Rome Elementary Schools -

Principal Message

Dear Students, Staff and Families,

It is my pleasure to welcome you to Ridge Mills Elementary School! As your principal, I am honored to lead a school known for its dedication to excellence, but most importantly, to children. Our caring and committed staff work diligently to motivate, encourage and inspire all students to learn and grow. We provide rigorous and engaging instruction in all core areas as well as in music, art, physical education, library, and computer. While high standards for students are universal, our team of educators makes a point to know the unique needs, learning styles and personalities of each student to support them to achieve their greatest potential.

We are equally committed to cultivating young people of high moral character. Ridge Mills offers a positive, friendly atmosphere where students can learn and grow. Kindness, dignity, respect, and safety are cornerstones of our daily practice. All members of our school family are appreciated for their worth and value.

At Ridge Mills, community is everything. Teamwork with families and the community lead to the best outcomes for students and we invite you to be an active partner in your child’s education. Whether it is as a volunteer, a member of our outstanding Parent Teacher Group (PTG) or a special event participant, we urge you to be involved.

SCHOOL HISTORY

Ridge Mills School first opened its doors in 1957. The school was completely renovated during the 2010 – 2011 school year. The project included freshly updated classrooms, a new cafeteria and stage area, a brand new playground and state of the art technology throughout the building. The school is located in the northern part of Rome and enjoys a large school yard complete with a walking trail and basketball courts.

The school has approximately 250 K-4 students. Ridge Mills is a tightly knit school community with strong parent involvement. The PTG and staff work together to provide students with family and school events that address community service, education, character, school spirit and sometimes just good times together.  Parents and community members share their time and talents with students which has strengthened and broadened their educational experience.  Parents volunteer to coach both girls and boys’ basketball teams for third and fourth grade students. This provides children with an opportunity to learn a sport and experience playing on a team.

Ridge Mills began their autistic inclusion program in 1990 and still considers it an enriching feature of the school that benefits all students. The school is lucky to have two volunteers from the Mohawk Valley Grandparent program to work with teachers and students in the classroom.

The Ridge Mills staff is committed to implementing the Common Core Learning Standards. Educators have participated in hours of professional development to be prepared to offer our students a rigorous curriculum that will enable all of them to reach their potential. Most importantly, we are committed to providing a safe and pleasant school climate where every child’s academic, social and emotional needs can be met.