Rochelle High School Foundation Hosts Trivia Night for Students

The Rochelle Township High School Education Foundation (RTHSEF) will host its second annual trivia night on October 15, 2023, starting at 6:30 p.m. at the Rochelle VFW Post 3878. This lively event aims to raise funds for educational programs and opportunities for students at Rochelle Township High School. Doors will open at 5:30 p.m., allowing participants to settle in before the trivia action begins.

Teams of up to six people can register for $150, which includes access to a range of prizes donated by local businesses and organizations. Complimentary snacks will be available throughout the evening. More details and registration information can be found on the RTHS Education Foundation’s Facebook page. The foundation also encourages sponsorship opportunities for those looking to support the event.

Supporting Educational Opportunities

The RTHSEF is a nonprofit organization dedicated to enhancing educational experiences beyond the limitations of typical tax support for all students at RTHS. Over its 27-year history, the foundation has funded various initiatives that enrich the learning environment. Recent grants have provided students with drones for technology classes, flexible seating in classrooms, and equipment for extracurricular activities, including marching band and gaming clubs.

This year, the foundation aims to raise $15,000 to continue its mission. Last year’s trivia night was a success, prompting a move to a larger venue to accommodate more participants. RTHSEF representatives Jodie Hart and Jillian Wise recently shared event details with the Rochelle Rotary Club, emphasizing the importance of community support.

“We can only provide the things we provide for students through our fundraisers,” Wise stated. “We also accept donations at any time, big or small. Our trivia night will be a fun time, and all the proceeds go back to students. We’re always looking for people to attend, sponsor, promote, and donate prize items to our events.”

Impact on Students

The benefits of RTHSEF initiatives are tangible, as highlighted by RTHS teacher Deanna Jacobs. She noted that her students have gained valuable skills through the use of drones, with over 180 students becoming certified recreational drone pilots. “We’ve learned from police and agricultural companies about how they use drones,” Jacobs explained, emphasizing the educational value these programs provide. “We wouldn’t have been able to get our drones without RTHSEF, and we have nine now to get more kids out there learning.”

The trivia night will feature Nelson Baker, RTHS wrestling coach, as the emcee, ensuring an engaging atmosphere. The VFW bar will be open for drinks during the event, making it a social gathering aligned with its fundraising goals.

“Any donation helps,” Wise reiterated, noting that even small contributions can significantly impact educational programs. “The trivia event is all for fun. Come out and have some fun and support the kids in town. It’s all for the students. These grants make a world of difference for them.”

As the trivia night approaches, community members are encouraged to participate, whether by forming teams, sponsoring the event, or donating prizes, all in support of enriching the educational experiences of Rochelle students.