PRESCHOOL - GRADE 8 BY DESIGN

"Ridgefield Academy prepared me very well for high school at Greens Farms Academy - both in the classroom and on the field. I was able to take the advanced math class Algebra 2 as a freshman as well as Biology Honors. Señora Brooks prepared me very well for conversational Spanish that allowed me to fit right in with my Honors Spanish class."

At Ridgefield Academy, we understand that early childhood is a pivotal time of development. It is during this time that fundamental concepts such as confidence, curiosity, respect, and resolve are instilled. That’s why our private school focuses solely on preschool - Grade 8.

The strong foundation built in these early years creates a lifelong love of learning, a drive for academic excellence, and fosters a culture of kindness. We believe that students benefit greatly from a curriculum and community that is designed specifically for the learning needs of children and early adolescents. With a strong start at RA, students go on to be successful learners and confident citizens. Ridgefield Academy graduates continue on to leading secondary schools where they are consistently recognized as capable, motivated leaders.

Why PS - Grade 8 Works

A Safe Environment is Where Children Thrive

Children learn at an optimal level when they feel emotionally safe. At RA, each child is seen as an individual. Teachers take the time to get to know each child and understand their interests, passions, and talents. Students are encouraged to dream, take risks, and speak their mind in a supportive, connected community. As childhood is valued and celebrated, imaginations flourish and dreamers become thinkers.

Early and Genuine Leadership Opportunities

A preschool - Grade 8 environment provides genuine opportunities for leadership at an early age. Beginning in the Lower School, students lead assemblies and deliver presentations as part of the public speaking program. As students enter the Upper School, leadership roles become more defined and significant. Students in Grade 6, 7, and 8 can be elected to the Upper School Student Council and serve as representatives of the entire student body. As the oldest students in the school, Grade 8 students step into additional leadership roles in their final year: running all-school assemblies, walking Lower School students to their classrooms each day, and acting as role models for younger students. Programs like the Kindergarten/Grade 8 Buddy program intentionally connect older and younger students, contributing to RA's sense of a connected community.

Every Ridgefield Academy student has the chance to step into a leadership role. Without the presence of high school, these leadership roles are recognized, authentic, and valued within the RA/LP community.

Finding the Right High School for Your Child

It is Ridgefield Academy's commitment to every eighth grader to help find a high school that is the right "fit." You and your child, along with the Head of Upper School and admissions directors at high schools, will work together to find the next place where your child will grow and thrive.

RA graduates are vigorously pursued by high schools because they are well-prepared, self-assured, self-confident, and well-rounded students. Over 90% of RA graduates attend their first or second choice of high schools.

Change Fosters Growth

Preparation for High School and Beyond

The comprehensive program at Ridgefield Academy provides a balance of challenging academics, artistic creativity, athletic participation, and character development. All students are involved in all facets of community life at RA and have the opportunity to participate in activities and programs they may not otherwise have in larger schools. Having met challenges and experienced individual success in the preschool - Grade 8 environment, graduates emerge from the academic journey prepared for high school and beyond.

Research suggests that students in K-8 schools do better than students in stand alone middle schools.

EducationNext EducationDive Harvard Ed Steinhardt NYU Study

Our students believe that, too.

PREPARED FOR THE FUTURE (opens in new window/tab)

David Schwartz reflects on his years at Ridgefield Academy and how they prepared him for the road ahead.

ENGAGEMENT AT RA (opens in new window/tab)

RA students are encouraged to find their true voice, empowered to advocate for themselves, and motivated to engage in the culture of their school and their community.

COMMUNICATION SKILLS AT RA (opens in new window/tab)

Ridgefield Academy has long since understood the intrinsic value of strong communication skills and confident public speaking.

"I just started the Robotics Club, am taking all the honors classes, as well as taking an independent study course on computer programming. Last year I made the Honor Roll both semesters. I am very thankful for the opportunities that Ridgefield Academy has given me."

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