Patriot Blog

"When I am with my Ridgefield Academy Community I feel safe, connected, and supported."

Emily shares her thoughts on entering the RA community in 5th grade

In my almost 10 years at RA, what has always stuck with me throughout is the community.

Kiran speaks to students about the power of communities and their importance in our lives.

By sharing his interest in magic, Kai made connections in the RA community.

Beibhinn speaks to the school community about inclusion, kindness, and celebrating differences.

Head of Middle and Upper Schools Clinton Howarth addressed the faculty and students with words of inspiration and a story about his alarm clock. 

Grade 1 students researched a country of their choosing and presented their research during an online fair. 

In her last Counselor's Corner series for the school year, Terry Williams gives strategies for emotional regulation. 

With the heartbreaking loss of the spring athletic season, Athletic Director Beth MacInnes and Coach Brendan Carney have worked hard to provide team members with a well-rounded experience.

In her last book review for RA, Librarian Gail Heaslip shares Susan Hood's story about a young girl growing up in a town built on a landfill in Paraguay. 

Grade 6 students were transported to the year 1928 and the mountains of North Carolina by reading Dovey Coe, written by Frances O’Roark Dowell.

Incorporating a mindfulness practice into your day doesn't have to be complicated or time consuming, and the benefits far outweigh the effort.

Parenting during normal times can be challenging but parenting during a global health crisis can be downright difficult. School Counselor Terry Williams offers tips to practice self-care during COVID-19.

Henrik S. spoke about joyful learning being a key to getting a good education. 

As the weeks in quarantine continue, it is becoming increasingly difficult for all of us to stay motivated and to keep our kids focused. School Counselor Terry Williams offers helpful tips. 

History students were offered an intimate glimpse of the Second World War through the personal letters written by Captain Stanley Rand, Jr., to his wife, Rachel.

As one of the last Grade 8 students to give an Assembly speech this year, Jodie F. speaks about learning what integrity means to her through her time at RA.

As we enter into a new month of remote learning, it is important to reflect on how children are adapting to this new learning environment, how we are faring as individuals and parents, and where we are as a community.

Our students begin engaging in our signature public speaking program as early as three years of age.

Charlotte D. spoke about loneliness, a common theme during this time of social distancing. Enjoy Charlotte's story and her advice for handling loneliness.

This is a story of the mutual bond of affection that exists between Jessica and her dog Rescue as well as the amazing abilities of service dogs.

Yes, there can be a silver lining to the Covid-19 crisis! Kids can learn some very important life skills and coping strategies that will serve them well for the rest of their lives.

'Life is about growing even from something that seems as simple as a bus ride," said Andrew during his speech on perseverance. 

School Counselor Terry Williams provides advice for coping with regressive behavior in children due to the coronavirus. 

Abby S. shares a story about how her teachers have empowered her at RA. 

Licensed School Counselor Terry Williams offers parents and caregivers tips for supporting children during the Covid-19 crisis. 

School Counselor Terry Williams writes on the topic of disappointment and sadness and offers ways for parents and children to handle these emotions. 

Owen shares the importance of having someone who can help you through a problem. 

Laurie E. spoke about developing confidence by taking a risk with the encouragement of her teachers and classmates.

"As an 8th grade leader, I have learned that integrity is important to have because the younger grades will look up to you to do the right thing," said Lily.  

The Many Colors of Harpreet Singh by Supriya Kelkar is a gorgeous celebration of diversity and fitting in at a new school. 

Will G. spoke about developing perseverance and self confidence by competing in Cross Country.

Director of The Center for Innovative Teaching & Learning, Basil Kolani reflects on a movement involving some high profile names in the math education world towards data fluency and away from the "geometry sandwich," the traditional progression from Algebra I to Geometry to Algebra II.
 

As children grow in a world filled with technology, it is more important than ever to nurture kindness in our children and to encourage their natural leadership and problem-solving abilities.

JOIN US FOR OUR TOUCH A TRUCK EVENT SATURDAY, JUNE 1 FROM 9AM UNTIL 11AM!

Director of the Center for Innovative Teaching and Learning, Basil Kolani shares his thoughts on challenging conventional education.

As part of this year’s continued development of the student experience, our Board of Trustees led a process to review and revise our school’s mission statement.

Our Fun For Ones program was created for our youngest “students” who are always on the move and discovering the world around them. Fun For Ones is a great way for parents (or caregiver) and children to explore a preschool environment together.

Director of The Center for Innovative Teaching and Learning Basil Kolani shares how recent public events sparked his own thoughts on how RA empowers their students.

Since the Center for Innovative Teaching and Learning was founded three years ago, Ridgefield Academy has been talking about innovation. But what does innovation actually mean?

Whether or not to send your child to kindergarten is a concern for many parents. We all want our children to succeed and whether or not you choose to put your child in kindergarten can have a significant influence on their success in school and beyond.

RA Head of School Jim Heus shares his thoughts on a recent NPR article that focuses on the importance of the early investment in education and how it will best position children for future success.