Smiths Mill

"Best Boarding School in the Nation" is how my son put it after he graduated and was asked a few months later about it by a cousin of mine whose daughter is now a residential student there and doing great. My son's social and language disabilities have improved significantly. He is much more independent that I ever thought he would be. Students live at Riverview but can call home daily and with modern technology can keep in touch on-line. Riverview has informed us regarding his triumphs and his missteps. They have viewed all of his mistakes as "teachable moments". They scaffold the learning, so he faces challenges that do not overload his stress capacity. In this way, he can function without a huge amount of anxiety. The staff also helps with socialization as well as academics. When we first came to Riverview, our family was completely centered around him. He now helps plan vacations, cleans the house, calls relatives to stay in touch, and takes care of his own priorities and possessions. Riverview has a plan for their own growth (i.e. vocational programs, employee benefits, and infrastructure) which in turn, is instrumental in the growth of their students. Riverview has helped him move out of his comfort zone and move into a learning zone. We can't thank them enough!The school has incredible teachers and a wonderful environment. Nurturing, caring and people who understand what people need emotionally and socially.

I’ve had nothing but bad experiences since the school year started. Many staff members lack respect, accountability, and boundaries. During morning drop-off, I repeatedly asked a teacher (dressed as Daphne) not to pull on my car door. After asking five times, she yelled “OMG OKAY,” and later told another teacher — in front of me — that I yelled at her, which was completely untrue and unprofessional.I’ve also dealt with teachers who don’t take my child’s education seriously, canceling meetings without rescheduling as if they hope I’ll forget. The lack of communication and respect here is extremely disappointing. Parents deserve professionalism and honesty from school staff.