Teachers work hard with students to promote an environment of respect, compassion, and empathy. Through service learning projects, students develop a positive attitude towards others and towards the environment. Students are given many opportunities to become valued citizens in the community.

During the 2004-05 school year, local bond funds, Measure J, and state matching funds were used to modernize all schools with the exception of Austin Creek, which is six years old, and Village School, which was modernized in the late 1980’s. However, Village School received modernization of their multi-use facility and administrative wing.

All classrooms in the other five schools had new wall surfaces, paint, new lighting, cabinetry, new heating systems, upgraded electrical systems, window coverings, flooring, and marker boards. Each multi-use facility was completely modernized also. A new state of the art library media center and kindergarten complex were built. The administrative wing of each school was modernized to include small classrooms for special student programs, a staff room, and office and conference rooms.

District maintenance staff ensures that the prevention measures and repairs necessary to keep the school in good repair and working order are completed in a timely manner. A work order process is used to ensure efficient service and that emergency repairs and safety are given the highest priority.

Cleaning: Cleaning standards have been adopted for all schools in the district. The Maintenance and Operations supervisor meets regularly with the custodial staff and visits sites regularly to ensure the cleaning standards are being upheld. In addition, the principal works daily with the custodial staff to ensure a clean and safe school.

Deferred Maintenance: The district participates in the State School Deferred Maintenance Program, which provides state matching funds on a dollar-for-dollar basis, to assist school districts with expenditures for major repair or replacement of existing school building components. Typically, this includes roofing, plumbing, heating, air conditioning, electrical systems, interior or exterior painting, and floor systems. For the 2006-07 school year, the district budgeted $502,000 for the deferred maintenance program. The state gives the district $107,672, and the district contribution is $110,005 by state formula. This represents 1/2 of 1% of the district’s general fund budget.

The RVCS leadership team consists of a principal, who has 12 years’ experience in school administration.

The instructional mission of the school emphasizes standards-based, active, hands-on learning. Academic and community service projects are key components of the program. Core instructional materials are state adopted. Materials are evaluated by teacher committees before purchase. The core curriculum consists of Language Arts, History, Mathematics (including Algebra), and Science. In addition, students receive instruction in Spanish and Physical Education. A variety of electives are offered each trimester.

Supports and services are provided to meet the students' special needs.

GATE – Gifted and Talented Education – students are identified for services both within the regular classroom and by supplemental classes. At-risk students receive academic support through tutoring programs and summer school. English language learners are taught by a classroom teacher trained in instructional strategies to meet the students individual needs. Students with disabilities receive services from a resource teacher, speech and language therapist, and other support personnel. Student placement and services are identified in the student’s IEP – Individualized Educational Plan. The focus is the mastery of district and state standards.

Assessment of student progress is measured in many ways. Classroom teachers in all subject areas assess students regularly. The SAM – Standards Assessment in Mathematics – is administered in the fall and again in the spring. All state mandated tests are given annually.