"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 we choose to focus solely on grades K-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 K - 8 Works

We understand that the foundation for life-long learning is established during the elementary and middle school years.

During these early years, your child's academic strengths, interests, and learning styles become better defined. Therefore, we devote all our resources to serving children during this crucial period, an approach we believe better prepares them for their high school years. By the time your child is in Grade 8, the best match for high school is easier to determine in partnership with teachers and a placement director who have worked in collaboration with your family during formative years.

RA students benefit greatly from the opportunity they & their parents have to choose the right high school at the right time.

When students and their families understand their strengths, interests, passions, and challenges they can make a more informed decision about high school. You and your child, along with the Upper School Head and admissions directors at interested high schools will work in partnership to find a high school match that recognizes your child's unique gifts and achievements.

RA graduates are vigorously pursued by high schools because they are well-prepared, self-assured, self-confident, and well-rounded students, often becoming leaders in high school and beyond because of the foundations that were laid in their early years.  Over 90% of RA graduates attend their first or second choice of high schools.

Children often need a change.

K-12 can be a long time to be in one school, or one school system, and children are often ready for a change of venue, new friends, and new challenges.

According to statistics, few students begin in kindergarten and graduate as seniors from the same school. Because Ridgefield Academy ends in grade 8, our students leave together and move on to the secondary schools of their choice, eager for new experiences and possibilities. Our students are a great support to one another during this process of change and growth.

K - 8 at RA allows for early and genuine leadership experiences and opportunities.

At RA, students in grades 6, 7, and 8 have the opportunity to assume genuine leadership roles early on. Grade 8 students lead assemblies and act as role models to our younger students. At commencement, each graduate delivers a speech to the entire school community reflecting on their experience at Ridgefield Academy.

RA graduates enter their high school years as confident, self-assured, community-minded individuals empowered to make a difference in their lives and the lives of others.

The K - 8 environment allows students to experience age-appropriate activities and events in a safe environment, without the influence and distractions of high school.

Seventh and eighth graders at Ridgefield Academy take on the role of upperclassmen. At the same time, they can be themselves, often choosing to remain children a bit longer. Our facilities are age appropriate and for the use of all our students. Our experienced faculty is aware of developmental levels and trained for and committed to the elementary years. They nurture students throughout their childhood years, while preparing them for the rigors of secondary school.

Your child will be known, valued, and given every opportunity to grow in a myriad of ways as he or she prepares for secondary school and life beyond our campus.

Learn More!

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

EducationNext EducationDive ExcelinEd Steinhardt NYU Study

Our students believe that, too.

PREPARED FOR THE FUTURE

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

ENGAGEMENT AT RA

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

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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K - 8 By Design