A Brief History of River Valley School
River Valley School (RVS) has a rich history dating back to its inception, dedicated to nurturing a learning environment that caters to the diverse needs of its students. Originally known as the Calgary Montessori school, the transition to River Valley School commenced in 2003, formalizing its status as a registered non-profit organization in 2004.
In 2018, RVS underwent a strategic shift, transitioning from a dual stream to a flexible single stream model, discontinuing its official Montessori program. This decision allowed the school to concentrate its resources on providing a dynamic and innovative learning environment, integrating the best practices from various pedagogies.
The appointment of Carolyn Breland as Head of School in 2019 marked a significant milestone. With a distinguished career spanning prestigious independent schools, her leadership has brought a wealth of knowledge and experience to RVS, enhancing its educational offerings and management practices.
The culmination of years of strategic planning materialized in December 2021 with the acquisition of the current school site at 3127 Bowwood Drive NW. This milestone, made possible through the generosity of donor families, underscores RVS’s commitment to providing a conducive learning environment.
Looking to the Future
Today, River Valley School remains steadfast in its commitment to helping every child discover their individual best. Through strong academics, meaningful relationships, and purposeful learning experiences, we create an environment where students are challenged, supported, and inspired to thrive. As the needs of children and families continue to evolve, we remain committed to continually strengthening our programs, learning environments, and educational experiences, ensuring River Valley continues to provide an exceptional independent school education for generations to come.
Designing Possibilities.
At River Valley School, we believe our learning environment is an important part of every child’s educational journey. Often called the “third teacher,” the spaces where students learn, play, and explore help inspire curiosity, creativity, and confidence.
We’re committed to continually enhancing our campus, programs, and resources through thoughtful improvements that enrich the student experience. From classrooms and outdoor learning spaces to technology and specialist programs, every investment helps our students thrive.
Gifts to the River Valley School Annual Fund make these ongoing improvements possible, ensuring today’s students—and generations to come—continue to learn in an environment designed to help every child discover their individual best.