Since 2000, The River School has been dedicated to nurturing children 18 months through Grade 3 with its premier, personalized education.
In 2022, River launched an Upper Elementary Program, with Grades 4-6 offered in Fall 2024, featuring project-based, inquiry-driven immersive learning experiences.
The school`s one-of-a-kind inclusion model pairs a master`s level educator and a speech-language pathologist in each classroom, and focuses on language, literacy and personal and social development.
Classroom practice emphasizes experiential and collaborative learning, using thematic curriculum to seamlessly integrate Literacy, Math, Social Studies, Science, Drama, Music, Visual Arts, PE and Creative Movement. Student-Teacher Ratio: 5:1
Quick Stats (2024)
- Top Ranked DC School
- School Type: Alternative School
- Grades: Nursery/Preschool-5
- Enrollment: 246 students
- Yearly Tuition: $28,575
- Acceptance rate: 68%
- Average class size: 14 students
- Application Deadline: Jan. 12 / rolling
- Source: Verified school update
Top Rankings
The River School ranks among the top 20% of private schools in District Of Columbia for:
Category
Attribute
Advanced Degrees
School Overview
School Type
Religious Affiliation
Grades Offered
Grades Nursery/Preschool-5
ADD/ADHD Support
Yes
Year Founded
1999
Student Body
Total Students
246 students
Student Body Type
Co-ed
% Students of Color
25%
State avg.: 45%
Students by Grade
Academics and Faculty
Total Classroom Teachers
43 teachers
Student : Teacher Ratio
6:1
National avg.: 13:1
% Faculty w/Advanced Degree
95%
Average Class Size
14 students
Classroom Dress Code
Casual
Tuition and Acceptance Rate
Admission Deadline
Jan. 12 / rolling
Yearly Tuition Cost
$28,575
Tuition Notes
Tuition ranges from $14,015 (preschool, 2 mornings) to $42,525 (K-Grade 5)
% on Financial Aid
25%
Acceptance Rate
68%
National avg.: 85%
Admissions Director
Megan Campbell
Admissions Associate
Lenka Folger
Endowment Size
$3.5 million
Sports
Total Sports Offered
3 sports
Sports
Extracurriculars
Total ExtracurricularsTotal Extra-curric.
8 extracurriculars
ExtracurricularsExtra-curric.
Arts and Music Programs:
Chess, Cooking, Destination Imagination (STEAM), Lego Robotics, River Art, Spanish with Language Stars, Textiles, Tinkering
Chess, Cooking, Destination Imagination (STEAM), Lego Robotics, River Art, Spanish with Language Stars, Textiles, Tinkering
School Notes
- Since 2000, The River School has been dedicated to nurturing children 18 months through Grade 3 with its premier, personalized education.
- In 2022, River launched an Upper Elementary Program, with Grades 4-6 offered in Fall 2024, featuringproject-based, inquiry-driven immersive learning experiences.The school`s one-of-a-kind inclusion model pairs a master`s level educator and a speech-language pathologist in each classroom, and focuses on language, literacy and personal and social development.
- Classroom practice emphasizes experiential and collaborative learning, using thematic curriculum to seamlessly integrate Literacy, Math, Social Studies, Science, Drama, Music, Visual Arts, PE and Creative Movement.
- Student-Teacher Ratio: 5:1
- The River School`s unique inclusion program is internationally acclaimed. Most students (85% or more) are children with normal hearing; each classroom includes a few children with hearing loss who use cochlear implants or hearing aids. The teaching team supports all of the children in the classroom, with every student greatly benefiting from the rich educational experience.
- A River graduate can think critically, engage in meaningful inquiry, solve problems and persevere through academic and social challenges, collaborate and communicate effectively, exhibit strong reading, writing and math skills, and be a kind, respectful change agent.
- The River School is located in northwest Washington DC, west of Georgetown and convenient to the Maryland and Virginia suburbs. It offers the advantages of a neighborhood setting with a public library, restaurants parks nearby.
Source: Verified school update
Frequently Asked Questions
How much does The River School cost?
The River School's tuition is approximately $28,575 for private students.
What is the acceptance rate of The River School?
The acceptance rate of The River School is 68%, which is higher than the national average of 61%.
What sports does The River School offer?
The River School offers 3 interscholastic sports: Basketball, Soccer and Track and Field.
What is The River School's ranking?
The River School ranks among the top 20% of private schools in District Of Columbia for: Highest percentage of faculty with advanced degrees.
When is the application deadline for The River School?
The application deadline for The River School is Jan. 12 / rolling (applications are due on Jan. 12 but additional applications are reviewed year-round as space permits ).
In what neighborhood is The River School located?
The River School is located in the Northwest Washington neighborhood of Washington, DC. There are 61 other private schools located in Northwest Washington.
School Reviews
Endorse The River School. Endorsements should be a few sentences in length. Please include any comments on:
- Quality of academic programs, teachers, and facilities
- Availability of music, art, sports and other extracurricular activities
- Academic or athletic awards
Recent Articles
Filling Your Seats
This article provides valuable insights for marketing staff at small private schools, focusing on strategies to boost enrollment and retention. It addresses common challenges such as budget constraints, resistance to change, and the need for both short-term and long-term planning. With expert advice and real-world examples, this guide is essential for any school looking to thrive in a competitive educational landscape.
Early Childhood Education: Which Approach to Choose?
Explore the world of early childhood education with our comprehensive guide to Montessori, Waldorf, and Reggio Emilia approaches. Learn the key principles, benefits, and practical considerations of each method to make an informed decision for your 2-3 year old's educational journey.
Your 10-Step Guide to Choosing a Private School
Selecting the best private school for your child is a significant decision that requires careful consideration and research. Our "10 Step Guide for Choosing a Private School" provides a detailed roadmap to help parents navigate this complex process. This guide covers everything from assessing your child's unique needs and researching potential schools to evaluating academic programs and exploring financial aid options. Whether you're looking for a school that offers PK-12 or just high school grades, this guide will equip you with the knowledge and tools to make the best choice for your child's education.