Every new school year brings changes. The 2014-2015 Rocky Mount Academy calendar is no different. From new kids to new classes, Rocky Mount Academy has undergone many modifications over the summer. RMA has 59 new students including a very large Pre-K class.  These new students often experience a transition when switching from their previous schools.  Such is the case with new sophomore, Thomas Moore, who says, “I like that there are not as many people here and we get out earlier than my old school.” According to Registrar Dawana Davis, enrollment is strong this year.

RMA has also changed their schedules for middle and high school. This year, students only have two minutes to switch classes as opposed to three minutes last year.  Also, Flex, which is a twenty-five minute class period which allows students to study, see teachers, and participate in clubs, is now before lunch instead of after lunch. “It’s going to take a while to get used to since we’ve always had Flex after lunch,” said Jack Thorp, a junior at RMA, when asked what he thinks about the new schedule. The last class of the day, which is high school students’ elective, is now an hour long so sports teams will not be missing class for away games.

RMA now has a few new classes as well. Media Office, American Cultures, and AP Physics are all new to RMA. American Cultures, taught by Mr. Stone, is a class that covers the culture of the United States during the 20^th Century.  At opposite ends of the school, Media Office is an elective that brings school, local, and worldwide news here to RMA. Finally, AP Physics is a new advanced placement class that explores the nature of physics instructed by Dr. Fritchel.

Seeing the fruition of these changes on August 25^th, RMA had a spectacular opening day. With some parents here for senior breakfast and others walking their children in, the parking lots were full.  Consequently, car lines were backed up as far as the eye could see with Dr. Koszelak directing the traffic. The kids hopped out of cars excited to see friends and share summer stories. “I can’t wait to see my friends” said Gavin Bauer on his first day of fourth grade. But the kids were not the only ones excited for school to start up again. “I’m glad school is starting up because now I can run on a schedule” said Jennifer Epps, the mother of Cooper Epps (3^rd grade) and Davis Epps (5^th grade). With eager students and teachers, it looks like the 2014-2015 school year will be great year here at RMA.