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|  | Philosophy
Rivers is a school that strives for balance and, in doing so, maximizes the potential of its young people as students, as athletes, as artists, and, most importantly, as human beings. Both the Middle and Upper Schools foster the enthusiastic pursuit of excellence in a caring community where students are given the freedom, the responsibility, and the opportunities to explore new interests, test themselves, discover their talents, and gain self-knowledge.
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| The Upper School is a dynamic, challenging academic community that inspires students to pursue excellence. Its rigorous program includes extensive honors and AP courses, comprehensive survey courses, and a rich array of elective opportunities. Our faculty helps develop students who can think analytically and critically, write logically and incisively, and speak responsibly and convincingly. Risk-taking and creativity are also central components of the Rivers experience.
Throughout our program, students learn the skills and competencies necessary for successful, meaningful lives in the 21st century. Environmental science, ethics, Mandarin and world history courses are some of the many settings where students explore what it means to be a global citizen. A newly created Interdisciplinary Studies Department with courses such as The Enlightenment, Adaptations and Interpretations, and Dante's Divine Comedy, challenge students to make connections across the disciplines. Through required visual and performing arts classes, students develop a creative vision and explore new areas of interest. In addition, faculty members are engaged in ongoing research and dialogue about how best to educate students for a rapidly changing world.
During junior and senior years, students are encouraged to create a schedule that best reflects their interests, expertise, and passions. Each senior also presents a speech to the entire community on a topic of personal significance. As a culminating experience to their high school careers, seniors design a project that allows them to pursue a passion and transition to life beyond Rivers.
Rivers Upper School teachers believe that learning takes place best in the context of supportive relationships. Most classroom teachers are advisors and serve in other capacities around campus. Through these close relationships, adults encourage students to participate actively in their own learning and to reach their full potential in academic and co-curricular endeavors. Academic classes and co-curricular programs also emphasize leadership skills, where students are called to be their best selves and to positively influence others.
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