Letter from the Principal
Welcome to Riviera Hall! Founded in 1952, we aim to provide students with the academic, social, and spiritual experiences that will shape them into responsible global citizens.
The rigorous academic program allows students to stretch their thinking and leads the way for life-long learning. In addition to core subjects, our dynamic program includes art, gardening, Experium science courses, music, outdoor education and international field trips, honors classes and sports for middle school students, outreach programs and responsible use of technology.
Our talented and dedicated faculty are committed to forming positive relationships with our students and parents. As a community of faith, we believe that providing our youth with a well-rounded education is necessary to developing their hearts and their minds.
The best way to experience the uniqueness of Riviera Hall is to visit our campus. Please make an appointment to spend some time at our School by the Sea!
Warmly,
Kelly McCabe
Our Principal
Kelly McCabe arrived at Riviera Hall in 2015 after a twenty year career at Chadwick School, a K-12 independent coeducational day school in Palos Verdes. During her career there she served as the Assistant Director of the Village School maintaining open communication with parents K-6. In addition to her responsibilities as Assistant Director, Kelly continued her presence in the classroom, teaching elective courses including Leadership and Wellness. She also served as the Program Director of the Chadwick Prep Summer Academic Program for students in grades 1-7. Prior to her role as the Assistant Director, Kelly was a full-time classroom teacher. She has experience teaching at the elementary and middle school levels. Kelly has a Bachelor’s degree in elementary education, a Master’s degree in Educational Psychology, and holds credentials in Multiple Subject and Administrative Services. Her approach to working with students, teachers and parents is based on respect and honesty. Kelly wants students to feel safe physically and emotionally so the community can foster a joy of learning.
Our Mission
Riviera Hall Lutheran School provides students with a Christ-centered experience which focuses on building character, integrity, community and academic success in a positive and nurturing environment.
Core Values
Our academic program empowers our students at every grade level, building the foundation for a successful school experience by providing a dynamic curriculum and instilling a fundamental work ethic. We firmly believe that the experience students receive at RHLS will not only enhance their intellectual potential, but will instill in them the moral character to become proactive citizens in today’s society. As a ministry of Resurrection Lutheran Church, our mission is actively supported by the members of the congregation who stand with the faculty and staff to ensure that our students achieve academic success and spiritual growth. This partnership is based on the Lutheran belief that educating our children is a vital element of our commitment to Jesus Christ and the Great Commission (Matthew 28:19).
Our dedicated faculty and staff seek to inspire students to pursue and value spiritual growth and academic excellence. We foster an environment where students can freely develop a personal relationship with God in Christ, and in which individual and social responsibility are founded upon Christian values. Embracing the whole child, RHLS curriculum affirms and recognizes the unique talents and gifts of each of its students, and challenges them to achieve their highest potential. Through local and international outreach programs, RHLS students practice Christian values, while learning the responsibilities they share as members of the global community. Our high standards for character, integrity and achievement are realized through the partnership of family, school and church.
Students are provided with a solid educational foundation. Building upon this foundation laid by each grade level, concepts of positive social interaction, problem solving, creative expression, sound study skills and high achievement are consistently reinforced throughout the school experience. The faculty is committed to cultivating independent learners who can use their individual strengths and confidence to become involved and aware citizens.
School Wide Learning Outcomes
Relationship with Christ
Teach students how to make deliberate and conscious Christ-centered life choices.
Instill morals and values to develop students of integrity.
High Academic Achievement
Motivate students to maximize their individual potential, creativity, and unique talents.
Build a core academic foundation that produces problem-solvers and critical thinkers.
Empower students to achieve high standards of excellence, encourage self-discovery, and ultimately reach individual mastery.
Life-Long Learners
Equip students with skills to overcome challenges with courage and confidence.
Guide students’ natural curiosity to develop a sense of self, independent thinking, and life-long learning.
Create a safe and nurturing environment in which all types of learners can excel.
Socially Responsible Citizens
Foster a personal commitment to service that makes a positive impact in the lives of others.
Instill an understanding and appreciation of cultural diversity and individual differences.
Develop effective communicators who listen and work willingly with others.
History
On September 12, 1952, The Elementary School of the Lutheran Church of the Resurrection opened with an enrollment of forty-eight pupils. There was a Kindergarten, First and Second grade with two teachers. The plan of the congregation of Resurrection Lutheran Church was to expand its elementary school to eighth grade. Presently, Riviera Hall has Kindergarten through eighth grades and a preschool. What we currently know as Rygh Hall, our fellowship hall and named after Pastor Marvin Rygh, was the original church of the Resurrection.
The school began drawing in more children and in 1956 eight rooms plus a school office were added. The Rev. Robert Giles became the Minister of Education and principal of the elementary school. By 1958 there were 190 students, thirteen teachers, secretaries and of course a custodian. It wasn’t until 1967 that a preschool was in the planning stages. Kindergarten moved from half-day to a full day program. Before and after-school care was provided and the name of the school was changed to Riviera Hall Lutheran School with Pastor Elmer Johnson as the principal. In 1968 the preschool opened its doors with Phyllis Birch as the Director.
More than half a century later, Riviera Hall has over 230 students and a staff of thirty-five. The vision of Resurrection Lutheran Church is still shining brightly.