Headmaster Max Roach Shares 2024 Expectations
Rivermont Collegiate is known for its forward-thinking programs, individualized attention for students in grades preschool through twelve, and a culture of excellence. That same attention is now also going to the Students First Act. Signed into law by Governor Kim Reynolds exactly a year ago on January 24th, 2023, the Students First Act allows Iowa families to choose the school that best suits them.
“We have seen this program’s positive impact,” said Headmaster Max Roach. “With small class sizes for more individualized attention and a faculty that holds advanced degrees, we are the top-ranked private school in Iowa and top 10% nationally, and we are excited to see more families taking advantage of the benefits of the Students First Act.”
“Students learn from an accomplished faculty that includes innumerable Master’s degrees and PhDs, a former UN Ambassador, several former college and university professors, and several authors. Rivermont provides an unmatched educational experience,” continued Roach.
The Students First Act helps Iowa families pay about $7,600 of the annual tuition (for each student). The funds must be used for tuition, fees, and other qualified education expenses through an Education Savings Account (ESA). Rivermont offers additional scholarship aid, bringing the total cost of attending private school well within reach for Iowans.
All students currently enrolled in public schools automatically qualify for ESA tuition funds, regardless of household income. Those already enrolled in nonpublic schools are subject to household income requirements.
“Many of our current families qualify for ESA funds this year, and we anticipate that most will be eligible next year. During the 2025-2026 school year, all students in Iowa will become eligible regardless of income,” said Roach.
Applications for the ESA will open from April 16th through the end of June. Students who were approved in the current school year (and are still Iowa residents) are automatically eligible for ESA funding in the 2024-2025 school year.
“Our kids really love it at Rivermont. You should have seen how excited Isaac was to see his teacher this morning,” said Lissa Henrichs, parent of pre-kindergarten and third-grade students. “They love their teachers and the school’s activities and take full advantage of Rivermont’s community. We’re a proud Rivermont family.”
“Students at Rivermont are part of an atmosphere unlike any other in the Quad Cities area,” said Roach. “We’re more than a basic private school — we’re a global village where local kids make friends with our boarding students from Europe, Asia, Africa, and Central and South America. It’s amazing to see our cultural diversity and the family atmosphere build those strong connections.”
For more information about Rivermont Collegiate, visit rivermontcollegiate.org. For more information on the Students First Act and eligibility, visit educate.iowa.gov/pk-12/educational-choice/education-savings-account.
About Rivermont Collegiate
Rivermont Collegiate is a nonsectarian, independent, multicultural college preparatory school for students two years old through twelfth grade. Located in the Quad Cities, the school serves local and global students to provide a rich cultural experience built on high expectations and individualized attention to help students excel.
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