Welcome back to our Spotlight on Schools series, where local parents shares their thoughts on their experience with their elementary school in Prince George’s County. In this fourth Spotlight, read all about Riverdale Elementary School in Riverdale Park, Maryland from the perspective of parent and PTO President, Jenni Pompi!
By: Jenni Pompi
PTO President & Mom to a Second and Fourth-Grader
About Riverdale Elementary School
Riverdale Elementary School is a Title IX neighborhood school located in Riverdale Park, Maryland. As of 2016, there were 797 children enrolled in Riverdale in grades Pre-K through fifth, and there is a pullout program for TAG-identified students. Our principal is Dr. Cheryl Hughes. Dr. Hughes is dedicated to both her students and her teachers, and is very focused on childhood literacy and community engagement.
Programs at Riverdale Elementary School
The school hosts math, reading and science nights so parents can come into the school and see what their children are learning, and learn how to help them at home. The school also hosted its first dance this year, which provided a space for children and parents to come together and celebrate. There are also at times after school activities for children who need more help in reading or math, and programs for advanced learners, like the STREAM robotics program where kids are learning robotics and computer programming.
Overall Perspective on Riverdale Elementary School
As a parent, I have have two children who attend Riverdale, in grades two and four. While the school faces some academic challenges because the vast majority of the student body speak English as a second language, I have been pleased with the teachers and the progress I’ve seen in my children, who are both native English speakers. Teachers are very communicative and responsive to parents, accepting of input an suggestions, and strive to make sure every child is challenged and performing his or her best. I have volunteered in several classrooms as a parent and for career day and have been impressed with classroom management and student engagement. What I like most about the school are the wonderful, caring, dedicated teachers and staff, and the bright and kind students at the school.
Curious about Riverdale Elementary? Check out their upcoming book fair, May 1-5th between the hours of 8:45am – 2pm! Want to support Riverdale Elementary? The first Wednesday of every month, Dumm’s Pizza & Subs in Riverdale Park gives the Riverdale Elementary Parent Teacher Organization 10 percent of the proceeds, which are then used to support and enrich the students’ academic experience.
Greenbelt Elementary School
Dora Kennedy French Immersion School
University Park Elementary School
Riverdale Elementary School
Gladys Noon Spellman Elementary School
Robert Goddard Montessori School
Mt. Rainier Elementary School
Holy Redeemer School
Want to write and share a little bit about your local Prince George’s County school? Please do! Contact me at Sarah@routeonefun.com
Hi Sarah – What sort of resources are you looking for? If I can help, I will. Email me at Sarah@Routeonefun.com I'll also look into trying to connect you with a current RP elementary parent.
Looking to move to the Riverdale neighborhood and I would love to hear from parents of current Riverdale Park students. We are moving from DC and are looking for family/networking resources and are striking out online. Anyone out there? Anyone can email me back at sara (dot) koslosky (at) gmail (dot) come