GreatNews.Life Student Voices: Riley highlights excellence, achievement, and rising talent

What’s recently happened?

On February 14, Riley High School’s Mock Trial team competed and delivered an impressive performance. The team faced several strong competitors, including Adams High School, a program known for its state level success. Despite the tough competition, Riley students showed confidence and professionalism as they demonstrated their skills as both attorneys and witnesses.

One standout performer was Leighann Atkins, who served as an attorney on the defense team. Her performance earned her the Outstanding Attorney Award, highlighting both her preparation and ability to think quickly under pressure. Awards like this reflect the hard work and dedication that the team has put in throughout the season.

Like many competitive teams, Riley’s Mock Trial members experienced ups and downs along the way. Entering the competition as underdogs brought nerves, but the students didn’t let that show in the courtroom. Instead, they rose to the challenge, supporting one another and giving their best effort in every round. Their perseverance and teamwork played a major role in their success.

Riley is extremely proud of the Mock Trial team and everything they accomplished this season. With strong leadership and talented returning members, the future looks bright, and many are already excited to see what the team will achieve next year.

What’s coming up?

As February comes to an end, spring sports are kicking off at Riley. Many student-athletes have been training hard all winter to prepare for the upcoming season. Riley offers multiple spring sports for both boys and girls, and this year is shaping up to be an exciting one.

Both the Boys and Girls Track teams have been preparing throughout the winter. The track program has made its mark in recent seasons and hopes to continue that success. With returning regional qualifiers Trevor Crum and Holland Payne, along with state qualifiers Samara Ford and Kayanna Ellis, the team is looking strong. Riley’s very own two-time state qualifier Abby Wittrock will also return after competing in the 4×100-meter relay state appearances.

Softball never stopped training in preparation for this spring season. After finishing last year with an impressive 18–10 record, the girls are more determined than ever to build on their success. Last year, they received Academic All-State as a team. With returning senior Elliana Gonzales, known for her unforgettable grand slam, the Wildcats should have no problem staying competitive.

Boys Volleyball returns this spring for its second season. Though small, the team is mighty and has been conditioning to make a name for itself. Keep an eye out for returning athletes Tyler Pflugner and Bradford Washington, who remain focused and ready for the challenge.

These athletes put in countless hours during the off-season just to compete in such a short season. Spring sports may be the shortest season of the year, but the dedication and hard work behind it are anything but small. The 2026 season is definitely one you won’t want to miss.

Staff spotlight:

Katie Boocher is a devoted English teacher at Riley High School and serves as the English Department Chair. She has spent the last 15 years educating and motivating Riley students. Boocher is a 2007 graduate of South Bend Washington High School and later attended Bethel University, where she played softball.

Boocher is a fan favorite among students due to her genuine personality and the care she shows for their futures. During her own high school years, she experienced many different teaching styles, which helped her learn how to explain concepts in ways students can better understand.

“It’s really cool when you explain something and you see people get it. It’s fun to watch their eyes light up when they finally make that connection,” she said. 

Moments like these motivated her to pursue a career in teaching.

Outside of the classroom, Boocher enjoys sports, whether watching or playing. This year, she introduced a new class called Sports Literature, which many students were excited about. The class explores sports while also focusing on the mental aspect behind them.

“The class uses sports as a lens for kids who might struggle with reading. It gives them an opportunity to find something they like for an English credit,” Boocher said.

Next year, Boocher hopes to introduce a True Crime and Mysteries class that will explore both fictional and real stories. She hopes this new genre will excite students about learning.

Boocher has previously coached volleyball, basketball, and softball at Riley. She also coached softball at Mishawaka High School for seven years. She is currently the Class of 2027 co-sponsor alongside her younger sister, who is the head of guidance at Riley.

“She’s my built-in best friend, and now we get to see each other as professionals,” Boocher said.

Boocher is proud of where she came from and hopes people don’t forget about Riley and all it has to offer.

Student spotlight:

Dakori Parker is a junior at Riley High School and a hardworking student-athlete who has quickly made an impact both in the classroom and on the court. A standout basketball player, Parker has earned recognition as an elite, high-volume scorer and play maker while maintaining strong academic performance.

Parker joined the Riley community after transferring from Washington High School and has already become one of the faces of Riley athletics. Last year, he was named Second Team All-NIC. More recently, Parker scored 35 points and made 11 three-pointers in a 92–58 victory over Mishawaka Marian High School.

Despite his demanding athletic schedule, Parker prioritizes his academics and works hard to balance both responsibilities.

“I try to focus on finishing my work in school so that I have time to rest after school,” Parker said.

Parker enjoys coming to school each day because of the relationships he has built with both friends and staff members. His favorite class is English with Kennedy Ward.

“Ms. Ward is very helpful when it comes to explaining things, which makes the work a lot easier,” Parker said.

Outside of school, Parker can usually be found in the gym or weight room training. On the rare occasions when he is not working out, he enjoys playing video games or spending time with friends.

Looking toward the future, Parker hopes to play basketball at the collegiate level. He credits much of his motivation to the strong support system he has built at Riley.

“I want to mention my dad, mom, coaches, and friends who motivate me every day,” Parker said. “They help me through both my life and my career.”

Parker stays positive even when faced with challenges and uses his faith as motivation to move forward.

“When times get rough, quitting should never be the first option,” Parker said. “Keep an open mind and look for ways to overcome challenges. You may need to take a step back, but never give up.”

Riley is fortunate to have a driven, motivated student-athlete like Parker representing the school both on and off the court.