R.A.G.E 2025: A Day of Robotics, Anime, and Gaming Fun!

On September 27, 2025, Berkner High School was buzzing with excitement as students and families from across the region gathered for R.A.G.E 2025 (Robotics, Anime, Gaming Experience). This community event brought together fans of all ages for a day packed with creativity, competition, and connection.

From the moment attendees arrived, the energy was electric. Students dove into voice acting workshops, discovering the art of bringing characters to life. In storytelling and creative sessions, young minds explored their imagination, crafting stories and building new skills in a collaborative environment.

Gamers were in for a treat with tournaments for Rocket League, Super Smash Bros., and Mario Kart for grades 3–12. Friendly rivalries sparked excitement, while teamwork and sportsmanship were celebrated throughout the day. For those who weren’t competing, there were plenty of hands-on activities, offering fun for all ages and opportunities to explore robotics, anime, and gaming in new ways.

What truly made R.A.G.E 2 special was the community it fostered. Students connected with peers who share their passions, forming new friendships and memories that will last long after the event ended. Many attendees traveled from other districts, some even driving two hours,to be part of this incredible experience, underscoring the impact and reach of this event.

R.A.G.E 2025 was more than just games and workshops,it was a space for curiosity, creativity, and connection. Students left with new skills, unforgettable experiences, and friendships that will continue to grow.

Empowering Students, Shaping Futures

Left to right: Alison Perdomo, John Nguyen, Ana Ramos, Abby Varela.

The Richardson ISD Foundation is proud to support the next generation of leaders and learners. During the 2024–25 school year, we awarded $63,000 in scholarships to 55 students across the district, helping them pursue their dreams of higher education.

These scholarships recognize hard work, dedication, and the promise of each student’s future. By investing in our students today, we are empowering them to achieve tomorrow’s goals,whether that’s college, trade school, or other post-secondary opportunities.

We are inspired by the determination and achievements of every scholarship recipient and look forward to seeing all the incredible things they will accomplish.

Our students inspire us every day. Here’s what Abby, one  of our scholarship recipients shared about her goals, achievements, and how this support is helping them succeed:

Abby Varela - Richardson Hs, Class of 2025 

Abby is now attending Texas Woman’s University Pursuing a Bachelor's of Sciences in Criminal Justice.

“The news of receiving this scholarship truly felt so relieving, I was very stressed out before I found out if I had received the scholarship as I still didn’t know how my family would pay what wasn’t covered by financial aid. This scholarship truly helped me secure my spot at university, and without it I probably wouldn’t have been able to leave home to continue my education. I am forever thankful for this amazing scholarship. It means so much to me and my family.”

Honoring RISD’s 2025 STARS Teachers of the Year

Top row, left to right: Tania Hernandez, Lindsay Hajok, Satako Neese, Diana Larsen.

Bottom row, left to right: Dylan Kirk, Katherine McCoy, Mary Medders, Melissa Ruffino.

The Richardson ISD Foundation is thrilled to celebrate the incredible educators named as RISD’s 2025 STARS (Superior Teaching Achievements in RISD Schools) Teachers of the Year!

These eight outstanding teachers were selected from among the district’s 2024–25 Campus Teachers of the Year for their innovation, dedication, and deep commitment to students. Each was surprised on their campus with the exciting announcement  and a $1,000 award made possible through the generosity of the Richardson ISD Foundation and our amazing sponsors.

We extend our sincere thanks to Perdue Brandon Fielder Collins & Mott, LLP, Glenn Partners, and Stantec for partnering with us to make this celebration possible. Your continued support allows us to recognize the exceptional educators who make a lasting difference in the lives of RISD students every day.

The Richardson ISD Foundation is proud to champion teachers who inspire curiosity, creativity, and confidence in the classroom. 

Congratulations to the 2025 STARS Teachers of the Year!

Tania Hernandez, Northrich ES

Katherine McCoy, North JH

Satako Neese, Westwood JH

Lindsay Hajok, Arapaho Classical Magnet

Mary Medders, Lake Highlands HS

Melissa Ruffino, Lake Highlands ES

Dylan Kirk, Richland ES – RISD Elementary Teacher of the Year

Diana Larsen, Berkner HS – RISD Secondary Teacher of the Year 

Celebrating Our RISD Champions!

Top row, left to right: Cheryl Derrington, Alice France, Joella Broadway.

Bottom row, left to right:Rommel Calaguas, Rehan Mahmood, Maria Hernandez.

At the Richardson ISD Foundation, we know that our paraprofessionals, Maintenance and Operations, Child Nutrition, and Transportation employees are the heartbeat of our schools. Their dedication, passion, and daily efforts make a meaningful difference in the lives of students, staff, and the entire community.

To honor these incredible team members, we created the RISD Champion Awards, a way to recognize and thank support staff who consistently go above and beyond. Each awardee receives $500, generously sponsored by Randolph-Brooks Federal Credit Union (RBFCU), as a token of appreciation for their invaluable contributions.

These individuals exemplify dedication, passion, and excellence in their roles. From supporting students in the classroom to keeping our campuses running smoothly, they make a real difference every day.

This year, we are proud to celebrate our champions:

• Cheryl Derrington – Paraprofessional Champion

• Maria Hernandez – Facilities Services: Custodial Champion

• Rommel Calaguas – Facilities Services: Maintenance & Operations Champion

• Joella Broadway – Transportation Champion

• Rehan Mahmood – Central Support Staff Champion

• Alice France – Child Nutrition Champion
  

Congratulations to all of our RISD Champions! Your hard work and commitment do not go unnoticed, and we are proud to honor you.