Ohio’s oldest co-educational, non-sectarian independent day school.
Academics
Academics at Ridgewood
Ridgewood School offers an academically challenging college-preparatory curriculum to maximize every student’s learning potential. The power to excel is within each student who attends Ridgewood. We understand that not all of us learn in the same way. That is why many parents choose Ridgewood. Our teachers recognize the differences in the way children learn so they look to identify what works best for each child.
Each grade has a curriculum to follow that allows for a smooth transition into the next grade. Ridgewood teachers work together to make certain students meet the goals before moving to the next level. Additionally, class sizes are limited to a maximum of eighteen students so that each student receives individualized attention and special instructional help when needed. If a student excels in an academic area, potential is assessed and placement is made accordingly.
In addition to a comprehensive program of accelerated academics, our students learn the skills of initiative, responsibility, and persistency. They embrace collaboration and learn how to accomplish tasks as a team. Ridgewood students are well-rounded individuals who are acquiring the tools that will prepare them for every phase of their lives.
Our Classrooms
Our teachers are experienced and extremely dedicated to their work. Class sizes are limited to only eighteen students to allow a concentration of learning and the ability for teachers to give each student individualized attention. There are computers in every classroom, SmartBoards in many classrooms, and a state-of-the art media center.
Curriculum
OVERVIEW
Our curriculum is an innovative, 21st century curriculum that prepares our students for the challenges of tomorrow. We believe in the balance of an award-winning STEM curriculum, coupled with with exciting opportunities in the visual and performing arts. Together with foreign language education, service learning opportunities, and an emphasis on oral and written communication, the Ridgewood curricula create a balanced approach: one that encourages creativity, while preparing students for 21st century problem solving.
Ridgewood’s science, technology, and math program is the only STEM program in Clark County to have been recognized as recipient of the Governor’s Thomas Edison Award for Excellence in STEM Education, since 2012. Ridgewood’s STEM program utilizes a hands-on, experiential approach, combining 21st-century skills with an inquiry-based curriculum. More than simply teaching facts and figures, Ridgewood students are learning to ask the right questions, and more importantly, to find their own solutions!
HIGHLIGHTS
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Algebra 1, Geometry and a math challenge class beginning at 1st grade
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An inquiry-based science program, including hands-on learning in both our classroom lab and on-site Eco-Laboratory.
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A fundamental Character Education framework integrated within all classroom curricula.
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A fully differentiated math curriculum, allowing students to work at a pace appropriate for each child.
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Ridgewood School is delighted to have partnered with Springfield City Schools to offer a unique online component for our Algebra I, and Algebra II courses, allowing students to earn high school credit for their work in these course areas. Students benefit from direct instruction in small classes at Ridgewood, while earning high school credit.
The Jane P.B. and Peter Hollenbeck
Preschool
Become a part of our future. Become a part of the Ridgewood family, where diversity and effort are valued and the act of learning is revered. Our new Jane P.B. and Peter Hollenbeck Preschool is available five days a week, with both half-day and full-day options.
Honors,
Awards, and Competitions
Ridgewood students participate in many academic competitions related to Writing, Science, and Math, including:
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Young Authors Writing Contest (Grades 4-8)
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Daughters of the American Revolution [DAR] Essay Contest (Grades 7-8)
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Geography Bee (Grades 4 -8)
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Spelling Bee (Grades 4-8)
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Power of the Pen (Grades 7-8)
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Science Fair (Grades 6-8)
Ridgewood School prides itself on the accomplishments of our students, alumni, and faculty. Students excel academically and in extracurricular activities, both within our walls and within our community.
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We routinely produce local Valedictorians and Salutatorians.
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Our students (grades 1-8) routinely test two grade levels above their current grade placement.
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Our Science Olympiad team has placed twice in the top 10 teams in the state of Ohio since 2002.
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Winners of Spelling, History, and Geography Bees.
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State level of Power of the Pen high level placement and participation.
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Since 1997, over 35 Ridgewood students have won regional essay competitions sponsored by the Daughters of the American Revolution.
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Thomas Edison Award Winner for excellence in STEM education in 2012 and 2014.
Academic Resources
Ridgewood School Library Catalog
Media Smarts
Digital Citizenship, Media Literacy & Internet Safety
Media Literacy is the ability to access, interpret, evaluate and communicate information delivered in a variety of medium formats. Canada’s Centre for Digital and Media Literacy provides resources to help young people develop critical thinking skills and to engage with media as active and informed digital citizens.
Art
View the art of over 8,000 artists.
Cool kid activities and projects from the National Gallery of Art.
Computer Science
Coding tutorials, games, printable and challenges for beginners and those who know some coding.
K-2 friendly web and app-based coding site.
Free programming resource and online community from MIT. You can use tutorial or create on your own.
3D Designs, electronics and coding
Keyboarding
Good for keyboarding and computer skills
Good for keyboarding and computer skills
Learning to Type: A Resource Guide
A wonderful comprehensive article that links to various typing resources.
Spanish
Be sure to click on English (top left corner and change the word to Espanol)
Language Arts
Math
Math games, flashcards and a homework helper.
Kindergarten through eighth-grade math problems.
This site will help you do many different kinds of unit conversions.
A fun counting game from the commercial site Primary Games.
A variety of math games and video clips.
Music
Springfield Symphony Orchestra
Visit the Springfield Symphony to learn about our local orchestra, musicians, and special events.
Philharmonia Orchestra YouTube Channel
View performances and informational videos from Philharmonia Orchestra in London, UK.
P.E. & Wellness
This wonderful site has top-quality, reliable information, games and quizzes for many health and nutrition topics. Information for kids, teen, parents and teachers.
A website about football, baseball, and more.
Reading
Explore the world of reading.
A fun way to learn to read while learning about art, music, poetry and more.
Scroll down to READ and click on a book (Grades 2 - 6)
Storyline Online (grade Pre K - 4)
Actors and actresses read books aloud to the viewer.
Books are listed by category and theme.
Research
Research resources for students in grades K-5. Includes online encyclopedias World Book Kids (grades K-2) and World Book Student (grades 3-5)
Enchanted Learning produces K-12 educational material covering a wide range of topics including science, geography, math, culture and more.
Science
An excellent online animal encyclopedia from the University of Michigan with a challenging reading level. Type your animal's name in the search box.
Great resource for hands on activities and lessons!
Hands-on Science Resources for Home and School