Rockingham Academy is a public alternative education institution within Rockingham County Public Schools that offers innovative learning approaches tailored to meet the needs of diverse student populations. Its programs often cater to students requiring different instructional methods. Rockingham Academy typically emphasizes personalized learning plans, smaller class sizes, and flexible scheduling to support students in reaching their academic and personal goals.
According to Lea Dean, Principal of Rockingham Academy, the philosophy they embrace is inspired by the Starfish Story:
One day a man was walking along the beach when he noticed a boy picking up and gently throwing things into the ocean.
Approaching the boy he asked, “Young man, what are you doing?”
“Throwing starfish back into the ocean. The surf is up and the tide is going out. If I don’t throw them back, they’ll die,” the boy replied.
The man laughed to himself and said, “Do you realize there are miles of miles of beach and hundreds of starfish? You can’t make any difference.”
After listening politely, the boy bent down to pick up another starfish and threw it into the surf. Then, he smiled at the man and said, “I made a difference to that one.”
-adapted from The Star Thrower, by Loren Eiseley (1907 – 1977)
This small school embraces community and hands-on learning. Mrs. Trumbo's science class at Rockingham Academy has been hands-on when it comes to experiments. Below are students working on Newton's Laws of Motion, starting their lettuce, kale, lavender, chamomile, sunflower seeds, planting bulbs, and learning about buoyancy through water play.
Among the many other noteworthy events that occurred this year are:
A new mascot, the Phoenix, was recently adopted by the school based on the votes of the students, and students brought the mascot to life by painting murals around the school.
Six students from RA will attend the CTE Job Fair on April 11th, which will take place at the Fair Grounds. We are proud of RA's efforts so far this year, as four students have successfully completed the GED program, and five students have graduated from high school.
There was a recent breakfast fundraiser held by Sunset Drive Church-United Methodist Church, and it was successful in raising $1,140 for the school.
As you look to working in your yard, beginning April 2nd, The Rockingham Academy Ag Department is offering a FREE spring maintenance on small engines (walk-behind mowers, string line trimmers, riding mower, etc...)
They can do the following:
1. Wash/wax
2. Clean air filters
3. Clean spark plugs
4. Sharpen blades
5. Check oil
6. Oil change (if you provide the oil and oil filter)
This FREE service will be available from April 2-12. If you have questions or want to reserve a spot, please email drhodes01@rockingham.k12.va.us. Donations are accepted and appreciated!
We are grateful for our teachers, staff, and students at Rockingham Academy. Everyone can make a difference — even if that difference affects one person.