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History and Tradition

Riverhill School was founded in 1980 by a group of parents whose objective was to provide their children with the very best elementary education. The school began with fewer than twenty children in kindergarten and first grade. Classes were held at Trinity Episcopal Church in Florence for the first two years until a suitable space could be found and made ready. In 1982, Riverhill moved to its present location at the former St. Michael's School in St. Florian. This facility is leased from St. Michael's Church, sharing some areas.

Each year Riverhill added a grade level and the school grew steadily. By 1985, kindergarten through sixth grade were offered, completing the elementary school. In 1996, the school built the Lester Building which currently houses grades five and six as well as art. The pre-kindergarten program was added in 1997. This progarm was later expanded to include two-year-olds and three-year-olds.

The school community reflects the great interest that Riverhill parents have in their children's education. They participate in many areas of school life, volunteering their services to the school as well as donating funds to enhance its programs. The Riverhill Annual Giving Program receives the support of more than two-thirds of the Riverhill families, and nearly all participate in one or more of the activities at the school, from helping with field day to volunteering in the school library.

Riverhill School joined the Alabama Independent School Association (AISA) in 1997 and received accreditation in 1998. In 2003, Riverhill received accreditation from the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools (SACS) following the cooperative agreement between the National Council for Private School Accreditation and SACS. After completing the review process, the school received reaffirmation of accreditation in the spring of 2010.

Riverhill has been through many changes in its evolution from two classes held in a borrowed church room to the present pre-school and elementary school in a multi-building facility. Through the years, the school has never wavered in its commitment to academic excellence and the encouragement of a life-long love of learning. This commitment is evident in all areas of school life, from the academic classes through the enrichment activities to the many extracurricular opportunities offered. Riverhill has also purchased a 60-acre piece of land near the current facility for future planning.

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