The Riverside School Needham is a 766 approved, private, nonprofit, therapeutic day school developed to meet the academic and therapeutic needs of adolescent in grades 6 through 12.
We specialize in educating teens with complex Behavioral Health Disorders including Mood Disorders and Anxiety Disorders.
We offer a low student to teacher ratio with highly skilled educational and clinical professionals.
Our small highly structured classroom setting, combined with a strong academic foundation, is designed to meet the unique individual needs of each student.
We provide comprehensive therapeutic supports to enhance personal growth through group, individual, and family therapeutic models.
Our program includes ongoing consultation to students and families in order for students to transition to a less restrictive educational environment.
Students are offered guided learning opportunities and practical application of learned skills.
We are here to provide a strong foundation of life and educational skills essential for being a successful and productive member of the community.
Our services are based on a comprehensive assessment of each student`s individual profileand collaboration with the student, family, and referring school system.
Our curriculum is aligned with the Massachusetts Curriculum Frameworks and embraces the Common Core Curriculum in English and Mathematics.
We offer a strength-based affirmative behavior system, strong clinical supports, family involvement and individual action plans.
Quick Stats (2025)
- Top Ranked MA School
- School Type: Special Education School
- Grades: 9-12
- Enrollment: 4 students
- Yearly Tuition: $25,000
- Acceptance rate: 25%
- Average class size: 8 students
- Application Deadline: None / Rolling
- Source: Verified school update
Top Rankings
Riverside School ranks among the top 20% of private schools in Massachusetts for:
Category
Attribute
Acceptance Rate
School Overview
School Type
School Membership(s)School Assoc.
Religious Affiliation
Grades Offered
Grades 9-12
ADD/ADHD Support
Yes
Learning Difference Programs
Yes
Year Founded
1994
Summer School Offered
Yes
School Calendar
First Day of School
Sun. Aug 31, 2025
Student Body
Total Students
4 students
Student Body Type
Co-ed
% Students of Color
50%
State avg.: 29%
Students by Grade
Academics and Faculty
Total Classroom Teachers
2 teachers
Student : Teacher Ratio
2:1
National avg.:
% Faculty w/Advanced Degree
2%
Average Class Size
8 students
List of Courses Offered
Classroom Dress Code
Casual
Tuition and Acceptance Rate
Admission Deadline
None / Rolling
Yearly Tuition Cost
$25,000
Acceptance Rate
25%
National avg.: 81%
Application URL
Source: Verified school update
Frequently Asked Questions
How much does Riverside School cost?
Riverside School's tuition is approximately $25,000 for private students.
What is the acceptance rate of Riverside School?
The acceptance rate of Riverside School is 25%, which is lower than the national average of 71%. Riverside School's acceptance rate is ranked among the top private schools in Massachusetts with low acceptance rates.
What is Riverside School's ranking?
Riverside School ranks among the top 20% of private schools in Massachusetts for: Lowest average acceptance rates.
When is the application deadline for Riverside School?
The application deadline for Riverside School is rolling (applications are reviewed as they are received year-round).
Related Schools
Show me:
People that viewed Riverside School also viewed these schools: Edco Secondary Education Prog, Learning Prep School, Boston College Campus School, Walker School and Pallotta Day School.
The nearest high school and elementary school to Riverside School is Integrated Learning Academy Newton School (0.3 miles away)
The nearest preschool is Happy Child Preschool/day Care Center (0.3 miles away)
Show me:
Show me:
School
Location
Miles
Grades
Students
Edco Secondary Education Prog
Special Education School
Grades: 6-12 | 38 students 2.9 miles 360 Lowell Ave
Newtonville, MA 02460
(617) 244-3407
Newtonville, MA 02460
(617) 244-3407
2.9
6-12
38
Grades: 5-12 | 126 students 3 miles 1507 Washington St
West Newton, MA 02465
(617) 965-0764
West Newton, MA 02465
(617) 965-0764
3
5-12
126
Grades: 1-12 | 26 students 3.4 miles Campion Hall Rm. 197
Chestnut Hill, MA 02467
(617) 552-3223
Chestnut Hill, MA 02467
(617) 552-3223
3.4
1-12
26
Grades: Inquire with school | 86 students 4 miles 1968 Central Ave
Needham, MA 02492
(781) 449-4500
Needham, MA 02492
(781) 449-4500
4
Inquire with school
86
Pallotta Day School
Special Education School
Grades: 2-8 | 28 students 4.9 miles 1125 Centre St
Jamaica Plain, MA 02130
(617) 522-5221
Jamaica Plain, MA 02130
(617) 522-5221
4.9
2-8
28
School Reviews
Endorse Riverside School. Endorsements should be a few sentences in length. Please include any comments on:
- Quality of academic programs, teachers, and facilities
- Availability of music, art, sports and other extracurricular activities
- Academic or athletic awards
Recent Articles
Is It Easier to Land a 17³Ô¹Ï Job When You're Already Employed?
Is it easier to land a private school job when you're already employed? This article breaks down employer biases, networking advantages, and negotiation leverage—plus the latest hiring trends in independent schools. If you’re considering a move, here’s how to maximize your position.
How to Secure a 17³Ô¹Ï Job When You're Unemployed Without the Stigma
Finding a private school job while unemployed can be tough, but it doesn't have to hold you back. This article breaks down networking strategies, ways to stand out, and smart approaches to keep your confidence strong. Learn how to turn setbacks into strengths and secure the right opportunity—without the stigma.
The 17³Ô¹Ï Job Hunt: Insider Tips for Employed & Unemployed Educators
Navigating the private school job market? Whether you're employed or unemployed, the right strategy can make all the difference. This article breaks down essential steps to keep your resume sharp, expand your network, and stay visible in the education community. Learn insider tips to position yourself for success in private schools.
