Riverside School Photo #5 - Riverside School was founded in 1974 by Patricia W. DeOrio. 'Mrs. D.,' as she is affectionately known as, now serves as Director Emeritus.

Riverside School

Riverside School transforms the lives of students with dyslexia and similar language-based learning differences while supporting a community of highly trained teachers and staff who specialize in educating these students to their highest potential.

Quick Facts (2025-26)

  • Top Ranked VA School
  • School Type: Special Education School
  • Grades: 1-8
  • Enrollment: 93 students
  • Yearly Tuition: $31,625
  • Acceptance rate: 25%
  • Average class size: 10 students
  • Application Deadline: None / Rolling
  • Source: Verified school update

Top Rankings

Riverside School ranks among the top 20% of private schools in Virginia for:

Category
Attribute
School Resources

School Overview

Religious Affiliation
Grades Offered
Grades 1-8
Learning Difference Programs
Yes
Learning Programs Supported
dyslexia and language-based learning differences
Year Founded
1974
School Calendar
Last Day of School
Mon. May 25, 2026

Student Body

Total Students
93 students
Student Body Type
Co-ed
% Students of Color
8%
State avg.: 30%
Students by Grade
Riverside School Student By Grade

Academics and Faculty

Total Classroom Teachers
29 teachers
Student-Teacher Ratio
3:1
National avg.: 13:1
Average Class Size
10 students
Classroom Dress Code
Casual
Students are expected to dress in a way that is appropriate and responsible. Students are expected to be neat, clean, and well-groomed when they come to school. No hats are to be worn indoors.

Tuition and Acceptance Rate

Admission Deadline
None / Rolling
Yearly Tuition Cost
Tuition Notes
Payment options include directly to Riverside’s business office either in one full installment by July or two payments in July and January. Families can also chose installment plans through our tuition management payment system, TADS.
% on Financial Aid
20%
Acceptance Rate
25%
National avg.: 81%
Admissions Director
Debra Mitchell
Application URL
Endowment Size
$50 million

Sports

Total Sports Offered
3 sports

Extracurriculars

Total ExtracurricularsTotal Extra-curric.
4 extracurriculars
ExtracurricularsExtra-curric.
Club or Organization:
Chess ClubRobotics Club


Arts and Music Programs:
Art ClubDrama Club

School Notes

  • School Motto: Truth and Honor
  • School Mascot: Wild Boars
  • Riverside School transforms the lives of students with dyslexia and similar language-based learning differences while supporting a community of highly trained teachers and staff who specializein educating these students to their highest potential.
  • With a 10:1 student-teacher ratio, Riverside`s teaching approach is dedicated to providing small classes,individualized curriculum, as well as one-on-one instruction and a nurturing environment to enhance the learning experiences of children with dyslexia.
  • Riverside`s hallmark one-on-one Language Fundamentals (LF) instruction uses the O-G Approach to buildclose teacher-student relationships to allow for continuous feedback, positive reinforcement, and a bright future for children.
  • Riverside`s teachers are exceptionally well-prepared to educate children with different learning needs. Riverside`s faculty utilize the principles of the Orton-Gillingham (O-G) Approach, a research validated approach to reading instruction. All Riverside teachers are specially and extensively trained in the O-G Approach. This approach serves as the foundation for the school`s programs and is fully integrated into classroom core subject instruction.
  • Riverside maintained its highest enrollment of 81 students (grades K-8) during the 2019-20 academic year.
  • Sample of notable school alumni/alumnae:
    • John Doe, Nobel Laureate -
Source: Verified school update

Frequently Asked Questions

How much does Riverside School cost?
Riverside School's tuition is approximately $31,625 for private students and $800 for summer students.
What is the acceptance rate of Riverside School?
The acceptance rate of Riverside School is 25%, which is lower than the national average of 79%. Riverside School's acceptance rate is ranked among the top private schools in Virginia with low acceptance rates.
Who are famous alumni from Riverside School?
Riverside School famous alumni include: John Doe, Nobel Laureate.
What sports does Riverside School offer?
Riverside School offers 3 interscholastic sports: Basketball, Dance and Soccer.
What is Riverside School's ranking?
Riverside School ranks among the top 20% of private schools in Virginia for: Lowest average acceptance rates and Largest endowments.
When is the application deadline for Riverside School?
The application deadline for Riverside School is rolling (applications are reviewed as they are received year-round).
In what neighborhood is Riverside School located?
Riverside School is located in the North Chesterfield neighborhood of Richmond, VA. There are 5 other private schools located in North Chesterfield.

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Quick Facts (2025-26)

  • Top Ranked VA School
  • School Type: Special Education School
  • Grades: 1-8
  • Enrollment: 93 students
  • Yearly Tuition: $31,625
  • Acceptance rate: 25%
  • Average class size: 10 students
  • Application Deadline: None / Rolling
  • Source: Verified school update

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Did You Know?

The average private school tuition in Richmond, VA is $16,490 for elementary schools and $19,149 for high schools (read more about average private school tuition across the country).
The average acceptance rate in Richmond, VA is 65% (read more about average acceptance rates across the country).

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