Core Attributes
Rivendell is a place full of rich experiences, deep relationships, and meaningful traditions.
From quiet study to lively discussions, from moments of worship to hands-on learning, our school is full of life. Alumni often return, drawn by the friendships and formative experiences that shaped their time here.
PARENT INVOLVEMENT
SENIOR PARTNERS IN THE LIFE OF RIVENDELL
Parents are senior partners in their child’s education at Rivendell. We invite families to take an active role in the life of the school, fostering a strong sense of community and shared responsibility.
PARENTS CONTRIBUTE BY:
Serving in core hour roles (office help, morning drop-off, lunch AND recess supervision)
Leading art, music, or PE classes and helping with classroom activities
Assisting with stage productions, school events, and supporting the school
Parental involvement enriches the student experience and models the importance of service, engagement, and lifelong learning.
“We offer our children, under the strong and tender providence of God, to the nurture of Rivendell School. We accept with humility and seriousness of spirit our responsibility for assuming a high level of involvement in our children’s community of learning.”
– From the Rivendell School Blessing and Commitments, Parent Response
“At Rivendell, I feel like I’m not just watching my child’s education happen - I’m a meaningful part of it. The opportunity to contribute my own time and skills in partnership with teachers and staff has helped me feel truly connected to a community that cares just as much about who my kids are becoming as what they’re learning.”
— Beth Chapman Kaufmann, Rivendell Mom
BUDDIES
LEARNING THROUGH MENTORSHIP
One of Rivendell’s most treasured traditions is where older and younger students are paired together for the year as Buddies. It is more than just a school tradition, Buddies has become a vital part of our community- where the kids spend weekly time together helping students form meaningful relationships across Forms.
YOUNGER STUDENTS
gain friendship, guidance, and confidence as they learn from their older peers.
OLDER STUDENTS
develop leadership, responsibility, and a heart for service.
Buddies engage in shared activities, reading time, and school events, creating bonds that last beyond the school year.
THIS PROGRAM EMBODIES OUR VISION FOR EDUCATION AS A RELATIONAL EXPERIENCE, WHERE STUDENTS LEARN NOT JUST FROM TEACHERS, BUT FROM ONE ANOTHER.
“Starting as a young kindergartener, having an older buddy to look up to helped me feel like I had a place at rivendell. Now that I am older and have a younger buddy, I love getting the chance to be the person setting the example and helping the little ones feel like a part of the school.”
— Ava Rogers, 7th Grade
ASSEMBLY
WORSHIP, STORIES, & LEARNING TOGETHER
Each week, our entire school gathers for Assembly, a time of worship, storytelling, and shared learning. Led by our oldest students, Assembly includes:
JOYFUL WORSHIP
We sing together as a school songs that direct our hearts and minds toward Christ.
GUEST SPEAKERS
Parents and community members share personal stories to inspire.
STUDENT PRESENTATIONS
Classes teach one another about what they are learning and how it connects to a greater Story.
“Assembly is our weekly opportunity to gather as a community and remind ourselves why we are here and whom we serve! It’s a vital part of our schedule, a time to connect with one another and with the Lord as we celebrate the end of another wonderful week.”
— Emily Andringa, Form 3 Teacher
TRADITIONS
MEANINGFUL PREDICTABLE MOMENTS
There are events throughout the year that have become tradition and a part of the culture here at Rivendell. A few of those things are:
THE SCHOOL BLESSING
FALL FESTIVAL
LESSONS & CAROLS
…AND MANY MORE!