Running River School

"We moved to Boulder Valley specifically so our daughter could attend Running River School. We were impressed by its child-centric, individualized and interdisciplinary learning approach, its emphasis on nature, its focus on the whole child, and the low student to teacher ratio. Now in our second year at the school, we can confidently say that it has lived up to our expectations. Our daughter is thriving at the school, and we especially appreciate the ability of the school to meet every child where he or she is, to make them feel confident in themselves, and to engage them in learning."

"After thoroughly scouring the entire Front Range, Running River is simply the most amazing school we found. They use a multi-faceted approach to teaching; immersive for most subjects supported by small amounts of rote training as necessary. The exceptional student:teacher ratio, with very individualized learning is what allows this. But the primary reason our two sons are learning and extremely happy here is the sense of acceptance throughout the school, both with teachers and all of the other students. There is time for movement and becoming personally aware that creates great confidence. Prior to coming here our sons were at best neutral, usually very negative, about attending school. Now they are thriving, engaged learners that are honestly excited to be in school every day. It truly surpasses our expectations."

"Running River has been a great experience for my two kids. The two most important things I feel a good education needs are academics in a small environment which allows for more child directed learning, and the social emotional piece. With the academics at Running River they are really able to live in a subject and make it a part of the children's lives rather then the old method of memorize and forget. The social emotion aspect is always being addressed, from helping the children to learn mindfulness and how to slow down, to helping them with their relationships with children. Finally, Running River is always trying to improve, looking at progressive ideas and continually evolving to improve the way they teach."

"Running River School is an amazing school where children feel positive about their learning and themselves. My three children attended Running River last year (and the year prior) and did not want the school year to end because they looked forward to each and every day at Running River. Running River provided them the academics they needed plus the space to learn what they were passionate about and the opportunity to be still be happy kids! My son, a 6th grader, grew to love nature photography. His teachers gave him opportunities to explore photography on the weekly hikes and school trips and to write about and share his photos. He learned skills that will take him beyond Running River into adulthood. My daughter, a 5th grader, learned to love dance and had the time and space after school to pursue her passion. She was not bogged down by hours of homework or the stress and demands typical of a traditional school. My youngest was in the K-1 class last year and loved the opportunities to learn through play. The daily mid-day open time (recess) provides a chance for the kids to learn to collaborate, cooperate, imagine, and communicate with their peers but also with the kids in all the grades. The mixed-age classrooms give the chance for the younger kids to learn from the older kids and the older kids to be mentors, in turn, boosting their confidence. The time in nature has taught them to appreciate the world around them but also themselves. Running River School has truly been a gift in our lives."

"Running River is truly exceptional both in their love for children & developmental growth but also really meeting the child where they are. Our beautiful & enthusiastic daughter struggled to read at the beginning of the year. She was frustrated and feeling like she would never be able to keep up with her friends. Because the teachers take the time to know each child, find their strengths and even know when to just give the child a little more time to grow our daughter went from reading at a preschool level to being right at grade level!! Without their attention to detail, use of experiential learning & working so closely with each student our daughter would have lost her love of learning. We want her to grow up knowing who she is, what she wants & where she is going. At Running River she will! The community really is a group of amazing parents on similar paths. As a parent you really feel the support of parents who love their children & support each other."