Our children are in their sixth year attending RVS. In addition to the school curriculum, they have attended the integrated before and after school care and participated in the summer care program. We were referred to the school by friends and it was convenient during our relocation to a nearby neighbourhood. We weren’t necessarily committed to staying at the school long-term, but the character of the institution, small class sizes, thoughtful programming and genuine staff convinced us that the education offered by the school is notably superior to most other available options. The school has undergone significant changes since our enrolment, from the facility arrangement to the programming to the leadership. Granted, RVS is relatively young, but it has evolved immensely in the past few years to establish a clear identity and future vision, with strong leadership at the helm. The school prides itself on fostering contributive, well-rounded members of society who think critically, are inquisitive, and generally strive to improve the world around them. Bold words, perhaps, but this school is developing future leaders. We feel that RVS is setting our children up to be successful in life, regardless of the path they choose. No educational institution is perfect. Under previous leadership and ill-suited instruction, one of our children struggled behaviourally. During this period we did not feel supported by the school, nor that the needs of our child was its priority. This very nearly led to our departure from RVS. However, through changes to leadership and staff, the school has addressed the root cause of our concerns. The current leadership and staff are generally excellent and are appropriately aligned with the school priorities and objectives, with the best interests of the students at the forefront. It is not inexpensive to have our children attend this school, but we are fortunate to be in a position where it is an option for us. We have decided to prioritize their development with confidence that the future returns will be well worth the investment. We highly recommend that those evaluating the educational options for their children in the Calgary area strongly consider RVS as a top candidate.

Our family has been involved with River Valley School for the past 3 years and it has been an exceptional experience. When we were first exploring options for kindergarten and elementary school we were looking for a place that would offer small class sizes, a positive learning focus and an environment that would let children be who they are academically and creatively. Besides meeting all our original goals River Valley has offered more than we ever expected. It is a space where every child is warmly welcomed each and everyday. It is a learning environment that is innovative and full of wonder. It is a structure that is flexible and adaptive to meeting the learning needs of individual students. It is a community that is supportive, safe and deeply caring. Choosing River Valley has been the best decision we could have made regarding education and we know will provide for a solid foundation in the years ahead. Do yourself a favour and have a tour of River Valley School - I know you will come away feeling “This is where my child belongs!”

River Valley Elementary School is a private school located in Bowness, Calgary, AB. Beautifully located along the shore of the Elbow River, the motto is "Wonder Lives Here". Well, more than just wonder resides at River Valley. I moved my daughter there for grade 5, and I regret not moving her sooner. The class sizes are small, the teachers and support staff are checked in and passionate. Children are free to be inquisitive, curious and supportive of each other. I felt like the school really "got" my girl. Her favorite teacher EVER, is from River Valley. She recently lamented that she's sad she's out grown River Valley. She was given a wonderful educational foundation to build on and I am grateful to all the staff at River Valley for giving her such a positive experience. Carolyn Breland is an amazing Head of School and if you're considering River Valley, please do. You won't be sorry.

The River Valley School is an amazing place! My kids were enrolled in the CBE system and the kids were coming home bored, they were not learning basic writing and arithmetic skills and they did not want to go to school. Troubled by this, my wife and I set out to find another alternative. We looked a long time because we wanted a school that would get our kids excited to learn again. We also wanted a place that was diverse, felt warm and welcoming and had high academic standards. River Valley School is just such a place. The teachers are simply amazing! The student to teacher ratio is very low (teacher and an assistant in every class) and the school encourages children from all walks of life and backgrounds. River Valley helped our kids reach a very high academic level and best of all.... My kids looked forward to going to school each and every day!

River Valley is an absolutely lovely school! What drew us here initially was the all day kindergarten and before/after school care. We wanted our child to have a predictable routine and not be be shuffled from one place to the next every day. The class sizes are small and almost every grade has an extra aide in the class for additional support/attention. The curriculum is robust and supports various learning styles and needs. Additionally, the program is well rounded with classes dedicated to the arts, French and physical and outdoor education. The student body is diverse and culture is explored and celebrated in school. If you’re looking for a smaller school with a supportive community feel, I suggest contacting RVS to book a tour; you won’t be disappointed!

River Valley is everything we were looking for in an elementary school. Children are greeted at the door every morning with smiles from staff and teachers who not only their name, but know who they each are as a person. Abundant consideration is given to social emotional guidance and growth, keeping in mind the setbacks many children experienced as a result of the pandemic. Teachers at RVS combine compassion, patience and respect for childhood with an academic focus that challenges students to expand their mindset and find joy in learning. To top it all off, since joining the RVS community, we have faced zero resistance when it comes to getting out the door in the morning. If that isn't some kind of educational magic, I don't know what is.

I brought my kids to River Valley because I was looking for a place that would empower my kids to dream big and to look at the world not as it is, but as it could be. "Wonder lives here" is a beautiful sentiment but does River Valley truly embody that? The answer is yes, in everything they do. We now have three kids at River Valley and I am nothing but continually surprised and delighted at their creativity, dedication and ability to bring out the best in my kids. But that's my point of view. From my kids' point of view, they love it. Today was "bring your stuffy" day and my 4 year old was in the truck ready to go before he was even dressed. Does Wonder live at River Valley? Every day.

Our kids thoroughly enjoy attending River Valley School! They are very fond of the faculty and staff, who are truly caring, dedicated and passionate. They nurture a positive teacher-student relationship, making the children feel welcomed, special and valued. I believe this is why our kids are empowered to push their boundaries and explore outside their comfort-zones. I appreciate how the school has ample leadership opportunities starting at a young age. There are various student clubs and sport teams available, sparking curiosity while promoting a well-rounded being. Overall, the school fosters a strong sense of community and a love for learning.

This school is such a gem. Love the smaller student to teacher ratio. It allows for teachers to have that much more time getting to know each student’s strengths while allowing for individualized approach to learning. The patience and ability to see each child as a whole person, not just whether they are fitting into the prescribed “box” of a classroom, is such a welcome change to other schools’ philosophies. For the first time, I felt like the teachers actually “got” my kids and how to help them reach their potential. My only regret is not finding this school earlier. Wish the school went up to Grade 8!

We have been so fortunate to find such a great community in RIver Valley School. From the administration to the teachers to all the support staff, the care for our sons and their learning has been extraordinary. We have especially appreciated the great teacher:student ratio and the individualized attention our sons received. We’ve also loved the specialist classes (French, drama, music, art), which have given our sons a well-rounded education. We are absolutely confident we chose the right school with RVS!

River Valley School has been such a blessing for our family. Finding a school that has such strong academics, while placing equal emphasis on kindness and confidence has been transformative for our children. This is a community where your child is celebrated, and the experience of learning is exciting and magical. The school's moto, "Wonder Lives Here", is brought to life every day! And when your child is not in class, they are exploring the beautiful school campus and playground, right on the river!

I only have good things to say about River Valley. Attentive staff, small class sizes, their handling of the pandemic has gone above and beyond provincial requirements, fun learning environment to get the littles excited to learn. My grade 1 son recently declared "science is the best". Every day he comes home with an excited "did you know...?". He also attends Kids Club before and after school and I am really impressed with that programming as well. Highly recommend to anyone considering.

We initially enrolled as they had a full day junior kindergarten and senior kindergarten program. It's hard to describe the numerous reasons we are still there in Grade 2. The low student to teacher ratio, the amazing programming, the great specialty teachers (gym, music, French etc), the access they have to technology, the amount of time they spend outside and just the great support system they provide are just to name a few. If you have the money it's is well worth it!!!!

I am beyond delighted with my experience at this school. It truly feels like a warm hug every time I drop off my kids. The atmosphere is filled with love and respect from everyone. Witnessing my children's remarkable academic growth in such a short time brings me immense joy. I can't express enough how thankful I am that my kids are in an environment where they can truly thrive. This school has exceeded my expectations, and I couldn't be happier!!!

Beautiful, beautiful school -- as with any organization, it is only as good as the administrators in charge. In this respect, River Valley shines above all others, as a rare seashell in a sea of shells for its Principal not only encourages excellence in her staff and students, but leads the way with extraordinary kindness, wedding academics with fine character. Register today. You will not be disappointed.

We transitioned to River Valley from a private school in The US in 2020 when Covid was on the rise. They were going into grade 3 and 5. With a warm welcome and nurturing environment, my kids thrived rather quickly. We hadn't lived in Canada for awhile, so I was concerned about their transition. Happy children are a key to success, and I see that each day at pickup.

River Valley is the most amazing learning community. Our three, very different children, have each flourished while at RVS. I encourage any family looking for a nurturing, enriching and welcoming learning environment for their children to visit RVS. They truly are setting students up for success, guiding them to become empathetic, confident and passionate leaders.

My son is in grade 2 and he has loved this school from day 1. The staff really do care about each and every kid, and go above and beyond to meet the students and parents needs. It’s not only a great academic school, but they also teach the students about how to be a good well rounded person. I would recommend this school to anyone I know!!

River Valley is such a warm and welcoming school! All the staff have been so friendly and supportive. This school is well rounded with a good mix of academic, physical/outdoor time, free play, music, art, and French. I believe this is a school where kids can be kids and safe to be themselves! We love it! Thank you RVS!

My children have been attending this school for 2 years now and absolutely LOVE it. We were so lucky to have been recommended this place via a friend when we moved to Calgary. The teachers are kind and caring, passionate about seeing the children succeed and the academic program is great.

An exceptional program for early learners. Amazing staff, teachers and support that always go the extra mile. Have especially been impressed with how they have managed and continued to keep learning top notch during a pandemic. Could not imagine going anywhere else.

I can't say enough good things about teachers, staff and the parent community at River Valley School. My kids have been going here since Pre-JK and every time I interact with anyone from the community it makes me wish I went to a school like this when I was a kid!

I don’t know how to express my thanks to RVS, my son studied in RVS one year for Junior K, my son always told me “in school, Ms.Robinson is my mom”. Teachers so warm, patient, I am so appreciate everything of the school. Thank you.

An absolutely amazing school, we couldn't think of a better place for our son! Small class sizes, amazing staff, the specialized programming and supports, and a beautiful campus... what's not to love!

I wish I had known about RVS when my children were little. What a wonderful place to develop young people, as early as 3 years!

the teachers micromanage the students, they wouldn't let the students go up a hill and overall overprotective school

Great school and awesome teachers. Our kids love going here, and a very inclusive place for the entire family.

Amazing school with friendly and dedicated staff where kids love to learn

Fantastic School. Our son absolutely loves his teachers and classmates.

Thus sounds like a great school just what grades can it go up to

I love this school so much because I go to it

One of the best private schools of Calgary

Don't like it.