St Benedict Elementary Inc.

As long term resident of Natick, I fully supported my daughter and my son in our public school system which they attended from K-12. Our schools have only improved over time, as one can learn by reviewing the ranking lists of Boston area High Schools. Both of my children excelled in the Natick Schools and were prepared to be accepted, and thrive in Ivy League colleges. They established strong friendships, joined the Speech Team, French Club and Tennis Teams. Now after graduation, they have wonderful connections to the Town and many friends that they stay in touch with from their High School days. There was something for all students at the school, and I found that the administration would allow and accept credit for advanced outside courses. Overall, the public schools in the Boston area are the best in the country. I feel that Natick High School is no acception.The parents, students and school system all have a hand in the students' education.

I attended Riverbend from 4th through 8th grade, and it shaped me in ways I still draw on today.In the classroom, Riverbend taught me that people learn differently and at different paces. Teachers met me where I was, showed me that learning can be fun, and taught me how to ask good questions and connect my own interests to the work. As a kid with ADHD, that was transformational.Outside the classroom, it gave me real chances to lead: a Model UN trip to NYC, a major research project in 6th grade, and the responsibility of leading younger students on trips to the library and the farm and at events like Fall Festival. That confidence carried into everything that came after.Socially, it was where I found my footing. The community is small enough that you are known, and warm enough that being known is a good thing.If you want a school that teaches your child how to think, how to lead, and how to be themselves, Riverbend is worth a visit.

As a Black family, we approached independent school selection with real caution and Riverbend has proven itself, again and again, an exceptional choice. Every facet of our daughter’s identity (which is much more than the color of her skin) is not just accepted here; it is nurtured, celebrated, and actively protected by teachers and administrators alike. That kind of intentional care is rare, and it has made all the difference.Academically and socially, she is thriving. She has built genuine, lasting friendships with classmates who see her fully. The curriculum is enriched by multiple perspectives rather than a single narrow lens, and experiences like outdoor, nature-based learning are just one example of the thoughtful, distinctive programming Riverbend offers its students. What stands out most to us is the community Riverbend has built the trust and partnership between families and staff. No institution is without its challenges, but what sets Riverbend apart is how its leadership responds: with openness to feedback, genuine willingness to meet parents and students where they are, and unwavering commitment to helping every child grow into a thoughtful, capable, and engaged citizen.We tell every family we know, there is no other school we would choose for our daughter than Riverbend.

I’ve worked in several schools, but what stands out here is the passion. Students are ambitious, parents are engaged, and the faculty team is dedicated. The culture is about growth — for students and for teachers. It’s inspiring to be part of a place that is building something unique.