In the High School, we strive to bring our mission to life for our Grade 9 through 12 students so that they have the academic skills and the social-emotional skills needed for success in college or whichever path they choose in life. By providing a nurturing environment where each student is known and appreciated for who they are as an individual, we help them develop independence, a willingness to take action, an ability to reflect upon their own learning, and gain an appreciation for others.
Letter from Stacey Walker, HS Director
Small classes and caring, experienced staff make all the difference
During their High School years, our students are in the final stages of preparing for the next steps and the independence and strong sense of self that their journeys will require. We have made a very deliberate choice to keep our classes small so that each student will receive individual attention and have the opportunity to be exceptionally well-known by their teachers. These nurturing relationships are critical to helping students gain confidence as they explore new topics, connect classroom learning to the real world, and tackle challenges big and small. Our teachers are the people who will inspire your student’s willingness to be courageous – whether it’s designing their own biology experiment, having a 10-minute conversation with their teacher in Spanish, teaching younger students how to choose a campsite, or raising a hand and defending an opinion. It all takes courage.
In the High School, students are finishing the final year of the International Baccalaureate Middle Years Programme and moving into the Diploma Programme. Their teachers are all subject area specialists and have IB training. Many of these teachers are accomplished in other facets of their life, bringing those talents and life experiences into the classrooms.
By keeping our class size small, our teachers can plan more engaging and challenging activities for students that focus on critical thinking and application of new knowledge that requires more grading time and more feedback than traditional test taking. We also take advantage of special teaching opportunities that arise, such as attending community presentations or concerts. Students dive into projects that develop students’ skills in independent research, collaboration, creativity, and critical thinking.
We are the first school in Idaho to offer the IB Diploma Programme. We are committed to ensuring that we meet the true philosophy of the Middle Years Programme, which is a challenging framework that encourages students to make practical connections between their studies and the real world.” The Diploma Programme “aims to develop students who have excellent breadth and depth of knowledge – students who flourish physically, intellectually, emotionally and ethically.” Each year, our teachers and administration reflect upon and refine our curriculum to ensure we are meeting the needs of students. Just as our world and our students are ever-evolving, our teaching practices evolve.
Five pillars create pathways to exploration
We believe that a well-rounded education leads to a well-rounded individual, ready to take advantage of opportunities in a changing world. The five pillars at Riverstone become the pathways that our students develop their academic and personal skills, as well as connect classroom learning to the greater world: Academic Excellence, Community and Service, Leadership by Example, International Understanding, and Outdoor Education.
The five pillars are integrated into the education our students experience and lie at the heart of who we are as an organization. Please read more by perusing the tabs for each pillar so that you can see how your child will be prepared for life following high school.
Building community and connections
The transition to High School can be both exhilarating and unnerving for students as the academic challenges increase and they look forward to college applications and graduation. Students are part of multi-age River Camp Advisory groups that build tradition through fun competitions throughout the year, plan social events, and join athletic and academic teams. Our local students are joined by students from around the world, sitting alongside of them in classrooms as they all seek success in the IB Diploma Programme. Our college counseling program helps students and parents navigate the college application process.
Explore the High School
We invite you to explore our High School through our website.
Of course, there’s nothing that compares to seeing our students and staff in action. We invite you to attend an open house or inquire about more information or a personal tour.