To spotlight all the system has to offer, Russellville City Schools will host Golden Tiger Pride Night April 20 on the RCS campus.

This will be the second year for the special showcase, and organizers said it’s going to be a night that spotlights RCS’ tradition of excellence and draws attention to all the programs and resources each school has to offer.

“Last year was the first one,” said organizing committee member Cindy Coan. “We got a lot of positive response. (Attendees) also gave us some suggestions about logistics.”

Taking those logistics into account, the committee has revamped Golden Tiger Pride Night this year, adjusting it in a way that organizers hope will streamline the evening and make it accessible to all attendees.

Last year’s two-part event will be consolidated. Instead of displays throughout the RCS auditorium showcasing RCS’ programs, each school will have a table set up outside the stadium for easy access while people are supporting RCS student athletes. Soccer and softball games will both begin at 5 p.m. with free entry to all and, like last year, attendees entry tickets are good for a free hotdog and drink while supplies last. At the school tables, faculty and students will share a wealth of information on programs and curricula for parents and community members.

“It’s going to be an information gathering event where everything is right there for them,” committee member Monica Moon said.

People will also be able to register for door prizes.

“I think it’s going to be an awesome event. I think it’s going to be a great turnout,” said committee member Stephanie Mayfield. “I think it’s a great way to end the school year on a positive note.”

“It’s getting to experience what a night on the Russellville City School campus is, with all the lights on, when everybody’s in,” added Moon. “This is a time for the whole community to come in and see everything that we’ve got going on.”

Coan said Superintendent Heath Grimes will take the opportunity to unveil the system’s Strategic Plan to the community, developed based on stakeholder surveys. In large part, Pride Night was Grimes’ idea.

“He wants to celebrate everything that is good about RCS. He wants everyone to buy into that and be a part of it,” Mayfield said. “He’s very excited about everything he does, and it’s contagious. He is pumped up all the time.”

Of note is that Pride Night is not about raising funds – only community spirit and pride. “Nobody is going to ask anybody for any money,” Coan said.

Pride Night begins at 5 p.m. with the softball and soccer games. Everyone in Russellville is invited and encouraged to attend.

“We don’t want you to feel like you have to either work here or go to school here. This is for everybody,” Moon said.

“I think it’s just going to get bigger every year,” Mayfield added. “It can only build our communities.

“You’re going to see the best of Russellville.”