Taking school online is a daunting task for any school, but Rivendell's unique individualized curriculum made it possible for our teachers to continue academically challenging every student at the appropriate level, even from a distance. Keeping one-on-one relationships and parent communication a top priority was the focus of our transition to remote learning. Of course, it's not how we would choose to make school happen, and we miss our Rivendell home so much, but it's good to know we can continue to provide individualized instruction, even though it has to look a little different right now.
sand into various size buckets and then placing the buckets on the wall next to them. When another child joined the group with a bucket of pinecones and twigs, they talked excitedly for a couple of minutes before all of the children began mixing the pinecones and twigs with the sand. To an onlooker, this interaction may seem like just a fun time when, in actuality, through these playful interactions, children are learning important lessons about the world around them.
Rivendell’s academic preschool is an immersive introduction to school. We focus on early literacy and numeracy skills through fun hands-on work jobs. Preschoolers take part in weekly "specials" including Spanish, art, music, science, and PE. Along with academics, students learn mindfulness and responsibility for their actions. Our teachers are there to help students work through challenges. This helps children become independent and take pride in their problem-solving abilities.
Our Younger Kids program stimulates the learner in every child. Students receive personal learning plans and individual instruction for reading, writing, and math. As part of their weekly specials, Younger Kids begin attending computer class. Responsibility, independence, self-esteem, and empathy develop through work and play. In our safe environment, children take risks and explore their creativity.
Persistent learning and mastery of skills and concepts is a focus for Middle Kids. Students move through the curriculum at their own pace and with appropriate challenges. Interpersonal skills, conflict resolution, self-responsibility, initiative, and independence are further developed. Middle Kids teachers encourage students to take risks and challenges in their learning.
Rivendell Older Kids have skills to take on the future - middle school, high school, and beyond. A growth mindset and love of learning enable students to do whatever they set out to do. The curriculum is challenging and includes new concepts to ensure Middle School readiness. Along with academics, teachers encourage self-advocacy and relationship building with teachers and peers.
One of the first things parents notice as they tour Rivendell is that children of different ages are learning and socializing together happily, within each classroom. Our multi-age classrooms help create a strong feeling of family that we all love at Rivendell, and they also do a lot more to benefit our children.
