Are you considering applying to Riverwood International Charter High School in 2024? In Sandy Springs, Georgia, Riverwood is a public charter school known for its strong academic program, emphasis on global citizenship, and diverse student body.
However, before submitting your application, it’s important to understand the school’s admissions requirements, curriculum, extracurricular opportunities, and whether it’s the right fit for your individual needs and goals.
In this article, we’ll provide you with all the essential information you need to know before applying to Riverwood International Charter High School in 2024.
History of Riverwood International Charter High School
Riverwood International Charter High School was established in 1971 as Riverwood High School, a traditional public high school serving the Sandy Springs area of Fulton County, Georgia.
In 2005, the school became a charter school model and became Riverwood International Charter School.
The conversion to a charter school allowed for more flexibility in the school’s academic program and operations while still receiving public funding.
The school’s focus on international education began in the 1980s with the creation of its International Studies magnet program.
This program was designed to expose students to various global issues and cultures and provide them with the knowledge and skills to become active global citizens. The program became so popular that it was eventually opened to all students in the school.
Today, Riverwood International Charter High School is known for its commitment to international education and global citizenship. The school’s curriculum includes a range of advanced and honors-level courses in subjects like math, science, English, social studies, and foreign languages, as well as a variety of elective courses in areas such as visual and performing arts, journalism, and entrepreneurship.
The school also has many extracurricular activities and clubs, including academic clubs, performing arts groups, sports teams, and service organizations.
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What are the Grades and Programs Offered at Riverwood International Charter High School?
Riverwood International Charter High School offers programs for grades 9 through 12. The school has a strong academic program that focuses on international education and global citizenship.
Students have access to various advanced and honors-level courses in subjects like math, science, English, social studies, and foreign languages. Additionally, the school offers a variety of elective courses, including visual and performing arts, journalism, and entrepreneurship.
The school has several programs designed to meet the needs of its diverse student population. These include:
International Studies Program
This program is open to all students and designed to expose them to a wide range of global issues and cultures and provide them with the knowledge and skills to become active global citizens.
Gifted Program
A program for students identified as gifted who require additional academic challenges and support.
English as a Second Language (ESL) Program
A program designed to support students who are English language learners and help them develop proficiency in English.
Special Education Program
A program designed to support students with disabilities and provide them with the services and accommodations they need to succeed academically and socially.
In addition to its academic programs, Riverwood International Charter High School has a wide range of extracurricular activities and clubs, including academic clubs, performing arts groups, sports teams, and service organizations.
The school also offers numerous community service and civic engagement opportunities, including a student-led global leadership program and partnerships with local and international organizations.
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What are the Unique Features of Riverwood International Charter High School?
Riverwood International Charter High School has several unique features that set it apart from other high schools in the area. Here are some of the most notable features:
International Education
Riverwood is strongly committed to international education and global citizenship. The school offers a range of courses and programs designed to expose students to different cultures, perspectives, and global issues.
Diverse Student Body
Riverwood has a diverse student body, with students from over 50 countries and various racial and ethnic backgrounds. The school celebrates this diversity and encourages students to learn from one another.
Extracurricular Activities
Riverwood offers various extracurricular activities and clubs, including academic clubs, performing arts groups, sports teams, and service organizations. Students can participate in activities that match their interests and passions.
Community Service
Riverwood encourages students to engage in community service and civic engagement. The school has partnerships with local and international organizations, and students can participate in service projects locally and globally.
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Support Services
Riverwood offers various student support services, including academic counseling, college and career guidance, and social-emotional support. The school also has programs and resources for students with disabilities, English language learners, and gifted and talented students.
Charter School Model
As a charter school, Riverwood has more flexibility in its academic program and operations than traditional public schools. This allows the school to innovate and tailor its program to meet the needs of its students.
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Riverwood International Charter High School Admission Process
The admission process for Riverwood International Charter High School varies depending on the student’s grade level and residency status. Here’s an overview of the admission process:
Application
To apply, students must complete an online application, typically available in the fall of each year. The application includes basic personal and academic information and information about the student’s interests and extracurricular activities.
Residency Verification
Applicants must provide documentation to verify their residency in Fulton County or the city of Atlanta. This may include a lease or mortgage statement, utility bill, or other proof of residency.
Testing
Students may be required to take a standardized test as part of the admission process. The type of test and the minimum score required may vary depending on the student’s grade level and academic program.
Lottery
Riverwood International Charter High School is a public charter school, meaning admission is determined through a random lottery process. The lottery is held in the spring, and applicants are notified of their admission status shortly after that.
Waitlist
If a student is not initially admitted to the school, they may be placed on a waitlist. If a spot becomes available, the school will offer admission to the next student on the waitlist.
It’s important to note that admission to Riverwood International Charter High School is based on a lottery system and is not guaranteed. However, the school does give priority to students who have siblings currently attending the school and to students who live within the school’s attendance zone.
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Riverwood International Charter High School Eligibility Requirements
To be eligible for admission to Riverwood International Charter High School, students must meet certain requirements related to residency, grade level, and academic standing. Here are the general eligibility requirements:
- Residency: Students must live within the attendance zone for Riverwood International Charter High School or be a residents of Fulton County or the city of Atlanta.
- Grade Level: Riverwood International Charter High School accepts grades 9 through 12 students. The admission process differs for each grade level, and specific eligibility requirements may vary.
- Academic Standing: Riverwood International Charter High School does not have specific academic requirements for admission. However, it does require students to have a record of good attendance, behavior, and academic performance in their previous school.
- English Language Proficiency: For non-native English speakers, Riverwood International Charter High School requires students to demonstrate English language proficiency through a standardized test or other assessment.
- Special Education Needs: Students with special needs are welcome to apply to Riverwood International Charter High School. However, the school requires that parents provide documentation of their child’s disability and any accommodations or services they may require.
Meeting these eligibility requirements does not guarantee Riverwood International Charter High School admission.
Riverwood International Charter High School Application Deadline 2024
The application deadline for Riverwood International Charter High School for the 2023-2024 school year has not been announced yet. Typically, the application becomes available in the fall of the previous school year, and the deadline for applying is in the winter or early spring.
Interested students and families must stay up-to-date on the application process and deadlines by checking the school’s website or contacting the school directly. The school may also hold information sessions or open houses for prospective students and families to learn more about the school and the application process.
What is the Riverwood International Charter High School Curriculum and Instruction?
Riverwood International Charter High School offers a comprehensive and challenging curriculum to prepare students for college and beyond. The school follows the Georgia Standards of Excellence, the state-mandated learning standards for K-12 schools in Georgia.
The curriculum at Riverwood International Charter High School includes a range of courses in core academic subjects and electives in areas such as fine arts, technology, and foreign languages.
Instruction at Riverwood International Charter High School is delivered through various teaching methods, including lectures, discussions, group projects, and hands-on activities.
In addition to its core academic program, Riverwood International Charter High School offers several specialized programs for students interested in pursuing specific fields or career paths.
These programs include the International Baccalaureate Diploma Programme, a rigorous and internationally recognized program that prepares students for college and beyond, and programs in engineering, healthcare, and business. These programs provide students unique opportunities to develop specialized skills and knowledge and explore potential career paths.
Riverwood International Charter High School Focus on STEAM Education
Riverwood International Charter High School strongly emphasizes STEAM education, which stands for Science, Technology, Engineering, Arts, and Mathematics. The school believes that a STEAM education is essential for preparing students for the 21st-century workforce, where many of the most in-demand jobs require skills in these areas.
To support its STEAM education focus, Riverwood International Charter High School offers a variety of courses and programs that integrate these subjects into the curriculum.
For example, the school offers Advanced Placement courses in Biology, Chemistry, Physics, Calculus, and Computer Science, as well as a range of elective courses in Engineering, Robotics, Graphic Design, and Film and Video Production.
In addition, Riverwood International Charter High School has a partnership with Georgia Tech, which provides students with access to cutting-edge research and technology in areas such as renewable energy, aerospace engineering, and biomedicine.
The school also has a STEM Academy, a program that offers specialized courses and hands-on learning experiences for students interested in pursuing STEM-related fields.
What Extracurricular Activities are Available at Riverwood International Charter High School?
Riverwood International Charter High School offers various extracurricular activities to enrich students’ educational experiences and help them develop new skills and interests. These activities include:
Clubs and Organizations
Riverwood International Charter High School has over 60 clubs and organizations, including various academic, cultural, service, and interest-based groups. Examples include the National Honor Society, Model UN, Key Club, Drama Club, Robotics Club, and Gay-Straight Alliance.
Athletics
Riverwood International Charter High School has a comprehensive athletics program that includes a variety of sports teams for both boys and girls. These sports include football, basketball, soccer, tennis, swimming, and many more. The school is a Georgia High School Association member and competes in the state’s highest classification.
Fine Arts
Riverwood International Charter High School has a strong fine arts program that includes courses in visual arts, music, and theater. The school has a marching band, jazz band, orchestra, chorus, and drama club, as well as a variety of opportunities for students to showcase their talents, such as concerts, performances, and art exhibitions.
Service and Leadership
Riverwood International Charter High School encourages students to give back to their community and develop leadership skills through service projects and leadership programs. The school has a Key Club, a service organization affiliated with Kiwanis International, and a Leadership Academy, a program that helps students develop their leadership potential.
Riverwood International Charter High School’s extracurricular activities are designed to provide students with a well-rounded education and help them develop new interests, skills, and friendships.
Riverwood International Charter High School Student Demographics
According to the National Center for Education Statistics, as of the 2020-2021 school year, Riverwood International Charter High School had a total enrollment of 1,639 students in grades 9-12. The student population is diverse and includes students from a variety of racial/ethnic backgrounds, including:
- 43% White
- 32% Black or African American
- 15% Hispanic or Latino
- 5% Asian
- 5% Multiracial or Other
In addition, the student population includes students from diverse socioeconomic backgrounds, with 43% of students eligible for free or reduced-price lunch.
The school provides a range of support services and resources to ensure that all students have the opportunity to succeed academically and personally.
Riverwood International Charter High School Student Support Services
Riverwood International Charter High School provides a variety of student support services to ensure that all students have the opportunity to succeed academically and personally. These services include:
Counseling Services
Riverwood International Charter High School has a comprehensive counseling program that offers academic, career, and personal counseling to students. Counselors work with students individually and in groups to provide support and guidance in course selection, college and career planning, and personal issues.
Special Education Services
Riverwood International Charter High School provides special education services to students with disabilities. Its team of special education teachers and staff develops individualized education plans (IEPs) that address students’ unique needs and support their academic and social-emotional growth.
English as a Second Language (ESL) Services
Riverwood International Charter High School offers ESL services to students who are English language learners. The school has a team of ESL teachers who work with students to develop English language skills and support their academic success.
Academic Support Services
Riverwood International Charter High School offers various academic support services, including tutoring, study skills workshops, and academic coaching. The school also has a Peer Tutoring program, where students can receive academic support from their peers.
Health Services
Riverwood International Charter High School has a school nurse on staff who provides health services to students, such as first aid, medication administration, and health education. The school also has a Wellness Center, which provides mental health services and resources to students.
Riverwood International Charter High School Culture and Community
Riverwood International Charter High School has a strong culture and sense of community that is built on its commitment to academic excellence, diversity, and inclusion. The school values a positive and respectful learning environment that fosters academic achievement, personal growth, and community engagement.
The school offers a variety of programs and activities that promote a strong sense of community among students, staff, and families. These include:
Clubs and Organizations
Riverwood International Charter High School has a diverse range of clubs and organizations that cater to a variety of student interests, such as the debate team, robotics club, theater club, and more. These clubs allow students to connect with peers with similar interests and passions.
Community Service
Riverwood International Charter High School encourages students to give back to their communities through community service opportunities. The school has a Community Service Club, which organizes volunteer opportunities and service projects for students throughout the school year.
School Events
Riverwood International Charter High School hosts various school events throughout the year, such as Homecoming, International Night, and Multicultural Day. These events unite students, staff, and families to celebrate the school’s diversity and community spirit.
Parent and Family Engagement
Riverwood International Charter High School values parents’ and families’ involvement in their children’s education and growth. The school hosts regular parent-teacher conferences, family nights, and other events that encourage parent and family engagement in the school community.
Riverwood International Charter High School Faculty and Staff Overview
Riverwood International Charter High School has a diverse and highly qualified faculty and staff dedicated to its students’ academic and personal growth. The school employs approximately 150 faculty and staff members, including teachers, administrators, and support staff.
The faculty and staff at Riverwood International Charter High School are highly trained and experienced professionals who are committed to providing a rigorous and challenging education to their students. They commit to creating a positive and supportive learning environment that fosters academic achievement, personal growth, and community engagement.
In addition to their academic qualifications, many of the faculty and staff members at Riverwood International Charter High School have extensive experience in their respective fields. This experience helps to bring real-world perspectives to the classroom and allows students to connect their academic learning to real-world experiences and opportunities.
Riverwood International Charter High School Teacher Qualification and Experience
The teachers at Riverwood International Charter High School are highly qualified and experienced professionals committed to providing a rigorous and challenging education to their students. All teachers at Riverwood International Charter High School are fully certified and meet the requirements of the Georgia Professional Standards Commission.
Many of the teachers at Riverwood International Charter High School hold advanced degrees in their subject areas and have extensive experience in teaching. The school also provides ongoing professional development opportunities for its teachers to ensure that they stay current on the latest research, teaching methods, and technologies.
Additionally, the school encourages its teachers to participate in extracurricular activities and to develop relationships with students outside of the classroom. This helps to create a positive and supportive learning environment and fosters a sense of community among students, staff, and families.
Importance of Parent Involvement at Riverwood International Charter High School
Parent involvement is highly valued and encouraged at Riverwood International Charter High School. The school recognizes the critical role that parents and guardians play in their children’s academic and personal success and actively seeks to engage parents in the educational process.
Research has shown that parent involvement is associated with positive student outcomes, including improved academic performance, increased motivation and engagement, and better social and emotional development.
By involving parents in the educational process, Riverwood International Charter High School can tap into the valuable resources and expertise of families, and create a more supportive and engaging learning environment.
At Riverwood International Charter High School, parents are encouraged to attend parent-teacher conferences, volunteer, participate in school events and activities, and stay informed about their child’s academic progress. The school also regularly communicates with parents through newsletters, email updates, and social media.
Are there any Opportunities for Parent Involvement at Riverwood International Charter High School?
Yes. Riverwood International Charter High School offers many opportunities for parent involvement. The school recognizes the importance of involving parents in the educational process and actively seeks to engage them in various ways.
Some of the opportunities for parent involvement at Riverwood International Charter High School include:
- Parent-Teacher Conferences: Riverwood International Charter High School encourages parents to attend parent-teacher conferences to discuss their child’s academic progress and to learn more about the school’s curriculum and instruction.
- Volunteer Opportunities: Parents are welcome to volunteer at the school in various roles, including assisting in the library, supporting school events, and helping with fundraising activities.
- Parent-Teacher Association (PTA): The PTA at Riverwood International Charter High School is a group of parents and teachers who work together to support the school’s academic programs, extracurricular activities, and community events.
- School Events: The school hosts various events throughout the year, including back-to-school nights, parent-teacher conferences, and cultural celebrations, which provide opportunities for parents to engage with the school community.
- Communication: Riverwood International Charter High School regularly communicates with parents through newsletters, email updates, and social media, keeping them informed about school events, academic progress, and opportunities for involvement.
The school can create a strong and supportive learning community that promotes academic excellence, personal growth, and community engagement by working with families.
Frequently Asked Questions
What are the admissions requirements for Riverwood International Charter High School?
Admissions are based on a lottery system, and applicants must also meet certain eligibility requirements, such as being on track to graduate.
What is the curriculum like at Riverwood International Charter High School?
Riverwood offers a rigorous academic program focusing on international education and global citizenship. Students have access to various advanced and honors-level courses in subjects like math, science, English, social studies, and foreign languages. Additionally, the school offers a variety of elective courses, including visual and performing arts, journalism, and entrepreneurship.
What extracurricular activities are available at Riverwood International Charter High School?
Riverwood offers a wide range of extracurricular activities and clubs, including academic clubs, performing arts groups, sports teams, and service organizations. Students can participate in activities like debate teams, robotics clubs, theater productions, and varsity sports.
How diverse is the student body at Riverwood International Charter High School?
Riverwood has a diverse student body with students from over 50 countries and various racial and ethnic backgrounds. The school also has a diverse faculty with various backgrounds and experiences.
What support services are available for students at Riverwood International Charter High School?
Riverwood offers various student support services, including academic counseling, college and career guidance, and social-emotional support. Additionally, the school has a variety of programs and resources to support students with disabilities, English language learners, and gifted and talented students.
Conclusion
Riverwood International Charter High School is highly-regarded with a diverse student body and strong academic program.
Some key factors to remember include the school’s focus on international education and global citizenship, its range of advanced and honors-level courses, and its numerous extracurricular activities and clubs. Additionally, it’s important to note that Riverwood is a charter school, which means it has unique policies and procedures.
References
- fultonschools.org– Riverwood International Charter High School
- usnews.com- Riverwood International Charter High School
- niche.com– Riverwood International Charter High School Atlanta GA