Riviera Schools: A Legacy of Excellence

Since 1950, Riviera Schools has been guiding students on their educational journey from preschool through high school, offering an academic experience that is in a class of its own.

Few decisions are more critical for parents than choosing the right school, as it shapes their child’s experiences, relationships and future opportunities. While parents have many options to consider, few schools provide an educational experience as enriching and distinctive as Riviera Schools.

For over 70 years, the leadership at Riviera Schools has recognized the profound impact of this choice, continually striving for excellence in every aspect, whether your child is beginning their educational journey or preparing to graduate.

Riviera Schools is known throughout the community for its long tradition of educational excellence and its success in guiding each child to reach his or her full potential. Nestled in the vibrant heart of Miami, the school challenges and nurtures students from preschool through grade 12, encouraging them to exceed limits and defy expectations.

The History of Riviera

Riviera’s legacy of educational excellence dates back to 1950 with the opening of Riviera Day School in Coral Gables. Originally established as a private school with a stellar reputation, Riviera expanded in 1996 to include a middle school, followed by the launch of the state-of-the-art Riviera Preparatory School in 2011. Today, Riviera serves over 1,000 students, with grades PK through grade 5 attending Riviera Day School and grades 6 through 12 continuing their education at Riviera Preparatory School.

Both campuses work together to provide the best educational experience possible and uphold the ideals upon which the school was originally founded. Although bridging two campuses, Riviera Schools truly is one family.

Academic Excellence

While many schools highlight their academic achievements, Riviera’s distinguished history and steadfast commitment to education have cultivated an academic portfolio that truly stands out. From students earning perfect scores on the PSAT/NMSQT and SAT to producing National Merit Scholarship Program Semifinalists and awarding $75 million in scholarships across nine graduating classes, Riviera is immensely proud of its students’ accomplishments. With a wide range of AP courses, honor societies and more, Riviera is dedicated to nurturing future leaders. This dedication begins with smaller class sizes, ensuring that each student receives the individual attention and support they deserve.

Riviera’s dedicated faculty and small class sizes inspire each student to achieve personal success, act with integrity and serve others. With a legacy of excellence, the two campuses blend tradition with innovation, creating a dynamic community where academic rigor meets compassionate support. The school cultivates an environment where students feel valued and empowered to pursue their passions, develop their strengths and make meaningful contributions to the world.

Preparation for What’s Ahead

This academic support continues through high school and beyond, thanks to Riviera’s comprehensive College Counseling Program. Counselors guide students towards their postgraduate goals, equipping them with the tools needed to pursue their dreams and gain admission to the college of their choice. Parent involvement is integral to this process, with 1:1 meetings, workshops and information sessions, ensuring families are well supported every step of the way.

“Counselors foster the development of each student through targeted academic advising and college planning, ensuring that every student is supported and guided through the process,” says Luna Otero, director of communications and alumni relations for Riviera Schools. “College counselors maintain an open-door policy, working closely with students in grades 6 through 12 to address their academic and college counseling needs.”

One Big Family

While Riviera has continuously innovated, evolved and grown over the years, it remains a close-knit community where everyone supports and uplifts one another. This sense of unity extends beyond the students to include families, creating a cohesive group working together towards shared goals of academic excellence and student success. The Riviera Parents Club, Parent Ambassadors and Class Coordinators play a pivotal role in this effort, facilitating communication, supporting initiatives and encouraging active parent involvement.

“As both a parent and school administrator for over 15 years, I can confidently say that Riviera is more than just a place of academic excellence; it’s a family,” says Jorge Ortega of Riviera Schools. “Riviera is committed to putting students first, ensuring they thrive in an environment where their academic success and personal growth are our highest priorities.”

Unlike larger school settings, Riviera’s intimate size coupled with its dedicated effort to know each child and family affords the school the opportunity to support their individual goals and aspirations. Through these personal connections, the school leverages extraordinary results with its students.

An Eye towards the Future

Riviera’s commitment to innovation and excellence is unwavering, and this dedication is reflected in the school’s recent branding update. The new branding captures the core principles of Riviera, with a refreshed look that honors its legacy. A key element of the rebrand is the banyan tree, a symbol closely associated with Coral Gables, home of Riviera Day School. With its deep roots and remarkable growth, the banyan tree mirrors the journey of Riviera students, whose potential is truly limitless.

“As we approach the 75th anniversary of Riviera Schools, we honor the legacy of those who built our foundation,” says Kara Locke, executive director of Riviera Schools. “With deep respect for the past, we now look ahead, driven by the vision to create a future that upholds tradition while embracing innovation for generations yet to come.”

Founded in 1950, Riviera is a fully accredited, non-sectarian, co-educational, independent day school for preschool through grade 12. To learn more, please visit rivieraschools.com.

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