With spring break around the corner, the administration hosted the first annual day event called “Lucky to be a Bulldog.” The purpose of this day was to foster a sense of unity and school spirit among the student body, highlighting the importance of community for our unique school. It was also a reminder of the pride we have as bulldogs.

We started the day with 20-minute classes, and at 11:30, the entire school gathered in the gym to begin their afternoon festivities. Ms. Jove opened the event by greeting the student body and celebrating the strides we have made this year while acknowledging the importance of addressing students’ social and emotional needs by taking a break from academics.

Scattered around the athletic field and courtyard were 12 hidden charms, each inscribed with the name of a specific trait that represented that grade. This year, the list of adjectives was leadership, resilience, compassion, integrity, kindness, courage, and gratitude, and the goal was to inspire each grade level to bring those words to life through their actions. Once found, each grade level shared its word with the rest of the student body in a continuous chant throughout the day. This activity served as a powerful reminder of the diverse qualities each individual brings to the vibrant community at Riviera.

After each grade returned from collecting their “Lucky Charms,” the entire school gathered in the gymnasium. The students’ array of colored shirts and energetic aura culminated in today’s event. The student body was surprised with the return of a Riviera alum, Sofia Perez, Class of 2020.

Perez shared how her Riviera journey was not all fun and games. She was always bright and involved in the community as president of Key Club, but she admittedly had a certain negative attitude towards school, was rude to others, and had frequent talks with Ms. Jove. However, with the support of our counselors, including Ms. Carballo, teachers, and staff, Perez got into a top-fifty school, Syracuse. Not only did Riviera allow her to have a bright future and continue serving through Key Club, but she also changed her outlook on life and how she treats others. Hearing her speak and answer some of the student’s questions was an incredible surprise. She was invited back to inspire students struggling with challenges similar to those she once faced, demonstrating the value and privilege of being part of this school.

The Seniors vs. Teachers kickball tournament showcased our students and educators’ athletic skills in a battle for the grand prize, bragging rights. An absolute banger of a kick from Daniel Kluger (12) went straight past all the defenders, allowing him and Johan Houdebine (12) to run all the bases and take the lead in one round. It was a true spectacle, and the students loved seeing their teachers in a non-academic setting. The game went back and forth with no scoring for a couple of innings, but at the end of the tumultuous match, the seniors were victorious over the teachers with a 2-0 win.

During “Lucky to be a Bulldog” day, members of the Parents’ Club volunteered to set up tents with treats for the students. Each table was decked out with the grade’s colors and decorations and an array of refreshments and snacks for the students to enjoy throughout the day. In addition to the stalls, the administration arranged for several food trucks, offering lunch alternatives to students and teachers. The lineup included barbecue, crepes, tacos, and more, so there were countless options for lunch.

Ultimately, the first annual “Lucky to be a Bulldog Day” had all grades reflecting Riviera Schools’ core values. This reminds us that students become bulldogs not when they wear the uniform but when they embody the virtues of leadership, resilience, compassion, and gratitude.

Although it was not perfect, the speeches could have been more concise, and a few lull points between activities left the students wanting. Next year, separate assemblies for middle and high schools could tailor the rhetoric to an age-appropriate level, and there should be more activities, like a color run, inflatables, games, and an activity each grade level can host.

Overall, the day was a success, and many kids left school feeling more like a community—a pack of bulldogs rather than just another lone wolf.