President

Dear Current and Prospective Riverside Families,

Riverside Preparatory Academy has been transforming lives on our beautiful 206-acre campus overlooking the beautiful northeast Georgia mountains for more than a century.

Our campus facilities are unmatched by peer institutions and rival many small colleges. The faculty genuinely care about the students and continue to demonstrate their commitment to our mission by enhancing the quality of our college preparatory curriculum and programs by completing professional development, master-teacher, and advanced degree activities. Additionally, an endowment and the visionary leadership and governance of the Board of Trustees keep the Academy focused on moving forward in today’s modern times and global society.

What is the secret to Riverside’s timeless mission?

More than ever, young men need to be challenged and inspired. From the moment they arrive on campus, students begin their transformation from boys into young men. The Academy incorporates an evolved military model of structure and leadership principles of accountability, teamwork, and selfless service to teach responsibility, respect, and self-discipline. They learn to do the right things, both as an individual and as part of a team. Making their beds and turning in homework assignments lead to rewards. They realize they can be successful, which incentivizes them even more. Throughout the process, they learn that self-discipline drives success. Students learn to be responsible for themselves, become leaders of their peers, earn leadership rank, all while building self-confidence. This is achieved while still having to focus on the rigorous academic coursework and athletic practices and competitions that make up the majority of the daily schedule.

Riverside Prep promotes academic achievement in an environment set up for how boys learn best – active, hands-on, with consistent structure and application. Following the teachings of Dr. Michael Gurian, who brings neurobiology and brain research into best practices for schools, Riverside’s reputation for “best in boys’ education” comes from decades of experience and continued professional development to understand what boys need. The Gurian Model helps equip faculty and staff with the practical tools necessary to meet young men where they are, especially in the classroom, and fosters the platform for students’ academic achievement, preparing them for success at Riverside and beyond.

A current parent offers these words that attest to the value of Riverside Prep:

“Riverside has provided a place for my son to flourish in his academics and a place for him to glean valuable life lessons from adolescent setbacks in a nurturing and safe environment. This supportive atmosphere with positive role models has allowed him to grow resilient and self-confident, turning challenges into opportunities for personal development that will help him in college and adult life.”

Riverside Prep is not a fit for every young man, but it is a transformative experience for most boys who engage. As a parent of a graduate, I can assure you that the rewards are much greater than the challenges. Take the first step to see whether Riverside is the right place for your son by calling today to schedule a visit.

Very respectfully,

Robert “Britt” Daniel, J.D.