Trisha Hickman is trying to stay ahead of the game by making several save-the-date requests to the Ripon Unified school board.

RUSD policy calls for 90 days in advance.

Hickman, who is spearheading this year’s Sober Grad efforts at Ripon High, provided notices well in advance.

Earlier this meeting, the Ripon Sober Grad president asked for the following places and dates to be reserved:

• RHS Multi-Purpose Room / kitchen, March 6-7, for the benefit Fashion Show.

• RHS North and South gyms / Multi-Purpose Room / kitchen, May 29-30, Sober Grad Night.

• RHS gym for RHS vs. Ripon Christian boys’ volleyball match in a date to be announced.

• RHS gym for volleyball practice also to be announced.

The Sober Grad group, in addition, is planning a Dodge Ball game.

Trustees voted 5-0 on use and reserving of these facilities.

“On graduation night, we, along with the parents, teachers, staff, local businesses, and the community throw an all-night party of epic proportions that is one of the city’s most elaborate events,” Hickman said in a letter to the district.

Over the last 10 years, this non-profit organization has kept thousands of students safe and sober on their special evening.

In other action, the board approved the hiring of Ripona Elementary School teacher Kelly Hanson and Robert Trimboli in Nutritional Services.

Monica Aceves, who spent the past five years working lunch period yard duty at Park View Elementary School, submitted her letter of resignation to take on a full-time position at another school district.

Michael Scharmann did likewise to Ed Tabliabue, his supervisor in Maintenance / Operations / Transportation, opting against pursuing his Class B license that’s required to drive a school bus based on the out-of-pocket expense unequaled to the hourly wage being offered.

The board signed off on the hires and resignations.