There are two main things that I believe make Riverside Drive Charter a great elementary school: the dedicated teachers and the new Principal, Ms. Haynes. The teachers at Riverside are AMAZING. They are passionate, smart, and kind and there is very little turnover - all the teachers seem to want to come here and never leave. At every school I'm sure there are some good and some bad, but most of the teachers I've had experience with at Riverside are devoted to their students and love their jobs. From an educator's perspective, Ms. Haynes is extremely knowledgeable about all aspects of education and knows what needs to be done to make this school the best that it can be - including coming up with a plan to increase test scores without "teaching to the test". This happens to be important to me (higher test scores while still making learning fun,) so it thrills me to see that she is very involved and enthusiastic about Riverside's potential. From a parent's perspective, Ms. Haynes is down to earth, very friendly and approachable, and can relate to having elementary school aged children. I think she is a great leader and will start to really help take this school from a school the parents appreciate into a 10/10 powerhouse. There are several programs I personally love about Riverside including the awesome drama program; the learning garden with all the flowers, veggies, and chickens; the large library; the new computer lab; the annual Science Fair and Art Night and Literacy Night; and more. I also appreciate that I can be involved with the school through Governance council and all the committees the school has for parents to join if they want. And as a personal plus - I've met many incredible, dedicated parents through this school, some of whom are now my best friends. Last year (2016-17) the school went through a lot of changes and I'm not gonna lie - it was discouraging at the time. But, I'm so glad we stuck through it! I really think Riverside is a special neighborhood school with tons of potential to just keep getting better. read more

Great Principal and Assistant Principal, has a good community feeling about it. They always have a nurse and a librarian available and the STAR after school enrichment program is really good. read more

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"I really wish I could say this was a good school. I feel ashamed that we kept our child here for almost five years. When a child no longer likes going to school because of their teacher, it is a major problem--and this isn't the first year we have had issues here. The fourth-grade teacher holds all children in during recess and lunch (which is illegal in many districts). She even tells the students she receives multiple emails from parents saying she is being 'mean,' yet she continues to hold them in class. Furthermore, the students are required to leave their backpacks and lunch bags outside. While these items are left unattended, other children walk by and steal from them. Despite multiple calls and emails to the principal to inform her of the teacher's behavior and the theft, nothing has been done. This is a serious problem." read more

My son learned more during one year Zoom classes at Riverside Drive than during four years in person classes at Saticoy Elementary. So thankful to have a great teacher like Ruvelcaba. read more

This has not been a normal school year, and our son's Kindergarten teacher, Mrs Bohorquez and the staff have been doing an excellent job normalizing this situation. From daily ZOOMs, to transitioning into a classroom. We are grateful for all their hard work! read more

We just transferred this year to Riverside from another highly rated public school in the valley and couldn't be more happy with our choice. Riverside is a small, well-managed and sweet school with lovely down-to-earth families. It is been a really nice contrast to the previous school we were at. The academic workload is very manageable and appropriate and so far our experience with the teachers and staff has been great. My son has Ms. Sher and she is a fantastic teacher that is vibrant alive and has a true love of teaching. The school is very well run with the new principal Mrs. Richardson Who is approachable, responsible, and kind. The kids have just started back in person and the transition has been seamless. In addition, our teacher made zoom learning as positive of experience as it could be.We originally hesitated to come here because of the average rating, but in hindsight I realize that the quality of the teachers and the down-to-earth nature of the families really does make this school a hidden gem. read more

We are so happy to be a part of the Riverside family. My daughter is in 3rd grade this year and has been at Riverside since Kinder. We love this school Fantastic teachers. Amazing, caring, principal. And fabulous diverse families. We love Riverside! read more

This is our second year at the school and we are so much happier this year. Last year there was so much craziness because there was a war between parents who were pro principal Doucette and those who were not. Being new last year, we weren't involved with the politics, but had a very difficult time because everything was so unorganized and the principal was inaccessible. She wouldn't return phone calls and it was almost impossible to get a meeting with her. The school event calendar kept changing and even the times for the holiday concert weren't announced until 2 days before. As a working mom, I couldnt find out when my son's class was performing and it was very frustrating. I am sad that the school doesn't have the same programs as last year and the enrichment programs this year with Star are good, but the scheduling of them is not convenient. But this year, feels a bit tough, with everyone adjusting to the change. I really like the new principal, Ms. Haynes. I always see her on the playground in the morning greeting students, she returns calls and seems genuinely interested in being a principal. She is also engaging and as a parent, I feel like I know what is going on ahead of time. I'm very happy with the change and feel confident, once things adjust, our school will be top notch again. I also want to give a shout out to our incredible teachers. We are in kinder this year and have Ms. Chavez and she's amazing. I'm so grateful that our child attends this school. read more

Now that my son has completed his very first year here at Riverside, I can write a review. I absolutely love this school. My brother attended Riverside Drive in the mid-late 90's and my parents couldn't be happier. The safety of our children is very important to Ms. Haynes (the wonderful, kind hearted, humble principal). The teachers here are so dedicated to teaching. The only downside ....which I know most public elementary schools have is the cafeteria food (that's a problem that LAUSD should fix). The area is very safe, parents are involved, and the school spirit is phenomenal! I cannot wait until my younger one begins the elementary level. *side note* Mr. Burrell (kindergarten teacher) is simply the BEST! We were so fortunate to have him as our Kindergarten teacher this year! We love Riverside Drive!!! read more

Ms Sher was the best teacher - ever Too bad she was my sons teacher in 3 rd grade only . She was truly caring and a good educator. Otherwise , we pulled my son out after 3ed grade. Kids get bullied and no one can so anything !! Classes are overcrowded and no supplies . Ki read more

Our son is in kindergarten at Riverside and is EXTREMELY happy there. 1. The new principal, Ms. Haynes, is amazing! She is aware of and involved in everything that goes on at the school, and spends long hours to help it reach its greatest potential. She makes sure that nothing is overlooked and that everything is executed to the letter. On top of being very detailed oriented, she is a parent who is great with the kids and is very receptive to parent input. We are lucky to have her. 2. All of the teachers that we have interacted with are dedicated to both the students and school, and are focused on supporting the children academically, socially, and emotionally. The kindergarten team is an enthusiastic cohort who have fostered an environment of joyful learning. 3. There is a core group of invested parents in governance and the newly formed PTA who are deeply committed to ensuring that Riverside is a competitive, nurturing, and community environment. As a charter and a public school, it is essential that parents show up, and donate their time, money, and hearts into this hidden gem of a school. Involvement is key! 4. Our absolute favorite things about the school are the down-to-earth community feel and the diversity. Aside from being academically content, our son is socially and emotionally gratified every single day. He is always excited to go to school and is constantly stating how happy he is that he gets to go to Riverside for the next five years. 5. Lastly. Yes, it's true that the school hit a rough patch in the 2016-2017 year. Before we entered the school, I was aware of the turmoil surrounding the last principal and the conflicts between parents. We as a family took a leap of faith, and have been very pleased. From the new principal Ms. Haynes who has identified the ways in which the school can improve and is methodically working to make it happen, to the teachers, parents, and student body, it is apparent that everyone is committed toward making Riverside the place to be. This school has tenacity. This school has grit. This school is focused on the end goal. But most importantly, this school has heart. read more

Much improved from last year! Ms. Rosenstein and Ms. Smith are great teachers. read more

Riverside Drive Charter School is a great school. The teachers are fabulous and I cannot say enough about the quality of education that my children have received over the years. As an affiliated charter, RDCS has the opportunity to provide programs that other schools do not. Our teachers are dedicated to ensuring that programs such as the garden, drama, science, PE and so forth are implemented at the highest possible standards, meeting and exceeding the START Charter Guidelines. Our Science Fair is one to be rivaled! The parents of the school are very active and committed to providing our teachers with the tools necessary to excel in the classroom. Ms Haynes is the new Principal that is very professional and is really creating an environment with good school spirit, camaraderie and high academic achievements. I am proud to be a member of the RDCS community and thankful that my children are happy and thriving at their local elementary school. read more

I have a 1st grader and a 5th grader. My 1st grader has been at Riverside for 2 years now and my 5th grader for 3 years. They love this school. My older kid was at another school and didn't like it. But here the Principal is very nice and interacting with the kids. My kids feel very safe and happy here. I would recommend this school to anyone. I would like to thank The Principal and all the teachers that we have had for their outstanding job. read more

My 2 daughters came to riverside drive and now my grandson. Both of my daughter's can tell you that they loved coming here. I tried to be active in all of that PTA stuff and I really liked how all of the staff were very concerned with the kid's getting the best out of their education. Lots of great teachers. The school is always kept clean for the most part. My children received a great education from them. They always pushed for my daughter's to be in advanced classes and they are very thankful for that, since it helped them in their future education. The campus is safe, and one again, the education is exceptional. I highly recommend this school from one mother to another. read more

The school is great and small... Look, it's public school so as a parent you have to be involved. You have to be open to donating. You have to participate and lobby for your kid. My son was identified as fast learning and his teacher took it upon himself to give next grade level course books. The teachers care and love the children. I couldn't be happier. Not sure why greatschools.org has it rated as low as it is. I highly recommend considering this sweet neighborhood school. read more

My daughter went to Kindergarten here for less than 2 months and had an awful experience. Truly, the staff could care less about the children. They are way overcrowded and the kids do not get any individulaized attention. My Daughter was scared one day (who isn't in the first weeks of Kindergarten) and her teacher could care less. The front office was the same. We pulled her out and it was the best decision we could have made. I also have a Friend who had a similar expereience! We pay for private school now, and even though it's hard financially, it's SO worth it. read more

Such a good school friendly community. All parents are here to help better their kids education and better the school.

Principal Doucette and the Teachers at Riverside Drive Charter School are FANTASTIC! They make you feel welcome and a partner in your child's education. They focus on the education of the whole child. Both of my children attended the school from Kindergarten to culmination and I've volunteered thousands of hours. Currently a handful of vicious unscrupulous self-serving parents, and parent group, (PFRD) board members are undermining the school community with lies and a waged smear campaign against the Principal; harassing teachers and staff. They are the worst kinds of villain, willing to do anything to achieve their goals. Some of their children are abhorrently disrespectful and have behavioral problems. Somehow they have convinced themselves that honesty and decency are unimportant. They are aggressive bullies and crooks! There are concerns regarding parent donations and budget distribution, but if anyone questions their practices and rightfully expects budget transparency, they go on the defensive, play the victim, and later conspire to decimate the inquisitors' character with never providing an answer to membership. LAUSD needs to reform their policies and protect its administrators and teachers from erroneous lies and harassment. Principal Doucette is personable, intelligent, fun, kind, and a true collaborator with parents and her staff. She doesn't have a mean bone in her body and the children love her. When you send your child/children to Riverside, you can feel confident that they will be well looked after and their minds nourished. I recommend Riverside for parents that want a caring environment for their children and to be a valued partner in their childs education. Don't give your money to PFRD! Donate directly to the people who know what is needed and who's only concern is for the children of Riverside Drive Charter. Lastly, Ms. Doucette does not wear stilettos. She wears platforms, pumps and, many other types of high heels, boots and shoes. Her shoes are most definately... not cheap, AND SO WHAT IF THEY WERE! I can't figure a reason to judge her shoes...but that's just me. J.D, you are perfectly entitled to your opinion. read more

It's a sweet school. It's gone through a rough transition lately, but the spirit of the school community is still warm, diverse and fun. The new principal is a by-the-book kinda gal but great. And it's sort of what the school needed at the moment. We loved the old principal, but everybody got sort of complacent and that brings issues. I think by the 2018-2019 school year, it may be back to normal. We've been there for four years and I'm really happy we came. read more

Please contact me if you or someone you know went to school here in the 1950s approx. 1950 to about 1956--Thank you!

If I could give this school 10 stars I would. Better yet, I'd give the principal 100 stars because she lights up this school. The school is not overcrowded, it is held up to the same student to teacher ratio as other schools. I cannot speak to what happened to Jamie D but I had a child go through K-5 and culminate and another child currently in 3rd grade there. Kindergarten was phenomenal!! FYI, my daughter only had 18 students in her kindergarten class. The principal is beautifully dressed so perhaps Jamie D is confused as to who is the principal. A disaster? Does a school with a computer lab, science lab, upper and lower garden, a Wonder of Reading Library, a Drama department, etc. etc. etc., not sound like a disaster? Not to me. Please call the school, schedule a tour. See for yourself. You will love it!! read more

I'm the parent of a third grade student at Riverside and we absolutely adore this school. It is a wonderfully diverse neighborhood school with an involved parent community. The heart of this school are its dedicated teachers - my daughter has been so lucky to be taught by both seasoned professionals and passionate newcomers - the wonderful Miss Bleier whose classroom was always covered in art and filled with music in 1st grade, Mr. Brandy in 2nd grade whose love of Roald Dahl was so infectious my daughter came home beyond excited to read all the great books he shared with the class. And now with Ms. Sher in 3rd grade who supports her students as they shift from learning to read to "reading to learn" and has challenged my daughter to become a stronger writer. Ms Sher has a love of knowledge and of understating the world around us that she shares with her students - keeping their natural curiosity alive. I walked the picket lines with these teachers during the strike this year and saw first hand what they were giving up to create a better learning environment for our children - the teachers at this school are so passionate, supportive of one another and so inclusive of the parent community, this school has been a wonderful fit for my daughter. read more

We have been at this school now 5 years. It was WONDERFUL the last 3 years. School was upbeat, ALL the parents got a long, the kids were excited to be there. I believe we all had fun. It made you want to be a kid again and attend the school. The last two years, and I'm going to be honest here, because the other reviews are not. This school has fallen by the wayside. Just this past summer 6 (teachers, Vice Principal, etc.) staff members left over the summer and don't be surprised if more staff are gone at the end of this school year, attendance is at an all time LOW and tardiness is at an all time HIGH. Parents have removed their kids from this school this year already. The kids don't have a computer teacher anymore, the garden is there but the kids don't go to it and plant anything, science is not taught in all the grades, there is no designated PE teacher; the teachers are the ones who are responsible for it, so your child might get a little exercise here and there, drama class is not an everyday class. The kids only attend that if they are doing a performance for the parents. The parents are NOT active and committed like they use to be. The moral is GONE.... I will say the Teachers are FANTASTIC, my daughter has had some great teachers. The kids truly get the education they need here at Riverside read more