Hello All,

I am writing to share good news that we have received from the International Baccalaureate Organization and the Klingenstein Center at Columbia University.

MYP Report

As you may recall, in November of 2013, the school hosted a visiting team of Middle Years Programme (MYP) professionals who evaluated the manner in which Riverstone is implementing the MYP in Grades  6-10. This process ensures that we meet the standards and expectations of the IBO with respect to our curriculum, our staff training, and students' experience in the MYP, among others. We received their formal report last week.

The team was so impressed with the caliber of our MYP that they concluded, "No matters to be addressed," which translates to the highest accolade in the IB arena. Typically, schools are asked to make changes to their practices or review aspects of their curriculum prior to receiving formal authorization, so this report is exceptional and affirms the strength of the MYP at Riverstone.

This outstanding report comes on the heels of our recent Primary Years Programme (PYP) re-authorization and last year's Diploma Programme (DP) re-authorization.

Please congratulate our staff, all of whom contribute to Riverstone's growth and success every day. These external validations require a great deal of preparation and reflection, and provide valuable feedback that we use to improve every year as we strive to make each year better than the last.

Fellowship from Klingenstein Center

I am humbled and honored to have been awarded a fully-funded fellowship to the Klingenstein Center for Independent School Leadership at Columbia University. I will be joining other heads of school from around the world to examine educational issues and policies facing independent school educators for an intense two-week period.

Only 20 heads of school are selected each year, and the award provides independent school leaders with an opportunity for focused professional enrichment, renewal, and reflection.

My cohort includes heads of school from all areas of the United States, in addition to participants from Aruba, Canada, China, Germany, the Netherlands, and Sudan. I am appreciative of this opportunity to learn and return with valuable skills and perspective on leading Riverstone as we continue to focus on sustainability and excellence.

I will be away from Riverstone from January 23 - February 9, 2014 while attending the Klingenstein Center. During this time, the school will be in the capable hands of our directors. Please use the normal channels of communications when you need clarification or answers to questions.

• For business matters, please contact Kevin Richmond, Business Director.
• For Elementary School matters, please contact James Hamilton-Vail, Director of Elementary Education.
• For Middle and High School matters, please contact Alex Ide, Director of Secondary Education.
• For Outdoor Education matters, please contact Ben Brock, Director of Outdoor Education.
• For admissions or re-enrollment matters, please contact Rachel Pusch, Director of Admissions and Institutional Advancement.

Thank you for your continued support.

Please call for anything,