Best Schools in Riverdale for Your Kids

When moving to Riverdale, finding the right school for your kids is often at the top of the list. Luckily, Riverdale has plenty of great options, including public, private, and charter schools. Whether your child thrives in a traditional setting or needs something a little different, there’s a school here to meet their needs. Let’s take a closer look at the best schools in Riverdale and how to choose the right one for your family.

Public Schools in Riverdale

Most of Riverdale’s public schools are part of the Clayton County Public Schools system. These schools are designed to support students’ growth both inside and outside the classroom.

• Riverdale Elementary School
  A warm and welcoming school with a strong focus on early education, Riverdale Elementary also offers after-school programs for busy parents.
• Kendrick Middle School
  Known for its focus on science, technology, arts, and sports, Kendrick Middle gives students lots of ways to explore their interests.
• Charles Drew High School
  This high school offers advanced placement (AP) classes, college prep, and career-focused programs in areas like healthcare and business.

Learn more about neighborhoods near these schools in our cornerstone article: Family-Friendly Neighborhoods in Riverdale.

Private and Charter Schools

If you’re looking for something different from public schools, Riverdale also has private and charter schools that offer specialized programs.

• Riverdale Christian Academy
  A small, faith-based school that emphasizes reading, math, and building strong character.
• Elite Scholars Academy
  A magnet school for grades 6–12 that helps students get ready for top colleges.
• The Main Street Academy
  This tuition-free charter school focuses on science, technology, engineering, arts, and math (STEAM), offering hands-on learning for creative minds.
• Unidos Dual Language Charter School
  A bilingual school where students learn in both English and Spanish, preparing them for a global future.

Explore how schools like these influence real estate decisions in our article: Top 5 Riverdale Neighborhoods for First-Time Buyers.

Special Programs and Resources

Riverdale schools also offer programs to meet a wide range of needs:

• Gifted Programs: Advanced classes for students who need an extra challenge.
• ESL (English as a Second Language): Help for students learning English.
• Clubs and Activities: Sports, music, robotics, and more to help kids explore their interests and talents.

Getting to School: Maps and Zoning

It’s important to know which schools your kids can attend based on where you live. Use these tools to figure it all out:

• Clayton County Public Schools District Maps
  See which schools are closest to your neighborhood.
• School and Bus Route Locator
  Find out which school your child is zoned for and check bus schedules.

Learn how these tools can assist you during a move in our blog: The Ultimate Moving Guide for Riverdale.

How Schools Affect Your Neighborhood Choice

The school your kids attend can influence where you choose to live. Neighborhoods like River’s Edge and Lake Ridge are close to some of the top-rated schools, making them great choices for families.

Helpful Tips for Parents

• Check Ratings: Visit websites like GreatSchools.org to see reviews and ratings for local schools.
• Visit the Schools: A tour can help you get a feel for the environment and meet the teachers.
• Ask About Activities: Extracurriculars like sports and music can make school even more rewarding for your kids.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. Are public schools in Riverdale free?
   Yes! Public schools in Riverdale are tuition-free for families who live in the district.
2. How can I get my child into a charter school?
   Charter schools usually use a lottery system. Be sure to apply early to secure your spot.
3. What if my child needs extra help?
   Clayton County Public Schools offer special programs and resources, including tutoring, ESL support, and programs for students with special needs.

Conclusion

Riverdale has a variety of schools to fit your family’s needs, whether you’re looking for strong academics, specialized programs, or extracurricular activities. If you’re thinking about moving to Riverdale, I’d love to help you find a home near the perfect school for your child.

Have questions about schools or neighborhoods in Riverdale? Reach out to me, Johnnie Benton, at (470) 885-8804 or jebentonsr@gmail.com, and let’s get started on finding the right fit for your family!