Santa Maria Joint Union High School District

09/02/2026

The turf will decide the unofficial ownership of the “RHS and PVHS” football helmet for rivals Righetti and Pioneer Valley High Schools this Friday night.

The “Battle of the Helmet” event kicked off with a noontime lunch on Wednesday at Cool Hand Luke’s Restaurant. Some players, coaches, athletic directors and a few administrators from the Panthers and Warriors participated.

The winner gets to keep the special football helmet and the bragging rights for a year.

“This will be a great competitive game with great sportsmanship by both teams. We do have a new Head Varsity Coach, Chris Etheridge, this year. He is teaching a positive culture for our student athletes that should extend to the playing field. Righetti is returning coach Rustin Picket. And together this will be a great game for both teams and great sportsmanship.” – Panther Athletic Director Michael Bloodworth.

“We always look forward to the friendly rivalry between our two schools. A lot of these kids have grown up together and have been friends for many years. It's a great opportunity for these athletes and our District to come together." – Warrior Athletic Director Kevin Barbarick.

Last year’s score was RHS (49) and PV (7).

Media Contact: SMJUHSD Public Information Officer Kenny Klein

09/02/2026

The turf will decide the unofficial ownership of the “RHS and PVHS” football helmet for rivals Righetti and Pioneer Valley High Schools this Friday night.
The “Battle of the Helmet” event kicked off with a noontime lunch on Wednesday at Cool Hand Luke’s restaurant.
The winner gets to keep the special football helmet and the bragging rights for a year.
Thank you, Kenny Klein- SMJUHSD Public Information Officer (PIO).

09/01/2026

08/28/2026

August 28, 2026: Santa Maria High School seniors gathered bright and early at Ralph Baldivia Stadium–Dave Boyd Field on Friday morning to celebrate the annual Senior Sunrise, a special tradition marking the beginning of their final year as Saints.

The stadium gates opened at 6 a.m., and seniors arrived carrying breakfast treats, including donuts, drinks, breakfast sandwiches and more to share with friends who had made plans to meet at the football field. What began as an early morning quickly turned into a memorable celebration filled with laughter, friendship, and plenty of school spirit.

Throughout the morning, seniors had the opportunity to make lasting memories with their classmates. Some played with the parachute, while others tossed a football, kicked a soccer ball around, or simply relaxed and enjoyed time with their friends. Music played in the background as students gathered on the field, creating an energetic, festive atmosphere.

Senior Class Adviser Shelly Springer was excited to see the seniors enjoying themselves. “I am so happy to see the seniors having a blast out here! I hope they realize that one day they will look back and appreciate this moment.” Senior Carolina Jimenez shared her excitement about the event. “This is so cool! I’m glad to see so many seniors together!”

Senior Sunrise was more than an early-morning gathering.

“It gave the Class of 2027 a chance to come together, celebrate their friendships, and start creating memories they will carry long after graduation,” said Saint Activity Director Adrian Salazar.

As the sun rose over Ralph Baldivia Stadium, the Class of 2027 officially began what promises to be a memorable final year at Santa Maria High School.

Media Contact: SMJUHSD Public Information Officer Kenny Klein

08/28/2026

Santa Maria High School seniors gathered bright and early at Ralph Baldivia Stadium–Dave Boyd Field on Friday morning to celebrate the annual Senior Sunrise, a special tradition marking the beginning of their final year as Saints.
Thank you,
Kenny Klein – SMJUHSD Public Information Officer (PIO)

08/28/2026

Thousands of parents and students attended Back-to-School Night at Pioneer Valley High School, Righetti High School, Santa Maria High School, and the Mark Richardson Center on August 27th.

Families got a chance to experience a student’s schedule, meet staff, teachers, and members of the administration. Teachers were also available to answer questions about course expectations and academic progress.

“It was a very nice atmosphere, and I liked being able to put a teacher’s face with my son’s classes,” said Juan Soto, whose son attends PVHS. “It made me feel more comfortable about high school.’’

SMJUHSD Executive Director of Teaching and Learning Ted Lyon said the events were a great occasion for parents to “connect” with staff and visit classrooms.

“Back-to-School Night is a great opportunity for parents to meet the staff and walk the campus,’’ Lyon added. “It fosters the school home partnership that is essential for long term student success.”

Delta High School will complete the Back-to-School Night series on September 10th.

Media Contact: SMJUHSD Public Information Officer Kenny Klein

08/28/2026

MRC Pic- Thousands of parents and students attended Back-to-School Night at Pioneer Valley High School, Righetti High School, Santa Maria High School, and the Mark Richardson Center on August 27th.
Thank you,
Kenny Klein – SMJUHSD Public Information Officer

08/28/2026

RHS Pic- Thousands of parents and students attended Back-to-School Night at Pioneer Valley High School, Righetti High School, Santa Maria High School, and the Mark Richardson Center on August 27th.
Thank you,
Kenny Klein – SMJUHSD Public Information Officer

08/28/2026

SMHS PIc- Thousands of parents and students attended Back-to-School Night at Pioneer Valley High School, Righetti High School, Santa Maria High School, and the Mark Richardson Center on August 27th.
Thank you,
Kenny Klein – SMJUHSD Public Information Officer

08/28/2026

Pv Pic - Thousands of parents and students attended Back-to-School Night at Pioneer Valley High School, Righetti High School, Santa Maria High School, and the Mark Richardson Center on August 27th.
Thank you,
Kenny Klein – SMJUHSD Public Information Officer