We put together some of our most asked questions in this list. If you have a question that you aren’t finding here or elsewhere on our website, please send us an email and we’ll be glad to help!
What is it really like to attend Riverstone International School?
Each year, a member of the senior class has the opportunity to speak to the Riverstone community, including students, staff, parents, grandparents, and friends, during our first day of school Convocation. In 2015, senior Cat C shared her personal story. Her words are a powerful testament to the impact of attending Riverstone. Listen to Cat’s speech here.
We find the best way for parents and students to understand what we’re all about and how Riverstone can benefit your family is to visit us in person. Please join us for an open house or inquire about more information!
Why do parents choose Riverstone International School?
There are many reasons why parents choose to invest in their child’s education at Riverstone International School. Every student and every family has a unique perspective. Here are the reasons parents say they choose Riverstone:
- Challenging and engaging academics
- Small classes and personal attention
- Excellent teaching staff
- International classmates and international focus
- Outdoor education
- Culture of excellence and innovation
What kind of school is Riverstone?
Riverstone is an independent day school, which serves approximately 400 students in preschool through grade 12. Our mission is to inspire courageous journeys of academic and personal exploration that enable our students to lead purposeful lives.
What does being an independent school mean?
Independent schools define their own missions, are financially autonomous, and are governed by an independent Board of Trustees.
Typically, independent schools are known for having small classes, a culture built on the importance of knowing students well and nurturing their academic and personal development, passionate educators, and a commitment to inclusiveness and diversity. Independent schools like Riverstone are supported through tuition, annual gifts, charitable contributions, and endowment income.
Riverstone is a member of the Northwest Association of Independent School and National Association of Independent Schools.
How many students attend Riverstone?
Approximately 400 students attend Riverstone International School from preschool through high school. We believe that as a small school we can best meet our mission and the needs of our students.
How many students are in each class?
One of the keys to having engaging academics and strong student-teacher relationships is the personal attention that only a small class with an outstanding teacher can provide. Riverstone enrolls students each year in all grades, preschool–grade 12. We use the following guidelines for class sizes:
- Elementary School: Preschool, Pre-K and Kindergarten: max of 16 students; Grade 1-5: max of 20 students.
- Middle and High School: For grades 6–12, we allow a maximum of 20 students per class.
- When students enter the Diploma Programme (DP), classes are even smaller as Riverstone offers more DP courses than any other school in the area.
Does Riverstone offer scholarships or tuition assistance?
Yes! We strive to make Riverstone as accessible to families as possible and about 25% of our students receive tuition assistance. Additionally, new students applying for admission to grades 7–9 who are U.S. citizens may apply for Malone Family Foundation Scholarships. Most importantly, tuition assistance and scholarships do not need to be repaid. Please read more about scholarships and tuition assistance.
What time do students attend class, Monday–Friday?
8:30 AM—3:15 PM Preschool—Pre-K
8:30 AM—3:20 PM Kindergarten—Grade 2
8:30 AM—3:25 PM Grades 3—5
8:20 AM—3:20 PM Grades 6—8
8:20 AM—3:05 PM Grades 9—12
Wednesday Early Release
All grades: 2:15 PM
Does Riverstone offer before- or after-school care?
Yes, we offer before-school care starting at 7:30 AM and after-school care until 6:00 PM, in addition to student activities.
Where are the majority of your students from?
The majority of Riverstone’s students come from the Treasure Valley; however, the school also has a growing population of students from other countries. The school actively recruits both locally and internationally.
Do you have sports teams?
Yes, we have athletic teams in our Middle and High Schools for volleyball, basketball, soccer, swimming, cross country and track. If we do not have offer a sport at Riverstone, students may contact their local public school regarding joining or trying out for their teams.
Do Riverstone students wear uniforms?
No, Riverstone students do not wear uniforms. However, as an International Baccalaureate World School, Riverstone places a high level of importance on international understanding and cultural sensitivity. Students and staff should dress in a respectful manner that would not be considered offensive to other members of the community.
How do I obtain academic records or transcripts?
To request academic records or transcripts, please fill out an Academic Records Request Form. Please note that the student account must be paid in full in order for the school to release them to another institution.
Please allow 5 business days to process your request and keep in mind that we are closed for school holidays and breaks.