Rosemary Clarke Middle School brought energy, creativity and community connection together on Thursday, March 19, as families filled the campus for this year’s Family Night, themed “RCMS March Madness.”
Inspired by the excitement of the collegiate basketball tournament that takes place each March, the event transformed the school into a lively, interactive experience with activities spread across multiple buildings, giving families plenty to explore throughout the two-hour evening.
Each area of campus offered something unique. In the F Building, families could rotate through a variety of engaging stations, including Tic Tac Toe challenges, relaxation stations, Language and Culture activities, an Estimation Station and Multiplication Facts practice. The E Building featured hands-on learning with Geography games, an “All About Bugs” station, STEAM kits and a showcase of the RCMS Magazine.
Over in the H Building, creativity and problem-solving took center stage with an art show, the interactive “Shake, Rattle and Solve” station, and additional STEM and STEAM activities. The cafeteria served as a hub of entertainment, where visitors enjoyed performances from the school’s band and choir while also grabbing coffee and popcorn.
The gym offered opportunities for both learning and school spirit, with CPR information available and a preview of the school’s cheer camp. Meanwhile, the Counseling Center provided a space for students and families to unwind with a de-stress station and a fun game of “trashketball.” In the courtyard, attendees also had the chance to purchase yearbooks.
With so many options available, families stayed on the move throughout the evening, making their way from building to building and experiencing the wide range of opportunities RCMS has to offer. The event not only highlighted academics and extracurricular programs but also created a welcoming environment for families to connect with staff and one another.
RCMS Principal April Sutton praised the success of the night and the strong participation from both staff and the community.
“Family Night was a resounding success this year,” Sutton said. “It’s an event our staff looks forward to every spring because it gives us a wonderful opportunity to connect with families outside the traditional classroom setting. We were thrilled that 32 teachers volunteered to host various STEM stations, multicultural rooms, a photo booth, an impressive art show, and many more activities. Despite a busy night in the community with competing local events, we welcomed 348 attendees who enjoyed student band and choir performances and exciting giveaways. Seeing our students and families engaging with great attitudes and smiling faces truly makes all the hard work worthwhile.”
The strong turnout and enthusiastic participation reflected the continued commitment of RCMS to fostering a sense of community while supporting student learning in fun and meaningful ways. Events like Family Night not only celebrate what students are doing in the classroom, but also strengthen the connection between school and home—something clearly on display throughout the evening.
