Dear Warrior Family,
Due to the extreme weather on Tuesday and Wednesday we are adjusting our class schedule. On both days we will be flipping our schedule. Therefore students will need to arrive dressed in their PE attire. We will begin the day with a light a PE activity outside. Please make sure your child is hydrating well and remembers to bring their water bottle. We also ask that students refrain from bringing jackets and sweaters as it will be very warm and we want to avoid students getting too hot.
On another note next week Tuesday, Wednesday and Thursday are chapel End of Year awards days. Tuesday we will present Elementary, Wednesday Middle and Thursday High school. Awards presentations will begin at 8:15 sharp!  Finally our summer camp begins June 2nd. Weekly fee is $200 which includes Powerline for students who may benefit from it.   Please remember Next Thursday, 5/22/2025, is last day of school . Dismissal is noon.
Blessings
Mr. Castillo

​The 24-25 school year is coming to a close. Be sure to order your yearbook to capture all the great moments for your student. The cost is $35.00 per copy. Reserve yours today!
Name:_____________________   Adviser______________
Orders are accepted on payment. Last day to order and pay is May 22, 2025. You may pay for your order by check, money order, or credit card.  Payments may be sent with students to their Advisory teacher or made in the front office.

At River City Christian School, we believe every child deserves a learning environment designed just for them—especially our students with learning differences. One way we do that is by carefully balancing whole group and small group instruction. But what’s the difference, and why does it matter?
Whole group instruction happens when the teacher is guiding the entire class at once. This time is great for building community, introducing new concepts, and setting a shared foundation. It gives students structure and a chance to see the big picture.
But learning doesn’t stop there.
Small group instruction is where the magic happens for many of our students. These groups are intentionally kept small so teachers can tailor instruction to students’ individual needs. Whether it's reteaching a tricky concept, offering hands-on practice, or simply giving space to ask questions, small group time allows for more focused attention, stronger relationships, and personalized support.
For students with learning differences, this approach is a game-changer. It helps reduce overwhelm, builds confidence, and allows each child to move at a pace that works for them.
In both settings, our goal remains the same: to meet students where they are and help them grow—academically, spiritually, and emotionally.
It’s not about one being better than the other. It’s about using both intentionally to give every student the best chance to succeed.
At River City, we see each child’s potential—and we teach in a way that lets it shine.

Dear Warrior Family,
Thank you for your support of gala this year. Through your contributions, participation and support we raised $20,000. Go Warriors!!
Blessings
Mr. Castillo

At RCCS, we believe that every student is uniquely created by God and has a divine purpose. For students with learning differences, school can sometimes feel overwhelming, but faith provides a source of strength and encouragement. One of the most powerful tools available to us as Christians is prayer. But can prayer truly help with learning challenges? The answer is a resounding yes!

Prayer Brings Peace and Confidence
When facing academic struggles, it’s easy to feel anxious, frustrated, or even discouraged. Prayer allows us to bring these emotions before God and find peace in His presence. Philippians 4:6-7 reminds us, "Do not be anxious about anything, but in everything, by prayer and petition, with thanksgiving, present your requests to God. And the peace of God, which transcends all understanding, will guard your hearts and minds in Christ Jesus." Through prayer, students can release their worries and gain confidence, knowing that they are not alone in their challenges.

Prayer Invites God’s Guidance and Wisdom
Learning challenges can make it difficult to grasp new concepts, stay organized, or complete assignments efficiently. James 1:5 tells us, "If any of you lacks wisdom, let him ask of God, who gives generously to all without finding fault, and it will be given to him." When we pray for wisdom, we invite God to illuminate our minds, help us understand new material, and guide us in our studies. He may provide clarity through teachers, mentors, or even moments of inspiration.

Prayer Strengthens Perseverance
Challenges in learning require persistence, and prayer can help develop a spirit of perseverance. Isaiah 40:31 encourages us with these words: "But those who hope in the Lord will renew their strength. They will soar on wings like eagles; they will run and not grow weary, they will walk and not be faint." Through prayer, students can find the determination to keep going, even when schoolwork seems tough. God equips us with the endurance needed to overcome obstacles and grow in resilience.

Prayer Connects Us to a Supportive Community
At RCCS, we emphasize the power of a faith-filled community. Prayer does not have to be a solitary act—students, teachers, and families can pray together for strength and encouragement. When students share their struggles in prayer with others, they receive support, wisdom, and encouragement from those who care about them. Matthew 18:20 assures us, "For where two or three gather in my name, there am I with them." Knowing that others are praying alongside us can be incredibly uplifting.

Faith and Effort Work Together
Prayer is a powerful spiritual tool, but it also works best when combined with effort. Students are encouraged to pray while also using effective study strategies, seeking help when needed, and making the most of their resources. God calls us to be diligent and faithful in our efforts, as seen in Colossians 3:23: "Whatever you do, work at it with all your heart, as working for the Lord, not for human masters."

Learn Different, Be Different!
Learning challenges can be difficult, but with prayer, students can find peace, wisdom, perseverance, and community support. At RCCS, we encourage our students to lean on their faith and trust that God will provide the strength they need. By combining prayer with hard work, students can overcome challenges and grow academically and spiritually. God has a plan for every student, and through prayer, they can confidently walk in His purpose.

Are you concerned about the growing crisis of depression and unhappiness among young people?
As a parent, you see the challenges this generation faces — anxiety, isolation, and a sense of hopelessness. According to the latest World Happiness Report, America ranks as the 10th happiest nation, yet our young people have plummeted to 62nd in happiness — a decline steeper than that of youth in Ukraine, Palestine, and Iraq.
But there is hope. What can we learn from nations like Israel — one of the happiest places on Earth despite constant adversity? More importantly, as parents and believers, how can we step into the "happiness gap" to help our children find true fulfillment.
Join us for this important Lighthouse Voices event with Dr. Jeff Myers, president of Summit Ministries, as we explore how truth, faith, and intentional parenting can make a lasting difference in the next generation.

Event Details:

• Date: March 18, 2025
• Time: Doors open at 6:30 PM MT, event starts at 7:00 PM MT
• Location: Focus on the Family Welcome Center, 8685 Explorer Dr, Colorado Springs, CO

This event is free to attend. Reserve your spot now!
Join via livestream, you’ll also have the chance ask Jeff your questions in a live Q&A.
Let’s come together to change the narrative for the next generation — starting with our own families. I hope to see you there!

Education is meant to be a pathway to opportunity, but traditional learning environments may not meet the diverse needs of every student. For those with learning differences—such as dyslexia, ADHD, and autism—accommodations play a crucial role in ensuring equal access to education.
Understanding Learning Differences
Learning differences affect how students process information. Rather than lowering academic expectations, accommodation provides tools and strategies to help these students demonstrate their knowledge in a way that aligns with their abilities.
The Purpose of Accommodations
Accommodation removes barriers to learning while maintaining academic standards. They do not offer an unfair advantage but rather ensure that students can participate fully in the educational experience.
Types of Accommodations
Classroom and Instructional Accommodations

• Extended Time on Assignments and Tests: Helps students who need additional processing time.
• Alternative Instructional Methods: Visual aids, audiobooks, and hands-on activities support different learning styles.
• Preferential Seating: Reduces distractions for students with attention difficulties.
• Note-Taking Assistance: Outlines or recorded lectures support students with writing challenges.

Testing Accommodations

• Quiet Testing Environment: Minimizes distractions for students with ADHD or anxiety.
• Oral or Typed Responses: Supports students with dyslexia or motor skill difficulties.
• Multiple Testing Sessions: Allows students to focus on smaller sections at a time.

Technology-Based Accommodations

• Text-to-Speech and Speech-to-Text Tools: Assist students with reading and writing challenges.
• Assistive Software and Apps: Tools like Grammarly help with organization and grammar.
• Calculator or Spell-Checker Use: Allows students to focus on problem-solving rather than mechanics.

Organizational Supports

• Visual Schedules and Planners: Aid students in managing tasks.
• Breaks and Movement Opportunities: Helps students with attention difficulties stay engaged.
• Checklists and Step-by-Step Instructions: Makes assignments more manageable.

Emotional and Psychological Benefits
Accommodation helps boost students' confidence and reduce frustration. Without them, students may experience anxiety and feelings of inadequacy. By ensuring their needs are met, accommodation fosters a sense of inclusion and empowerment.
Collaboration is Key
Teachers, parents, and students must work together to implement accommodation effectively. RCCS creates individualized plans based on each student’s needs, laying a framework for ensuring consistent support throughout a student’s academic journey.
Conclusion
Accommodation ensures fairness, not advantage. By addressing individual learning needs, RCCS helps students reach their full potential, improving both academic success and emotional well-being. A commitment to inclusive education ensures that every student has the opportunity to thrive.