Rivers Shines Bright on Curriculum Night

Director of Enrollment Management Yassine Talhaoui opened the event by welcoming more than 200 registered families, who enjoyed refreshments and conversation in Kraft Dining Hall before the speaking program began. 

Head of School Ryan S. Dahlem talked to families about the busy season for college counseling and shared what Dave Lyons, director of college counseling, pinpointed as the quality that makes our students stand out. In a word, he said, it’s humanness. “We have very smart students who are able to wrestle with complexity, possess intellectual vitality, and are problem solvers. And…they’re empathetic, kind, and authentic. It’s their humanness that stands out.” Dahlem underscored that we want students at the end of their time at Rivers to emerge as whole, good humans, first and foremost.  

Rivers students truly shined during curriculum night, welcoming guests, answering questions, and deepening attendees’ understanding of the value of a Rivers education. Those on the panels expressed how their learning goes beyond surface level, embracing complexity and nuance. Students spoke with confidence about developing independence and problem-solving skills, and their voices made it clear that the Rivers academic experience is shaping thoughtful, capable, and curious leaders and learners. 

Head of Middle School John Bower alluded to the strong collaboration between divisions, creating a seamless progression through Rivers. Middle School teachers are laying the foundation for the analytical skills, global perspectives, complexity of thought, and communication abilities that will serve them well in Upper School and beyond. “I’m fortunate to partner regularly with Melissa Anderson, our head of Upper School,” said Bower, “to ensure that students’ Middle School experiences not only prepare them academically but also help them connect their learning to the world around them.”

From the Upper School perspective, Anderson said that the goal is to marry a powerful core curriculum with deep applied learning experiences, in a schedule with enough breathing room for students to be able to tackle it all—and even find joy in it. For instance, she said, Grade 9 language courses can broaden the habits of mind for the students to really get a lot out of Rivers’ travel opportunities or  interdisciplinary Spanish V course. “It’s not a coincidence,” she continued, “that our Grade 11 U.S. in the World course revisits the major themes of the Grade 9 Perspectives in World History. Our signature programs are meant to provide applied, experiential learning opportunities in which students can leverage the skills, knowledge, and habits of mind they’ve been building since early on.”

As Anderson concluded, “Our job is to light up your kids. Our students who are ready for the most complex high school learning experiences are stretched here. Our students who need support—perhaps even just at first, developing academic skills and the habits of lifelong learning—get plenty of it,” she said. “All of them are leaving with a great sense of purpose and energy to burn.”

What’s next: Applications are due by January 15. To apply, visit your account in Ravenna.