Welcome to Riverside

Dear R2 Family,

Welcome to the 2026–2027 school year. As we begin another year of learning, growth, and opportunity, I want to personally thank you for choosing Riverside Elementary School District (R2) and for the trust and confidence you place in us each day.

At R2, we believe that student success is built through a strong partnership between home and school. When families and educators work together, students develop the confidence, skills, and support systems needed to thrive academically, socially, and emotionally. We deeply value your involvement and look forward to strengthening these partnerships throughout the year.

Every child who enters our schools brings unique talents, interests, aspirations, and unlimited potential. Our commitment is to provide an educational experience that nurtures those strengths while inspiring students to reach new levels of achievement. We strive to create learning environments where students feel safe, respected, supported, and empowered to discover their passions and pursue their goals.

Our exceptional teachers and staff are at the heart of this mission. Through engaging instruction, meaningful relationships, and an unwavering commitment to student success, they create classrooms where curiosity is encouraged, innovation is embraced, and learning comes to life. We are proud of the positive culture that exists throughout our schools and the lasting impact our educators have on students each day.

As we look to the future, we remain committed to reimagining what public education can be. Our vision is to create an educational experience that brings together the innovation and flexibility often associated with charter schools, the personalized attention and academic rigor found in private schools, and the accessibility, inclusiveness, and community commitment that define public education. We believe families should not have to choose between these strengths, and we are dedicated to ensuring that every student benefits from the best each model has to offer.

As we look ahead, we recognize that our students are entering a future shaped by rapid technological advancement and innovation. Artificial intelligence and automation are transforming industries and creating opportunities that did not exist just a few years ago. While technology will continue to play an important role in their lives, the qualities that will set students apart are their ability to think critically, communicate effectively, work collaboratively, adapt to change, and lead with integrity. Our responsibility is to provide students with the knowledge, skills, and character they need not only to succeed in the future, but to help shape it.

A cornerstone of this work is our STEM² initiative, which focuses on science, technology, engineering, mathematics, and medicine. Through hands-on learning and real-world experiences, students have opportunities to apply what they learn in the classroom while exploring careers in growing industries. In partnership with Banner Health, Abrazo Health, colleges and universities, and local business and industry leaders, we are helping students gain valuable exposure to fields that are shaping the future. As technology continues to evolve, we remain committed to ensuring students develop the academic foundation, practical skills, and critical thinking abilities needed to succeed in college, careers, and life.

This year, we are also excited to expand opportunities for students through the launch of two signature initiatives. Our new 4th through 12th grade Athletic Powerhouse-Elite Sports is designed to provide students with advanced athletic training, competitive development opportunities, and a comprehensive system for success both on and off the field. By creating a seamless feeder system that connects elementary, junior high, and high school athletics, we are establishing a unified culture of excellence focused on developing elite student athletes and outstanding scholars. This intentional approach will provide students with access to high-quality coaching and state-of-the-art facilities, helping to establish one of the premier athletic programs in the county.

We are also proud to launch the Institute for Medicine, an advanced pre-medical program that will introduce students to healthcare careers through hands-on learning experiences, mentorship opportunities, and partnerships with healthcare professionals and organizations. The program will give students early exposure to the many career pathways within healthcare while helping them build an understanding of the knowledge, skills, and dedication required in the medical field. Together, these initiatives reflect our commitment to expanding opportunities for students, helping them explore their interests, and preparing them for future success.

What makes R2 truly special is our shared belief in the potential of every child. R2 is more than a school district; it is a family united by a common purpose and a commitment to excellence. Together, we are creating a community where students feel valued, families feel connected, and learning is meaningful and inspiring.

Thank you for your continued partnership, encouragement, and support. We are excited about the year ahead and look forward to celebrating the growth, achievements, and milestones of our students. Together, we will continue to provide meaningful opportunities that help every child reach their full potential.

I wish you and your family a successful, rewarding, and memorable school year.

Warm regards,

Dr. Jaime A. Rivera

Dr. Jaime A. Rivera
Superintendent of Schools/CEO
Riverside Elementary School District No. 2