Sixth grader River Cox has been part of the Royce community for nearly four years, joining in second or third grade — “I don’t know exactly,” she laughs — but long enough to feel right at home. With a full team of teachers supporting her, including Ms. Lloyd, Mr. McArthur, Ms. Vaughn, Ms. Vogeler, Mr. Beaman, Mr. Newman, and Ms. Christensen, River has grown academically, socially, and creatively.
When asked what she’s improved the most since coming to Royce, River doesn’t hesitate.
“Probably math a bit,” she says. “And maybe a bit of reading. I read a lot.”
For her, the difference isn’t just in the subjects — it’s in the environment. Compared to her previous schools, River says Royce feels more engaging, more active, and more connected.
“My old schools were a bit different,” she explains. “One of them was kind of similar, but here there’s more education… and more activities.”
And activities are where River truly lights up.
“My favorite thing about the school is all the activities they plan — and honestly, all the teachers,” she says.
Over the years, River has explored a little bit of everything: flag football, art club, and now gaming club. “Last year I was in flag football, then I switched to art club. This year, I’m in gaming club,” she says proudly.
She’s also stepping into something new — the school play.
River admits that performing alone on stage isn’t her favorite thing. “I don’t like going on stage by myself,” she says. “But with the play, you’re with other people, so you don’t feel alone. It gets easier.”
She’s excited about the new theater space, the stage upgrades, and the chance to try something that once felt intimidating. “I think it’ll be fun,” she says. “I practiced at home with voice acting and stuff.”
For River, Royce has become a place where trying new things feels safe — where teachers cheer you on, classmates become teammates, and activities help you discover who you are.
And as she continues to explore clubs, plays, and everything in between, one thing is clear: River is finding her voice, her confidence, and her community at Royce.
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