EXPANDING HORIZONS

EXPANDING HORIZONS

In 2016, I had the honor of becoming the principal of Rio Hondo Junior High (RHJH). At the time, the campus faced significant challenges: declining academic performance, low teacher morale, and widespread discipline issues. As the third principal in three years, I recognized the urgent need for stability and change. I
embraced this role as a blessing—an opportunity to build a thriving culture centered on "Expanding Horizons," where students, staff, and the community could strive for excellence beyond the confines of our small, rural town.

A Vision for Global Readiness

Rio Hondo is a proud, close-knit community characterized by its rich agricultural heritage, expansive wind farms, and a vital bridge connecting its residents. While this sense of pride was evident, I knew that preparing students for the future meant equipping them with skills and experiences that reached beyond our geographic borders.

I posed transformative questions to our educators: Can our students thrive at Ivy League universities like Harvard or Yale? Can they lead in global hubs like Tokyo, New York, or Dubai? Can they innovate and impact the world like renowned figures such as President Barack Obama or Jack Andraka?

These questions reshaped our mission and our mindset, inspiring staff to think critically about the relevance and rigor of their instruction. We committed to preparing students not just to pass tests but to excel in life. The emphasis shifted from the immediate to the infinite—broadening our purpose and motivating us to push boundaries.

Listening and Leading with Purpose

Understanding the challenges ahead, I began by listening. Conversations with teachers revealed deep concerns about inconsistent discipline and a lack of clear, focused leadership. I assured them that change was not about critiquing the past but about creating a better future. Together, we adopted an innovator’s mindset—acknowledging that to achieve unprecedented results, we had to take bold, unprecedented actions.

This collaborative approach reinforced our collective commitment to growth and improvement, establishing trust as the foundation of our efforts.

Setting High Expectations

Raising expectations was an essential first step. We instilled a culture of accountability, emphasizing that excellence was non-negotiable—for students, staff, and administrators alike. Discipline policies were restructured to ensure fairness and consistency, fostering an environment where students understood the importance of respect and responsibility.

These high expectations extended beyond behavior. Academically, we set ambitious goals, emphasizing the belief that our students were capable of achieving at the highest levels. This shared vision aligned seamlessly with the district’s overarching commitment to "Academic Excellence and Success."

Visibility and Engagement

Visibility and accessibility became cornerstones of our leadership approach. The administrative team was consistently present during morning arrivals, in hallways during passing periods, at lunch, and during dismissal. Additionally, we made it a point to attend all extracurricular events, showing students and parents that we were fully invested in their success.

To reinforce this visibility, we used "The Prowler," a weekly newsletter, to communicate expectations, celebrate achievements, and highlight best practices. This tool fostered transparency and unity, ensuring that everyone remained focused on our shared goals.

Data-Driven, Student-Centered Instruction

Numbers tell a story, and at RHJH, we were determined to rewrite ours. Recognizing that Texas academic performance is heavily judged by STAAR scores, we embraced the challenge head-on. Our approach combined data-driven instruction with targeted interventions, such as STAAR-formatted mini-marks and small-group tutoring sessions.

Yet, our commitment extended beyond test scores. We prioritized the development of 21st-century skills like critical thinking, creativity, and collaboration, equipping students with the tools to succeed in an ever-changing world.

Fostering a Culture of Care and Student Voice

At RHJH, we understood that academic success begins with emotional well-being. We worked tirelessly to create a campus environment where students felt valued, supported, and empowered. Weekly positive calls to parents became a cornerstone of our approach, strengthening the connection between home and school.

Student voice played a vital role in shaping our culture. Programs like Student Council gave students opportunities to lead initiatives, from Red Ribbon Week to Career Day. These efforts not only built leadership skills but also deepened students’ connection to the school community.

Building a TEAM Culture

"One Team, One Voice" became our mantra, reflecting our belief in the power of collaboration. Staff meetings evolved into TEAM meetings, where ideas were shared, challenges were addressed collectively, and solutions were crafted together. This culture of unity extended beyond academics, creating a supportive environment where every staff member felt valued and heard.

We strengthened relationships through team-building activities, shared celebrations, and a commitment to mutual support. Whether tackling professional development challenges or organizing campus events, our staff embraced the belief that together, we could achieve greatness.

Bobcat Pride: Transforming Challenges into Triumphs

Over the past two years, RHJH has celebrated remarkable achievements that reflect our unwavering commitment to excellence:

Academic Growth: 34-point increase in Reading and a 40-point increase in Math for 8th graders compared to their 6th-grade performance. New course offerings, including Algebra I, SAT/TSI prep, and Project Lead the Way, enhancing academic opportunities.

Innovation in Learning: Integration of cutting-edge tools like Parrot Drones, Spheros, and Minecraft Edu. Expanded extracurricular activities, including Robotics Club, Chess Club, and Glee Club, offering students new ways to explore their interests.

Community Engagement: Active Student Council participation in campus initiatives. Successful events like Veterans Day ceremonies and Career Day, which strengthened ties with the broader community.

Teacher Development: Professional development sessions focused on innovative teaching tools like Kahoot and Microsoft Teams. A Twitter Challenge encouraging professional growth and collaboration.

Recognition: RHJH earned its first-ever academic distinction for Student Growth, a testament to our collective efforts.

Prowling Towards Excellence

While challenges remain, RHJH is a transformed campus. Improved scores, increased morale, and a culture of accountability demonstrate our dedication to expanding horizons for every student.

Our journey is a testament to the power of teamwork, high expectations, and a relentless focus on students. Together, we are preparing the next generation to dream big, think critically, and lead boldly, expanding horizons not only for themselves but for the entire community.

QUIETLY WATCHING FROM THE STANDS

 

QUIETLY WATCHING FROM THE STANDS

To understand my fitness journey is to understand the person I am: Asael Ruvalcaba, also known as "Smiley" Ruvalcaba. For most of my life, sports have been my world. As a kid, I recall having to fight—literally—for a chance to play in the neighborhood sandlot. That’s right, a fistfight. Luckily, I closed my eyes, swung a punch, and connected. To my surprise, I knocked the kid out. That one punch earned me respect and some street credibility in the Southmost area of Brownsville, Texas. From that moment on, baseball and sports became my life.

I was never the tallest, strongest, or fastest, but I had heart. I used every ounce of my skinny frame to compete. I believe I was good at every sport, but baseball became my passion. Baseball gave me some of the best moments of my life and introduced me to my biggest fan—my dad. From Little League to high school, my dad was always there, quietly watching from the stands. He wasn’t much of a cheerer, but his presence meant everything to me.

For the record, I’ve never liked my nickname, but it’s a part of my life that I can’t deny. My Little League coach, unable to pronounce my name, gave me the nickname “Smiley” because I was always smiling—especially during runs or pushups. While most kids saw running and pushups as punishment, I genuinely enjoyed them. I still remember Coach Conrado Vera asking, “Why are you always smiling?” My response: “I don’t know, Coach. This is fun, and I just want to play.”

Fast forward to 1990. I had just graduated high school, and my dreams of playing baseball at the next level were slim to none. Without any college offers, I tried out for the Cincinnati Reds when they held tryouts at a nearby university. Unsurprisingly, I was sent home by the scouts. For the next decade, I didn’t do much exercising. College, work, and life took over, and the effects became evident around my waistline.

On my 30th birthday, I read an article about how muscles naturally start to shrink with age, emphasizing the importance of exercise and strength training. That, combined with my growing waistline, pushed me to begin my fitness journey. I started running, cycling, and lifting. Things were going well until 2006 when I hit a wall—or rather, the wall hit me. That year, my biggest fan, my dad, was diagnosed with prostate cancer. He fought bravely for two years but eventually succumbed to the illness.

I vividly remember a day at the hospital when I told him, “Dad, as soon as you get out, we’re going to drink a beer together.” He responded, “Son, forget the beer. I just want to stand up and walk.” Sadly, my dad never left the hospital. After his passing, I began running—and I haven’t stopped since. His words became my refuge and my motivation to live a healthy life.

For a while, I competed in 5K runs, half-marathons, triathlons, and even a mud race. I’ve checked those boxes, and now I exercise simply to stay healthy. Thankfully, through Twitter, I connected with the FitLeaders movement and Dr. Ryan Jackson. The FitLeaders community keeps me motivated, inspired, and aligned with their mantra: Live Better to Lead Better. This group of educators from across the United States and Canada doesn’t care about titles or positions. Together, we share a commitment to improving ourselves so we can better serve others.

As educators, we must take care of ourselves first—physically and mentally—because servant leadership starts with being prepared to serve. It’s not a job with an ON/OFF switch; it’s a 24/7 process. Our profession demands the very best of us because children’s lives are at stake. I strongly believe in this principle: “Schools were not created for adults to have jobs. Schools were created for kids, and it’s our job to make them great.”

Bottom line: we must make time to exercise. Trust me, I can find a million excuses not to wake up at 4 a.m. for my daily grind. But then I think of my dad, my family, the people I serve, and the FitLeaders community. I see it as both a duty and a responsibility. I have too many people depending on me, and I cannot fail them.

As for my dad, I know he’s still there, quietly watching from the stands.

PLAYING CATCH

PLAYING CATCH

For nearly 37 years of my life, my dad was always there. Not once did I ever imagine a world without him. Sadly, in 2008, he left for a better place. There’s no doubt in my mind that he is in Heaven. My dad was the greatest father, son, friend, brother, and uncle anyone could ever ask for. He was a kind, loving person who had no enemies and always avoided arguments, especially with my mother.

Though he was a man of few words, he was deeply loved by everyone who knew him. He treated everyone with respect, even if he disagreed with them. My dad was a hard worker, a great role model, and a teacher of life. He often preached the same lessons to us:

Hard work pays off. Always be on time. Be good to people. Respect your elders. No one is better than you, and you are not better than anyone else.

He was also incredibly strict, and he kept his five children in check. Yes, I made plenty of mistakes, and he made sure I remembered them—usually with the belt. Yet, out of all the memories I have, one stands out the most: playing catch.

After a long day at work, even though he was tired, my dad always made time to play catch with me. He taught me how to throw a curveball and how to pitch low and outside. I’m certain that if it were up to him, he would have loved for me to play professional baseball. That was my dream too.

Sorry, Dad, the Major Leagues didn’t work out. But trust me, I’m in a great position. I’m not a pitcher, third baseman, or left fielder for the New York Yankees. Instead, I’m the proud principal of Rio Hondo High School P-TECH. This job is challenging, but it’s also incredibly rewarding. It’s about helping mold young lives, just like you molded ours.

This position isn’t about me and never will be. It’s about the kids and making their dreams a reality. I often wonder: Why can’t the next U.S. President come from the halls of RHHS P-TECH? Why not? Are we helping kids achieve their dreams? Are we giving them the skills they need to succeed? Are we creating learning environments that truly challenge our students? Or are we missing the bigger picture?

And one final question: did my dad fail because I didn’t make it to the Major Leagues? The answer is a resounding no. He didn’t fail. Along with my teachers, he gave me the skills I needed to succeed in life. Little did he know that those evenings playing catch would inspire me to dream big.

Thank you, Dad. Until we meet again, I’ll keep playing catch.

EXPECT NOTHING IN RETURN

EXPECT NOTHING IN RETURN

My parents taught me a very important lesson early in life. The message was clear and simple: “Always try to help people; do it out of kindness and expect nothing in return.” Honestly, as a teenager, I probably didn’t fully understand the concept, but regardless, my parents made sure I practiced that lesson. They had me mow yards for free. Every month, I would mow four yards, and even though I expected nothing in return, I am here today to tell you that I have received something in return. I have been blessed—blessed with a great family, wonderful kids, amazing friends, good health, and a fulfilling job. If you don’t know by now, trust that one good deed is always followed by another. 

This year, during Random Acts of Kindness Week, which coincided with the month of February, four of our students went out of their way to acknowledge our custodians. These girls decided to give our custodians a heartfelt Valentine’s treat, and just like me, they expected nothing in return. The custodians were overwhelmed with tears of joy. Fast forward to this past Friday—I received a phone call from our superintendent informing me that one of the custodians’ sons was so moved by our students’ kindness that he wanted to show his appreciation. Army Specialist Eli Mata came to our campus and treated our girls to Papa John’s Pizza. The girls were surprised and honored. Never in their wildest dreams did they expect this. Their original intent was to be kind, nothing more.

I’ve said it once, and I’ll say it again: I have only been here for less than a year, but this act of kindness stands out as one of my proudest moments as the leader of this campus. There is no doubt in my mind that we will have other success stories, but this one will always stay close to home—literally.

Thank you, Elvira Ortega, Anamia Duran, Xitlali Coyote, and Diana Godinez, for the beautiful reminder. Keep making your parents and our community proud.