Dear Riverwood Families,

It is with great excitement and gratitude that I introduce myself as the new principal of Riverwood Elementary. From my first interactions with members of the school community, it’s clear that Riverwood is an exceptional school—grounded in strong relationships, dedicated educators, and a deep commitment to student success. I am truly honored to join this remarkable team.

Professionally, I bring experience as both a classroom teacher and school leader. I began my career teaching in the elementary grades, later serving as an assistant principal at a PreK–5 dual language school in Waukegan. For the past few years, I’ve had the privilege of supporting students and staff as an assistant principal at a middle school in Libertyville. These experiences have shaped my deep belief in the power of partnership, equity, and joyful learning.

I am passionate about creating a school environment where all students feel seen, supported, and inspired to grow. My leadership is rooted in collaboration, and I look forward to working alongside families and staff to foster an inclusive, positive school culture for every learner.

I also want to share that, while I’m not a native speaker, I do speak Spanish and am always happy to communicate in Spanish to the best of my ability. Supporting all families—especially our multilingual community—is very important to me, and I will always do my best to make sure everyone feels welcome and heard.

As we look ahead to the new school year, I am excited to begin building strong, lasting relationships with our students, families, and staff. Together, I know we will continue to grow a vibrant and supportive school community where all children can thrive.

With gratitude and enthusiasm,

Valerie Rivera

Estimadas familias de Riverwood:

Con gran entusiasmo y gratitud me presento como la nueva directora de la Escuela Primaria Riverwood. Desde mis primeras interacciones con los miembros de la comunidad escolar, es evidente que Riverwood es una escuela excepcional, cimentada en relaciones sólidas, educadores dedicados y un profundo compromiso con el éxito estudiantil. Es un verdadero honor para mí unirme a este extraordinario equipo.

Profesionalmente, aporto experiencia como docente y líder escolar. Comencé mi carrera como maestra en primaria y posteriormente fui subdirectora en una escuela bilingüe de preescolar a quinto grado en Waukegan. Durante los últimos años, he tenido el privilegio de apoyar a estudiantes y personal como subdirectora en una escuela secundaria en Libertyville. Estas experiencias han forjado mi profunda convicción en el poder de la colaboración, la equidad y el aprendizaje con alegría.

Me apasiona crear un ambiente escolar donde todos los estudiantes se sientan valorados, apoyados e inspirados para crecer. Mi liderazgo se basa en la colaboración, y espero trabajar junto con las familias y el personal para fomentar una cultura escolar inclusiva y positiva para cada estudiante. También quiero compartir que, aunque no soy hablante nativo, hablo español y siempre me complace comunicarme en español lo mejor que puedo. Apoyar a todas las familias, especialmente a nuestra comunidad multilingüe, es muy importante para mí, y siempre haré todo lo posible para asegurarme de que todos se sientan bienvenidos y escuchados.

Al comenzar el nuevo año escolar, me entusiasma comenzar a construir relaciones sólidas y duraderas con nuestros estudiantes, familias y personal. Juntos, sé que seguiremos desarrollando una comunidad escolar vibrante y solidaria donde todos los niños puedan prosperar.

Con gratitud y entusiasmo,

Valerie Rivera

Welcome Riverwood Families!

Here at Riverwood, we follow the three Rascal Rules focusing on Being Safe, Being Responsible, and Being Respectful! Our goal is to create new relationships and connections with families, staff, and students to make every student a successful, lifelong learner. Partnering home and school is critical as it only enhances your child’s education. My goal is to connect with all families throughout your child’s educational journey here at Riverwood!