January 31, 2023
Dear Riley Families:
¡Bienvenidos! Welcome to Riley Dual Language Montessori School. We are a diverse school community welcoming all students, preparing them for success in higher education, post-educational opportunities, work, and citizenship. Our program is distinctive in its blend of Dual Language education in a Montessori environment.
Our culturally diverse staff represent citizens of the United States, Mexico, Puerto Rico, the Dominican Republic and Chile. They bring a rich understanding of the Spanish language and Latin cultures to our school. The classroom teachers are Montessori certified. Their many perspectives on culture, language, and learning provide a truly one-of-a-kind, hands-on experience for the students and families.
Our students and families live in the neighborhood and across the city of Milwaukee. Some are born in the United States and others come from abroad. Some families only speak English at home. Others represent different cultures that speak Spanish. All students learn in both languages and participate in creating a community of learners that bridges many cultures.
I have been privileged to be the principal at Riley during the transition from a more traditional school to this exciting dual language Montessori program. I have professionally and personally grown through the process of change. It is an honor to guide the staff in meeting the challenges of creating a distinctive school environment where children are truly at the heart of learning. Students are given the opportunity to explore concepts and skills at their own pace, using high-quality Montessori materials. Families are given the support needed to assist their child in applying what is learned at school in the home. Together – staff, students, and families – we are Riley.
Sincerely,
Harry Russo, Principal