Cypress

Riverbend Montessori provides a very well-balanced curriculum that emphasizes math, reading/grammar/literary analysis, cultural studies and fine arts. We left the public school system after the 4th grade and witnessed an immediate change in our son. I thought Montessori was a laissez-faire approach to learning but that is not the case at Riverbend. The curriculum is structured in terms of content but flexible with how each student learns. The classrooms are mixed grade levels but the students operate at their own pace. Some are more advanced in math whereas others are not. The teachers are very much in tune with the students' academic, emotional and social developments. Learning is very tactile, utilizing tools (beads, boards, etc.) to reinforce understanding, not just memorizing. Homework is assigned with a purpose; incorrect math problems must be corrected to ensure mastery of the topics. Books are read and literary analyses are performed to understand setting, plot, theme and characters. Laptops are used for research but very much controlled and monitored. Field trips are common in order to reinforce their curriculum. Creativity is another strong point of this school. They have an annual play where all students have a role and creative writing when students present to parents. Elementary-aged students learn instruments (ukeleles, kalimbas) and recreate famous masterpieces (Van Gogh, Vermeer, Warhol, etc.). The culmination of all the hard work is on display at their end-of-year Art Festival where students showcase their art and perform musical ensembles.The teachers are nothing short of incredible; they are vested and believe in their students. They spend extra time with students and manage all field trips, including overnight ones. They encourage natural curiosity; champion building responsibility and accountability through hard work and perseverance; allow students to learn from their mistakes; and encourage them to advocate for themselves. After two years with this amazing school, we see a much more confident and mature child who is ready to take on new challenges. My only regret with Riverbend is not enrolling sooner. If you are looking for a school that will develop your child your child's love of learning, critical thinking skills and sense of responsibility, this is the school. If you want a babysitter, please look elsewhere.

My daughter attended THRS for two years starting in Grade 7 and my son has been there for almost four years now starting in Grade 5. We love THRS! It’s wonderful that the same school has served the needs of my two very different kids well. My one child is an introvert and loves the arts and playing in the band. The other is a self starter, loves sports and all kinds of extracurricular opportunities. My children have participated in the band, the play, broadcasting, journalism, NHS and have gone on trips to DC and Boston with the school. The coaches for basketball and track are wonderful and have been a great influence on my son. My daughter is a 10th grader now at a private high school. THRS has prepared her very well for the rigors of high school. She’s in advanced classes and getting good grades in them. Last but not least, the small school environment has provided my kids with great attention and a family-like environment. All the teachers know them very well. The administration is knowledgeable and approachable and has given me invaluable advice on parenting and high school preparedness. I have no reservation in recommending this school.