It is an exciting time at River Rock Academy, as we continue to expand and enhance our academic and behavioral supports and programs. This school year, River Rock has prioritized three key areas for curriculum and instructional advancements: social skills, reading and math, and lesson planning. One of the most notable additions is the adoption of the Second Step curriculum across all campuses and grade levels. This comprehensive social skills program focuses on building emotional intelligence, fostering positive peer relationships, and equipping students with strategies to navigate social and emotional challenges effectively. Used by schools nationwide, Second Step offers evidence-based lessons that address critical areas of emotional and social adjustment, ensuring students are better prepared to thrive both inside and outside the classroom.

Another exciting enhancement is the integration of IXL, a widely recognized program for assessing and strengthening individualized skills in English Language Arts (ELA) and math. Through IXL, students are assessed at their current academic level and provided with personalized, research-backed instruction designed to meet their unique needs. This approach allows students to make meaningful progress and gain confidence in their academic abilities throughout the year. Additionally, River Rock has introduced a new web-based lesson planning format to support administrators and teachers in implementing best practices in teaching and learning. This tool fosters consistency and efficiency across all River Rock campuses, ensuring high-quality instruction tailored to meet the needs of our diverse learners. As we look to the future, River Rock Academy remains committed to embracing innovative programming that empowers our students to reach their fullest potential while cultivating a positive and confident outlook on their academic achievements.