winterfest winner.
Spirit of the Month: Each month, the spirit commissioner team is responsible for nominating one to two students who excel in showing spirit and dressing up. They are responsible for picking a diverse variety of students, asking them a few questions, and making a post to be posted on ASB Instagram to celebrate their spirit.
Speeches: Students in the student body must give speeches (homecoming & elected officer positions) in a formal setting. Students are asked to dress professionally, write a formal speech for approval, and execute this form of public speaking to the student body where applicable. Students gain insight, knowledge, and confidence through this experience.
Spirit Bomb: The spirit commissioners work to highlight a new staff member in each spirit bomb to show both gratitude and appreciation. The spirit bomb is accompanied by a personalized poster with a strong message to represent how valued they are by our community, as well as with balloons and a goodie bag.
Senior Celebration Week: The sophomore class is responsible for putting on a week dedicated to celebrating seniors during the last month of school. The Sophomore class works to organize different spirit days, activities, and other ways to show appreciation. Additionally, the sophomore class makes senior stars that go up with every senior student’s name.
Spirit Counts: To boost school involvement in events, spirit commissioners enter each classroom on spirit days and take count of who has participated. Those who have participated receive a piece of candy as a reward. The total amount of spirit within each class is then totaled and calculated to see who has the most spirit that day. Once the end of the year reaches, the class with the most spirit all year is rewarded with bundt cakes!
Study Buddy Night: To prepare for midterms and final exams, leadership plans study nights for students to have a space where they can work with their friends and teachers. Snacks and hot chocolate are provided to make a comforting environment where students can study and de-stress before the upcoming exam week.
Speeches: Public speaking is a unit of curriculum within the class that teaches students how to hone their public speaking skills and practice giving formal presentations. This presentation is done in the spring semester by every student in the class.
Scrapbook: Every spring semester, the leadership class makes pages dedicated to their positions and the year they had spent with the class. The Historians are responsible for organizing the assignment and creating the physical scrapbook, whether through Canva, Shutterfly, or physically. This project is displayed at the Leadership Banquet.
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Teacher Appreciation: The spirit staff committee along with students work together to show our RHS family that we truly appreciate their time given to the knowledge and curriculum developed every day. No matter the subject matter being taught, each teacher possesses the gift of sharing their experiences and education with their kids. The appreciation of an amazing education at RHS is to be celebrated wholeheartedly. One way this is completed is through our spirit bombs by members of the leadership program. Students make posters, ribbons, and balloons decorating the doors of classrooms of teachers thanking them for their hard work and dedication.
Time Management: One of the various topics covered in the curriculum of the leadership program at RHS, time management proves to be very important. Students who plan and execute events at RHS, balance 7 total classes daily, complete homework, participate in clubs and sports, and more must have the skills of time management to be successful. Other issues addressed in this topic are eating healthy, proper sleeping patterns, and time for oneself.
TED Talks: Ted talks are a focus of lessons taught within the leadership class. The A-G-approved curriculum works to establish various skills like time management, grit, organization, public speaking and so much more. Experts in the various industries offer their perspectives through TED Talks sharing their knowledge with those interested in their perspectives. These talks are paired with reflective assignments, Q&A activities, and debates.
The Tribe Award: A new event that has been created between the counseling office and the Activities Director at RHS. An award where each teacher will nominate a student on our campus for their inspiration and goodwill upon others. A cornerstone to the development of relationships between teachers and their students, it is a time to honor those kids who exercise such positivity. An awards night will be created where teachers will share their stories of their nominated students and the impact they have made. A medallion will be awarded which the student can wear across the stage when it comes time for them to graduate.
T-Shirt Sales: Every year, to promote school spirit, the class officers and freshman reps work together to create a unique class t-shirt that represents their class. The shirts are sold before school, during Club Rush, and throughout the school year. These shirts can vary in design but generally reflect the unique class of students who wear them! When in rallies and at events, classes look more united. These sales also serve as a good fundraiser for the class who is selling them.
Tree Decorating: The holiday Christmas tree decorations are just one of the few jolly events Ripon High holds on campus. During the winter night rally, students and staff get together for some games, caroling, and a tree decorating contest. It’s a loving way to spread holiday cheer and light up the night at Ripon High.
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Ugly sweater competition: Every year at our Christmas night rally there is a competition among the students for the ugliest sweater. There is always a prize funded by leadership given out to the winner of the contest as well as hot cocoa and a Christmas tree light show during Winterfest.
Unity: With every project, event, and discussion, members of this program become closer not only with each other but with a common goal or purpose. Whether this is within class officers, commissioner teams, ASB, or the overall class altogether, leadership develops the skills of understanding one another. It teaches how to view other perspectives with an open mind and to accept each other. This also develops an understanding between leaders, further creating a sense of unity.
Understanding: Within everything that we do, leadership teaches us not only to understand other people’s perspectives but also what leadership is and what our purpose is. As good leaders, we understand our role in society to give, ask, give, and put our community first. This comes in many different forms, through community service, book study, thank you cards, Valentine's hearts, and many other acts of service.
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Video Extravaganza: Each year the technology commissioners in the course work to take account of the activities and events that happen on our campus. From there they organize a video to display at the end of the year that shows the memories created. Another aspect of the video is taking the senior portraits and comparing them to the freshman-year picture showing the growth of each student in high school. There are moments of cheers, laughter, and applause throughout the entire video. It is a lot of fun to look back on how fast a year can go by and reflect on the memories shared.
Valentine’s Day Hearts: Every year before Valentine’s Day, the students of Leadership are each assigned around 25 students to write hearts for. The class uses paper cut-out hearts and writes nice and inspiring messages on them for the students to enjoy. Before school on Valentine’s Day, the class puts up all of the hearts all over the school, as a way for the students to feel loved and included at Ripon High. Students also have a fun time searching for their name and displaying it to their peers. We have done this activity on the quad windows, E building windows, and the MUB. This activity was started years ago and is something that the class will continue to do for years to come.
Volunteer Work: Throughout the school year, the leadership class looks to serve the community in which we represent. We participate in different activities such as Love Ripon and writing military cards. Additionally, every year, the ASB VP and their team of VPs organize a community service project for the fall semester. In the past we have done a blanket drive, “grateful for our origins”, and letters to members of Bethany Home. These events help students connect with their community and show gratitude for people beyond Ripon High School.
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Welcome Day: 8th grade welcome day is an event where we bring all of the 8th-grade students from the district to the high school to showcase the various programs that we have to offer the students. It is a time to bring all five schools together as one showing them that they will no longer be five separate schools, but rather one unit representing an entire class as an Indian. They attend sessions that include FFA, JROTC, counseling, and activities. The link leaders help assist in bringing them where they need to go on campus, having a BBQ lunch with them, and giving them a live campus tour where they can go into actual classrooms.
Weekly Accomplishments: Each week leadership students complete a weekly accomplishment sheet where they state their successes within their jobs, assistance of clubs/sports, expansion of their job, helpfulness towards a teacher, activity on social media, and more. This worksheet allows students to hold themselves accountable for the things they are (or are not) doing and gives reference to look back on the accomplishments that have been made throughout the year.
Weebly Websites: To keep our school informed about school information about leadership members, ASB has a website that is updated frequently. It has information about positions and how they are played out. The website also has details about every member of leadership, agendas, and events for the upcoming year. Plus, every student in leadership is required to set up their websites for their portfolio, professional contact, ASB minutes, and more. These websites are excellent resources for professionals and future resumes.
Warm and Fuzzy Spirit Week: A week of wearing warm, fuzzy, and comfy clothes in the winter run by the leadership class. Students are allowed to wear pajamas, fuzzy socks, as well as slippers. This week typically takes place before finals!
Winter Final Project: For the first-semester Leadership final, the students do an act of service. This can be buying and donating a gift from the donation tree, or doing another act of service. A reflection piece is written on the project.
Winter Formal: Winter Formal is a semi-formal dance for all students at RHS. Students attend a dance held in our multi-purpose room in the winter months of the school year. The sophomore class officer team is in charge of this event yearly.
Winterfest: Winterfest is a week-long spirit event similar to Homecoming. Classes compete in different class contests and promote spirit for Basketball. Classes decorate shopping carts, posters, and lemonade stands to show off their theme and earn spirit points. The court is announced at a rally with the whole school. The two spirit champions are announced at the Varsity Basketball Game (Boys and girls alternate years). This is the biggest Winter Spirit Week and it is a great way to welcome people back to school, for it takes place after we get back from winter break.
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Xtravagent events/celebrations (College Reveal Night): The Activities Director and Counseling office have worked to create a new event for the graduating class each year. A night of celebration that includes a DJ, music, photography, and snacks, seniors get an opportunity to walk down a runway and “reveal” the college they plan to attend in their post-secondary education. It is an event for all to enjoy including peers, family, and community members.
Leadership gift X-change: Every year our class has a Secret Santa-type gift exchange in which we put the names of the class into a bowl and pick them out. The students shop for each other and exchange gifts during the Winter Final period.
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Yearbook Rally: In December, the Yearbook puts on a rally to help promote the yearbook and its sales. In this rally, they show a video of the events that happen around the school and everything that has happened throughout the year so far. They also announce the senior superlatives that are voted on by the senior class. Leadership assists in any way to help the Yearbook program execute the event.
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Zealous Spirit (Spirit Counts/Spirit Days): Throughout the entire year the leadership class works to create fun spirit days (dress-up days) for the students at RHS. The spirit commissioners walk around taking counts on these specific spirit days passing out candy. The spirit commissioners work to collect the data throughout the year and at the end of the year, the most spirited class receives a treat/food/candy/etc for the effort and true Indian spirit they possess.
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Attendance: Coming to class daily is extremely important for the success of each activity on our campus. We rarely work independently. Therefore, we work together and depend on one another to accomplish various tasks to bring events full circle. We also reach out to other clubs and sports teams on campus to make activities successful and involve many.
Announcements: Seniors and ASB Executive members spend every day sharing announcements with the school. A variety of items are discussed within the announcements: highlights of sporting events, spirit dress-up days, club meetings, future sporting events, award winners, etc. Communication, a key standard in the leadership program and recognized through the California Association of Directors of Activities, is very important so that students at RHS know about opportunities that they can enjoy or further their education.
ASB Banquet: At the end of each academic year, ASB Plans a banquet for the Leadership Class to participate in. This event recognizes class advisors, the most spirited staff members, and members of the leadership class for their hard work and character. Many awards are given out at this event. The theme of the banquet is based on the personality of the class. Typically, this event takes place in the MUB and happens in May. A small gift is normally given to students, sometimes lanyards or different items that reflect the unique personality of each leadership class.
A-G College Prep Approval: It is the goal of the leadership program to submit an application to the UC College Level for formal approval of the “G” requirement to represent a college prep course based on the curriculum and procedures. Submission occurred in February 2016. Formal approval was given on March 28th, 2016.
Almond Blossom Parking Lot: The leadership program has volunteered to work parking lot shifts at Almond Blossom to raise money for our program. It is required to do at least one shift, and preferred to have an adult/parent volunteer as well! Peers can sign up and choose their time frames for their shifts on a Google Spreadsheet. Also, the leadership program has to send the Activities Director pictures of proof that they completed their shift as expected.
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Board Meetings: As active members in our community, students in leadership serve their civic duty by attending one board meeting per year. Students are required to attend one board meeting in professional clothing. They are also required to do a write-up of what happened in the meeting as well as turn in detailed notes of what happened while they went to the meeting. This is a great way for students to practice professionalism and learn more about what happens within the school board.
Book Study: Leaders benefit from reading the works of others and applying them to their own lives. For the past few years, Leadership students have been reading different novels that include matters like relationships, professionalism, communication, problem-solving, and other leadership-related topics. Book studies often ignite a fierce conversation about life or the topic at hand. A reflection is then completed and published on the students’ websites. Book studies have been done on “Don’t Sweat the Small Stuff,” and “Dare to Lead”.
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Career Research: Part of the curriculum in the course of leadership includes research on career interests. Each year students research three potential job options that they find interesting. From there they find out how much money is made holding that job, how much education is required, what will the demand of the job hold, and more. The great thing regarding this part of the curriculum is the ability to explore many different job opportunities allowing one to think about their future, but not have to decide on a concrete path until later in life. Students are encouraged to think about the concepts of happiness, time, and money in their exploration of a future career choice.
Challenge: A week in which Morty goes to CADA. The students are left to plan a week of gratitude for staff, students, community, and teachers. This week is busy and students are left with additional tasks, like coloring pages, mentorship assignments, and other professional development. Without Morty’s guidance, the Challenge is an opportunity for students to prove themselves and demonstrate the skills they have acquired throughout the year. The challenge is concluded with a formal presentation that Morty (sometimes a guest) grades harshly and evaluates. If the event does not seem promising or the ducks are not in a row, the whole week has the potential to be canceled.
Class T-Shirts: Before every school year, the class officers create a design for their class t-shirt, and then sell them at Pow-Wow and club rush for $20 each, sometimes with a higher price for senior attire. Usually, they are distributed in September. First, each class typically adds a meaningful quote or message onto their shirt. These shirts serve to unify the student body. During rallies or other events when students wear their class t-shirts, they show unity and bring the classes together.
Club Rush: Our campus is full of amazing clubs that have been started by students over the years. Our campus offers a variety of thoughts, ideas, and more importantly a place to belong with the clubs that are present at RHS. Students can join during our club rush week which kicks off at the start of the year. Each club participates in showcasing its club during a long lunch period where students can ask questions and join, becoming part of any group where they find interest. Our school website illustrates the clubs offered at RHS with constitutions uploaded for knowledge and research about the purpose of each group.”Have Pride, Join the Tribe”
College Spirit Days: Once a month, the counseling office and leadership program work to showcase the support for post-secondary education. Students are encouraged to wear a shirt that represents a college of desire and/or of choice. Education after high school is highly encouraged. Each spirit day, the spirit commissioners walk around passing out candy to participants and keep track of those spirited for the entire year.
Community Service: This category has evolved over the years. The important aspect of this component of the leadership class is that community service happens in a variety of ways. We have done individual hours that are required to be completed quarterly, to work as groups to give back, to our school through beatification or in our community. The core of this activity is to teach students the importance of giving back and helping others. It is ideal to bring in community members who want to be involved with students and teach them through the eyes of another adult the value of service.
Conflict Resolution: In a world of drama and the heavy impact of social media along with technological advancements, students are not prepared to interact with a person who may have a different perspective or have an authority position where a directive is potentially strong and offensive. Conflict resolution allows students to grasp the concepts of opinion differences while providing the tools to be respectful of another person and be professional in getting a job completed.
Core Camp: Every summer, the entire leadership team travels to UC Santa Cruz to bond with each other, learn about their positions, and create new bonds with students from other schools. This trip typically lasts about 3 days and takes place in July. It costs about $555 per person, but the lessons that are taught and the overall experience given to the students make it worthwhile.
Constitution: Every year, leadership reviews and updates their Constitution. An active constitution is required for each club or organization on campus to be recognized and run with approval. As a leadership class, we go through each aspect of the document together and vote on approving it.
Coronation: This committee of leadership students uses creativity to develop the reveal of our King and Queen Homecoming candidates. From sashes to medallions, flowers, and crowns - each candidate nominated to be a part of the Homecoming court feels loved and special during this amazing time of the year. Coronation is in charge of creating the story of each candidate along with the display of our Homecoming King and Queen.
Cover Letters: Students within the leadership class listen to guest speakers that illustrate the professional development of cover letters. Students will research a potential job career choice, write a formal cover letter, and get evaluated by a professional in career interest.
College Reveal: Seniors who have worked very hard to get into a college are all invited to attend college reveal night. This is a night for the senior class to celebrate their university announcements all together. Whether seniors are attending a junior college, four-year university, the military, or trade school, all are welcome to attend and showcase their future endeavors.
Curriculum: As an A-G approved course, Leadership students get the privilege of also taking time to learn for themselves. Leadership has curriculum days where they will discuss many situations and skills needed in the professional world. While we plan events, we also learn about professional development, career fields, and getting ready for the future.
Class Color: As each class enters into high school they are designated the class color of either blue, yellow, green, or orange depending on the year. These colors are used to signify the classes as a whole and are incorporated into many things such as class t-shirts, class decorations, and as an alternative for spirit days.
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Development Day: With the help of the California Association of Student Leaders (CASL), the Ripon High Leadership Program hosts a day where leadership students in the Ripon Unified School District come together and develop their leadership skills. Students are put into small groups and tasked with completing various activities to strengthen trust, communication, and courage. The high schoolers are delegated to be the facilitators of each group and lead the elementary students throughout the day.
Decorating the School: Students work on various spirit events throughout the year. One way to showcase this spirit is by decorating the front of the school. Students must plan, fill out a purchase order, buy supplies, and schedule the time frame to decorate the front of the school on their designated day. Students must work on time management, and conflict resolution skills, and be safe while completing this activity.
Dude be Nice: A week ASB presents kindness and showcases a week full of fun activities. We have many dress-up days and clubs work together to create a fun environment for all students. We have a rally to present our “Dude” who shows positivity, knowledge, caring, a passion for teaching and working with students, and supportive, and approachable. Our dude of the year is gifted with gifts, cards, balloons, candy, and a video of students and staff saying how grateful they are for our dude.
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Elder Projects: Every year, this assignment gets assigned to elders (seniors or juniors - depending on the Activities Director’s choice) in the program and ASB. It has three phases that include teaching a lesson with homework, a phase on community service, and a phase specifically for seniors for their farewells. This project starts in the spring semester each year.
Elections: Elections occur in the spring semester when students run for elected positions in the leadership program. Students must prepare an application and speech asking for the vote of the student body. ASB (whole school) elections occur and also Class elections occur (class voting based) to elect officers for the future year. Class positions include President, Vice President, Administrative Assistant, and Publicity Officer. The ASB Positions include President, Vice President, Administrative Coordinator and Board Member. The process of secure google form data collection is the same as homecoming.
Encore: Mid-way through the year, Leadership meets with Norm, the founder of Core Camp. The students attend an all-day conference to check in on how they are handling the year. It is also a time for students to reflect on how they have carried out the promises they made in the summer. While learning more about themselves, they also use it as a chance to keep the motivation to give back to their student body.
End of the Year Dance: The students in leadership are asked to complete a challenge each year where they are solely in charge of planning and executing an event without the assistance of the activities director. They have had an entire year of knowledge and practice in planning events. This is their time to shine and showcase what they have learned. They work to plan an end-of-the-year dance that is free to all students. The only requirement is that they are a RHS student.
Evaluations: Students who hold a position in the leadership class go through a quarterly evaluation on their fulfillment of their job title. Various items apply to this evaluation including behavior in the classroom, perspective on events and issues that arise, academic excellence in the class, and professionalism. Students are also evaluated by the ASB President quarterly based on the completion of the job and respectful behavior toward peers and adults. Students meet with the Activities Director and the ASB President in a private meeting to discuss the evaluations and listen to constructive criticism to get better in the job they hold.
Every 15 Minutes: Every two years the administration, activities director, and local police department work with the city and county to present Every 15 Minutes. Students participate and experience the role-play of what would happen if students drank alcohol and got behind the wheel. The simulation of the full event is emotionally draining and very real. Students and staff participate to show what would happen if death occurs due to the idiocy of drinking and driving. A powerful event that is so very important for the student body to experience.
Expectations: Expectations in leadership apply to every position held in the leadership program. Students must enroll in the leadership course and are required to attend class daily. Students must maintain grades in all academic classes to remain a part of leadership as well as being in attendance and following the RHS handbook. Students also must participate in planning, preparing, and attending all ASB and class events as assigned.
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Farewells: As a part of the Legacy Leader and Elder components of the program, the seniors of the class bid goodbye to the A.D. and their peers. With the selected senior in the center, their peers surround them in a circle on the floor. The A.D. presents the senior with a personalized letter. Although this is often an emotional ordeal, it is never a final goodbye.
Formal ASB Meetings: While primarily meant to serve as a formal recount of the month’s activities, monthly formal meetings also facilitate a group check-in and a method of ensuring accountability. Students are required to submit a formal report detailing the work they’ve completed in their jobs and committees. Select students with notable responsibilities present their review in formal clothing which strictly entails formal footwear.
Freshman Led Dance: Every year, the freshman representatives are responsible for coordinating and planning a dance after Homecoming. They are held accountable for this dance to raise money for their class as well as get the experience of planning their first big event! The freshmen have to fill out multiple forms for this event to run smoothly, including a facility form, a purchase order, a dance procedure form, and a cash box request form. This event tests their ability to work together as a group of representatives with proper communication and organization skills. The theme of this dance changes each year depending on the class and what events are happening. Sometimes it is Disco or Kyoto, it really just depends!
Friday Spirit: Friday spirit days are consistent throughout the whole year. Encouraging school spirit is met with incentives, as winning Spirit Day allocates points for the end-of-the-year class award. Leadership makes sure to create publicity and award those who show spirit with candy to celebrate our school and its colors.
Floats: Each year during homecoming, class officers are responsible for the creativity and building of a homecoming-themed float that will be placed in the high school parade on homecoming day. Students spend a couple of months working on the theme and idea behind their class float based on the overall theme of homecoming each year. They ask permission from community members to use their property to build the float until it makes its way to the high school on parade day. Much time, money, and effort go into making these floats amazing. The floats are shared with the community in the parade and the evening as they are on display for the fans of Friday night football at RHS.
Fundraising: Students within the leadership program must work yearly to raise money to support their budget. While the budget is completed by the AD to forecast what is necessary for the future year, it is up to the students to complete the tasks. Paperwork must be completed in various formats that cover facilities, board policies, donations, preparation of food and auction items, etc. Some fundraisers are quick and easy like homecoming spirit t-shirts, while others like the dinner dance can take six months to plan. Students learn the value of raising money and spending it wisely.
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Graduation: Each year the senior class officer team works throughout the entire year planning for graduation. These various steps include diplomas, name checks, order items for graduation, name readers, musicians, photography, tickets, board members, administration, parents, and much more. This event must run smoothly as it is a celebration for our students and community together.
Good Citizen Award: The Good Citizen Award is given to students in May each year based on the election of kind students. The activities director must complete tally votes, conducted in advisory, and work with the district office personnel to share the names of students who were voted as a “good guy”. The superintendent comes to the assembly and presents these students with a check/money for their recognition of being a quality individual.
Gratitude Project: The gratitude project is a short, sweet, but truly memorable video created by students to show gratitude to those we love. A group of students are chosen to write a letter to a loved one and then recite it to them over call. In this sentimental video shown to the student body, our campus can learn about gratitude and its striking importance in life.
Grateful Graduate: Each senior is allowed to show gratitude to a teacher or staff member who has greatly influenced them throughout their life. It is a wonderful moment for a senior, as they dress up in their cap and gown and recite words of gratitude to the person they know has had an impact on them.
Gallery of the Arts: Leadership is proud to know that they celebrate the talented artists at their school. Gallery of the Arts is a night where our student’s art projects are hung up for the whole Ripon community to come and see. Along with this, we have poetry recitations and guest speakers to come and celebrate art. It is a wonderful opportunity to recognize the talent at Ripon High.
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Homecoming: Homecoming is a huge event at RHS. Much of the student body, staff, and community participate in this event. We have a homecoming court, speeches, skits, rallies, a dance, floats, and a parade. It is a time when three months of planning come together to showcase spirit for our school and our football team. The student body each year decides the overall theme while each class takes a sub-theme to work on decorations, floats, and skits. It is a fun time where the spirit is high and participation is grand.
Headshots: Professionalism is greatly valued within the leadership program. To showcase this leadership students have professional photos taken of them either by the Activities Director or Historian. These photos are utilized for many different things such as our websites, resumes, and personal use.
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Indians: Our mascot of Ripon High School is the Indian. Our town was founded and settled with the influence of the Native Americans. Ripon is a town that honors its history and traditions.
Instagram: Follow the activities and announcements of RHS. This page is run by the Activities Director and the Social Media Relations leadership student. Our page is asbofriponhighschool.
Interviews: To be considered for the leadership program, each student is required to attend their mandatory interview. The interview panel can gauge how a candidate presents themselves through these face-to-face interactions. Additionally, leadership students can prepare for job and college interviews through opportunities such as this one.
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Job Descriptions: Each position in the leadership class has a job description. It is the goal to have a basic outline of what is expected of each member and the position they hold in the class. It is also valuable in evaluating the student on their job. Equally important is the fact that students look at the job descriptions to determine a position they would like to apply for in the year to follow.
Journal: Every leadership student is given an identical leadership journal. The journal will have daily activities and responses, a calendar, and a to-do list. All students are required to turn in their completed week every Monday. As students utilize their journals, they become much more organized and prepared to conquer the week.
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King Candidates: The student body each fall votes for their favorite top five male senior students that they would like to represent the school in the Homecoming event. From there the candidates give a speech, create a lip sync, and participate in a parade and coronation within the week working to gain the vote to be the Homecoming King.
Kyoto Exchange Program: A remarkable group of exchange students travel from Kyoto, Japan to Ripon, and the student body at our high school is allowed to host these students. During the exchange, the student body's goal is to create an inclusive environment for the students so that they can learn more about agriculture, American culture, and enjoy their trip.
Kyoto Rally: Students from Kyoto are required to do a presentation in front of the whole school. At this rally, they present about their culture, do a performance, and exchange a plaque with our school. Additionally, we had students from various cultures perform traditional dances to celebrate the culture present in our community.
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Link Crew Leaders: Part of the job of the Activities Director is to organize a group of students on campus who are on the welcome committee at the start of the year for new students and incoming freshmen. These students are juniors and seniors only due to the knowledge, experience, and maturity they possess to help the younger students on campus. Link leaders have a group of students they are responsible for during the year checking in periodically and making sure they are adjusting well to the changes of high school versus elementary school.
Love Ripon: Love our Cities is an organization that works to better cities by bringing the community together with a common goal of making a difference. Each year leadership has partnered with this organization and dedicated time to various community service projects such as beautifying our town’s parks and schools.
Lemonade Stands: An aspect of Winterfest and Homecoming, each class is required to decorate a lemonade stand and hand things out. The best stand is judged for spirit points that will help the winning class win the overall spirited class award.
Lunch Activity: During the week of the Challenge, the class plans games to be played during lunch to promote the EOYD. The games vary year to year but they always try to promote spirit and involvement within the student body. This game is played and all students are invited to participate.
Leaves: During Thanksgiving or Dude Be Nice season, Leadership hangs up leaves with everyone’s names. These leaves serve as a visual reminder of the appreciation we have for the student body and how much gratitude we have for each student. Additionally, with everyone having a leaf, it makes them feel more loved and appreciated.
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March Madness: Each year we celebrate the excitement of March Madness by having a dodgeball tournament during the lunch period. Students create teams and participate in the lunchtime activity working to make it to the championship game and earn the title of best team. Within this week, Friday is a spirit dress-up day representing fitness and activity.
Mock Interviews: this event takes six months to plan. Students begin at the start of the year by picking a career they are interested in pursuing. Within the year they research that career and prepare for a mock interview with an actual professional who will complete this mock interview helping to prepare these students for future, real-life situations. This process gives students an advantage with the knowledge and preparation for the real world and their future career choices.
Military Cards: Towards the holiday season, leadership writes thorough, personalized cards to active members of the military. Each student is required to write five to showcase their appreciation for those who sacrificed so much for them.
Mentorship Program: This program pairs two compatible leadership students, one with experience and one that is newer to the program, to provide guidance and build bonds with other students. They can look to each other for help when confusion arises and can bond through multiple mentorship assignments during the year.
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Neon Dance: this is one of the biggest events that we have in our school about student participation. The neon dance is the first dance of the year. Eligibility, bill list, and detentions are not counted against students. This is our highest-attended dance. It is an event full of excitement, spirit, and fun.
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Orientation: The link crew leaders of RHS work toward training and developing the skills to welcome the newest class every year to RHS. One way this is done is through the freshmen/new student orientation that occurs the day before school starts. On this day, students participate in icebreakers, group activities, and a school tour that allows them to find their classes. The goal of this activity is to welcome each student along with giving them a sense of safety in the new environment.
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Prom: A favorite dance at RHS for our junior and senior students. The current junior officer team works an entire year to create a beautiful event where students attend Rustic Ranch in Manteca eating dinner with peers and dancing the night away. Students come dressed in formal attire like suits, tuxedos, or dresses.
Parade: Each homecoming season at the end of the week celebrates the hard work and dedication of members of each class who build a float based on their class homecoming theme. A parade is developed and created with various entries. Students from the elementary sites and community members come out to see the parade. It is a great event that many communities are unable to have based on population and location. Ripon holds on to these traditions that bring forth hard work, dedication, and community involvement.
Powder Puff: The Powder Puff game is an event where male football players become the coaches teaching young females various plays and organizing themselves to be ready for flag football during homecoming week. The teams involve each class from freshmen to seniors. Much excitement is also brought by guy cheerleaders who perform sideline chants and even show off a half-time performance.
Pride Tribe: This club is a group of students who wish to be a part of the spirit crew at RHS. We come together at the beginning of the year asking any students if they are interested in being a part of the spirit at every sporting event. We order t-shirts that say “Pride Tribe” and the kids take it from there. They organize and come together to yell and cheer on the sporting teams.
Publicity: Students within the leadership program work to make sure that the student body is aware of the various events, clubs, and activities on campus. Publicity comes in the form of posters, potty presses, flyers, and posts on social media. Remind 101 is used by the AD to keep certain groups informed of due dates and deadlines set for by various members of the high school.
Public Speaking: Public speaking is a component within the curriculum of leadership where students are taught the skills of strong public speaking and then required to give a formal speech to their peers. Practice is important because students will be asked to formally speak in the future. One example of this is giving a speech to the entire school when running for an elected position in the class.
PJ Spirit Day/Spirit Week: Who doesn’t love comfort? In the winter months of school, the weather can be quite cool. So the development of a PJ spirit day or a spirit week of warm clothes and blankets is fun and relaxing before the start of finals. It is a simple dress-up week where rolling out of bed and coming to school can be quick and easy for most.
Procedure Form: As leadership students plan and execute events, they are required to fill out a procedure form that outlines each step of the process. These forms are due to the Activities Director for a grade one week after the date of the event.
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Queen Candidates: The student body each fall votes for their favorite top five female senior students that they would like to represent the school in the Homecoming event. From there the candidates give a speech, create a lip sync, and participate in a parade and coronation within the week working to gain the vote to be the Homecoming Queen.
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Rallies & Assemblies: Throughout the year the leadership program works to have a 25-45-minute rally of games, announcements, and activities for all to enjoy. It is a way to share information and encourage spirit for the various events held at RHS.
Resume: Students within the leadership class listen to guest speakers that illustrate the professional development of resumes. Students will research a potential job career choice, write a formal resume, and get evaluated by a professional in career interest.
Remind: Students at RHS can stay up to date with reminders about due dates and events that occur on our campus. The activities director creates “classes” where students can join and get the key information to stay on top of their daily demands and gain opportunities in which the student body can become more involved in events like Homecoming.
Rank & Support: Every class in leadership is given an ASB Member to rely on and ask questions throughout the year. The ASB members serve as support to each class during disagreements, struggles, and when the classes have general questions. The rank and support system helps take the stress out of drama if it occurs. Additionally, the ASB member is responsible for taking attendance of their class at the beginning of each period.
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Student Spotlight: Each month leadership students highlight 5 students for the month. These encompass 1 spirited student, 2 academic students, and 2 athletic students. They receive recognition via announcements and Instagram posts that include a personal biography and picture.
Student Senate: The student senate group consists of members of the student body who are elected/nominated by their peers from their advisory class in the fall semester. The senate members come together each month to evaluate activities, create new events on campus, and share their opinions. From there they take this information back to their advisory class so that the student body is more aware of activities and events held on this campus. Our goal is to promote being an A.C.E. at RHS along with Having Pride in our school and Joining the Tribe.
Student vs Staff Basketball Game: The freshmen class each year works to put together a student versus staff basketball game. This event occurs each spring in April. Various staff members compete with students who have played basketball for the school. It is a fun event cheering on each group in a friendly competition.
School Website: http://asbofriponhighschool.weebly.com
The Activities Director works to develop a website specifically for the activities and events that occur yearly at RHS. It is a complex list of curricula, clubs, events, groups, and more that are offered to the students of Ripon High. The site hopes to provide answers to questions by students, parents, and community members. It will be linked to the school website: http://riponhigh.net.
Shopping Carts: An aspect of our Winterfest event is shopping carts. Each class is required to formally ask a store to borrow a shopping cart and decorate it with their Winterfest theme. These carts are judged for points to determine the Winterfest winner.
Spirit of the Month: Each month, the spirit commissioner team is responsible for nominating one to two students who excel in showing spirit and dressing up. They are responsible for picking a diverse variety of students, asking them a few questions, and making a post to be posted on ASB Instagram to celebrate their spirit.
Speeches: Students in the student body must give speeches (homecoming & elected officer positions) in a formal setting. Students are asked to dress professionally, write a formal speech for approval, and execute this form of public speaking to the student body where applicable. Students gain insight, knowledge, and confidence through this experience.
Spirit Bomb: The spirit commissioners work to highlight a new staff member in each spirit bomb to show both gratitude and appreciation. The spirit bomb is accompanied by a personalized poster with a strong message to represent how valued they are by our community, as well as with balloons and a goodie bag.
Senior Celebration Week: The sophomore class is responsible for putting on a week dedicated to celebrating seniors during the last month of school. The Sophomore class works to organize different spirit days, activities, and other ways to show appreciation. Additionally, the sophomore class makes senior stars that go up with every senior student’s name.
Spirit Counts: To boost school involvement in events, spirit commissioners enter each classroom on spirit days and take count of who has participated. Those who have participated receive a piece of candy as a reward. The total amount of spirit within each class is then totaled and calculated to see who has the most spirit that day. Once the end of the year reaches, the class with the most spirit all year is rewarded with bundt cakes!
Study Buddy Night: To prepare for midterms and final exams, leadership plans study nights for students to have a space where they can work with their friends and teachers. Snacks and hot chocolate are provided to make a comforting environment where students can study and de-stress before the upcoming exam week.
Speeches: Public speaking is a unit of curriculum within the class that teaches students how to hone their public speaking skills and practice giving formal presentations. This presentation is done in the spring semester by every student in the class.
Scrapbook: Every spring semester, the leadership class makes pages dedicated to their positions and the year they had spent with the class. The Historians are responsible for organizing the assignment and creating the physical scrapbook, whether through Canva, Shutterfly, or physically. This project is displayed at the Leadership Banquet.
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Teacher Appreciation: The spirit staff committee along with students work together to show our RHS family that we truly appreciate their time given to the knowledge and curriculum developed every day. No matter the subject matter being taught, each teacher possesses the gift of sharing their experiences and education with their kids. The appreciation of an amazing education at RHS is to be celebrated wholeheartedly. One way this is completed is through our spirit bombs by members of the leadership program. Students make posters, ribbons, and balloons decorating the doors of classrooms of teachers thanking them for their hard work and dedication.
Time Management: One of the various topics covered in the curriculum of the leadership program at RHS, time management proves to be very important. Students who plan and execute events at RHS, balance 7 total classes daily, complete homework, participate in clubs and sports, and more must have the skills of time management to be successful. Other issues addressed in this topic are eating healthy, proper sleeping patterns, and time for oneself.
TED Talks: Ted talks are a focus of lessons taught within the leadership class. The A-G-approved curriculum works to establish various skills like time management, grit, organization, public speaking and so much more. Experts in the various industries offer their perspectives through TED Talks sharing their knowledge with those interested in their perspectives. These talks are paired with reflective assignments, Q&A activities, and debates.
The Tribe Award: A new event that has been created between the counseling office and the Activities Director at RHS. An award where each teacher will nominate a student on our campus for their inspiration and goodwill upon others. A cornerstone to the development of relationships between teachers and their students, it is a time to honor those kids who exercise such positivity. An awards night will be created where teachers will share their stories of their nominated students and the impact they have made. A medallion will be awarded which the student can wear across the stage when it comes time for them to graduate.
T-Shirt Sales: Every year, to promote school spirit, the class officers and freshman reps work together to create a unique class t-shirt that represents their class. The shirts are sold before school, during Club Rush, and throughout the school year. These shirts can vary in design but generally reflect the unique class of students who wear them! When in rallies and at events, classes look more united. These sales also serve as a good fundraiser for the class who is selling them.
Tree Decorating: The holiday Christmas tree decorations are just one of the few jolly events Ripon High holds on campus. During the winter night rally, students and staff get together for some games, caroling, and a tree decorating contest. It’s a loving way to spread holiday cheer and light up the night at Ripon High.
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Ugly sweater competition: Every year at our Christmas night rally there is a competition among the students for the ugliest sweater. There is always a prize funded by leadership given out to the winner of the contest as well as hot cocoa and a Christmas tree light show during Winterfest.
Unity: With every project, event, and discussion, members of this program become closer not only with each other but with a common goal or purpose. Whether this is within class officers, commissioner teams, ASB, or the overall class altogether, leadership develops the skills of understanding one another. It teaches how to view other perspectives with an open mind and to accept each other. This also develops an understanding between leaders, further creating a sense of unity.
Understanding: Within everything that we do, leadership teaches us not only to understand other people’s perspectives but also what leadership is and what our purpose is. As good leaders, we understand our role in society to give, ask, give, and put our community first. This comes in many different forms, through community service, book study, thank you cards, Valentine's hearts, and many other acts of service.
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Video Extravaganza: Each year the technology commissioners in the course work to take account of the activities and events that happen on our campus. From there they organize a video to display at the end of the year that shows the memories created. Another aspect of the video is taking the senior portraits and comparing them to the freshman-year picture showing the growth of each student in high school. There are moments of cheers, laughter, and applause throughout the entire video. It is a lot of fun to look back on how fast a year can go by and reflect on the memories shared.
Valentine’s Day Hearts: Every year before Valentine’s Day, the students of Leadership are each assigned around 25 students to write hearts for. The class uses paper cut-out hearts and writes nice and inspiring messages on them for the students to enjoy. Before school on Valentine’s Day, the class puts up all of the hearts all over the school, as a way for the students to feel loved and included at Ripon High. Students also have a fun time searching for their name and displaying it to their peers. We have done this activity on the quad windows, E building windows, and the MUB. This activity was started years ago and is something that the class will continue to do for years to come.
Volunteer Work: Throughout the school year, the leadership class looks to serve the community in which we represent. We participate in different activities such as Love Ripon and writing military cards. Additionally, every year, the ASB VP and their team of VPs organize a community service project for the fall semester. In the past we have done a blanket drive, “grateful for our origins”, and letters to members of Bethany Home. These events help students connect with their community and show gratitude for people beyond Ripon High School.
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Welcome Day: 8th grade welcome day is an event where we bring all of the 8th-grade students from the district to the high school to showcase the various programs that we have to offer the students. It is a time to bring all five schools together as one showing them that they will no longer be five separate schools, but rather one unit representing an entire class as an Indian. They attend sessions that include FFA, JROTC, counseling, and activities. The link leaders help assist in bringing them where they need to go on campus, having a BBQ lunch with them, and giving them a live campus tour where they can go into actual classrooms.
Weekly Accomplishments: Each week leadership students complete a weekly accomplishment sheet where they state their successes within their jobs, assistance of clubs/sports, expansion of their job, helpfulness towards a teacher, activity on social media, and more. This worksheet allows students to hold themselves accountable for the things they are (or are not) doing and gives reference to look back on the accomplishments that have been made throughout the year.
Weebly Websites: To keep our school informed about school information about leadership members, ASB has a website that is updated frequently. It has information about positions and how they are played out. The website also has details about every member of leadership, agendas, and events for the upcoming year. Plus, every student in leadership is required to set up their websites for their portfolio, professional contact, ASB minutes, and more. These websites are excellent resources for professionals and future resumes.
Warm and Fuzzy Spirit Week: A week of wearing warm, fuzzy, and comfy clothes in the winter run by the leadership class. Students are allowed to wear pajamas, fuzzy socks, as well as slippers. This week typically takes place before finals!
Winter Final Project: For the first-semester Leadership final, the students do an act of service. This can be buying and donating a gift from the donation tree, or doing another act of service. A reflection piece is written on the project.
Winter Formal: Winter Formal is a semi-formal dance for all students at RHS. Students attend a dance held in our multi-purpose room in the winter months of the school year. The sophomore class officer team is in charge of this event yearly.
Winterfest: Winterfest is a week-long spirit event similar to Homecoming. Classes compete in different class contests and promote spirit for Basketball. Classes decorate shopping carts, posters, and lemonade stands to show off their theme and earn spirit points. The court is announced at a rally with the whole school. The two spirit champions are announced at the Varsity Basketball Game (Boys and girls alternate years). This is the biggest Winter Spirit Week and it is a great way to welcome people back to school, for it takes place after we get back from winter break.
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Xtravagent events/celebrations (College Reveal Night): The Activities Director and Counseling office have worked to create a new event for the graduating class each year. A night of celebration that includes a DJ, music, photography, and snacks, seniors get an opportunity to walk down a runway and “reveal” the college they plan to attend in their post-secondary education. It is an event for all to enjoy including peers, family, and community members.
Leadership gift X-change: Every year our class has a Secret Santa-type gift exchange in which we put the names of the class into a bowl and pick them out. The students shop for each other and exchange gifts during the Winter Final period.
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Yearbook Rally: In December, the Yearbook puts on a rally to help promote the yearbook and its sales. In this rally, they show a video of the events that happen around the school and everything that has happened throughout the year so far. They also announce the senior superlatives that are voted on by the senior class. Leadership assists in any way to help the Yearbook program execute the event.
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Zealous Spirit (Spirit Counts/Spirit Days): Throughout the entire year the leadership class works to create fun spirit days (dress-up days) for the students at RHS. The spirit commissioners walk around taking counts on these specific spirit days passing out candy. The spirit commissioners work to collect the data throughout the year and at the end of the year, the most spirited class receives a treat/food/candy/etc for the effort and true Indian spirit they possess.