Richland is an International Baccalaureate (IB) and Reggio Emilia-inspired school serving students from Junior Kindergarten to Grade 8. The school is authorized to offer the IB Primary Years Programme (PYP) and is currently a Candidate School for the IB Middle Years Programme (MYP). The school's administration has a history of innovation, adding their own distinctive touch to various aspects of the school. One notable example is the house system, which forms the foundation of the school’s community. The house names—Fox, Suzuki, Webstad, and Wickenheiser—symbolize the school’s values and culture of care. These elements reflect a deep commitment to service and engagement that permeates the school environment. While the instructional programs are strong, it is often the school’s culture and values that serve as a primary draw for families.
We questioned the school adminstration
1. Who are you, as a school?
"Richland Academy is a progressive, innovative Reggio-inspired and International Baccalaureate (IB) PYP and MYP Authorized School for children from Kindergarten to Grade 8. We are a community of learners who are active, responsible, and compassionate global citizens. At Richland we cultivate students who are deeper thinking, confident, and world ready. “Voted #1 Private School in Richmond Hill by The Readers’ Choice in 2015, 2016, 2017, 2018, and Top Choice Awards in 2021, 2022, 2023, 2024 and 2025!”"
Richland Academy - IB World School with Reggio-inspired learning from K to Grade 8.
Innovative PYP Authorized, MYP Candidate School shaping confident, world-ready students.
Voted #1 Private School in Richmond Hill multiple times for educational excellence.
Fostering active, responsible, and compassionate global citizens in our vibrant community.
Cultivating deeper thinkers through progressive education at the heart of our mission.
Experience dynamic and engaging learning environments that spark curiosity and growth.
Our dynamic learning community is a vibrant hub for young, curious minds.
2. What do you do differently and uniquely well?
"At Richland Academy, we redefine educational excellence. What sets us apart is our fusion of Reggio-inspired creativity with the renowned International Baccalaureate (IB)...(more)
"At Richland Academy, we redefine educational excellence. What sets us apart is our fusion of Reggio-inspired creativity with the renowned International Baccalaureate (IB) framework. Our approach goes beyond traditional learning, cultivating active, responsible, and compassionate global citizens. We pride ourselves on shaping confident, world-ready thinkers from Kindergarten to Grade 8. With IB PYP and MYP authorization, we lead the way in innovative education."
3. What tradeoffs has your school made to serve families in this way?
Information not yet available.
4. What key junctures in your school's history have most shaped its present?
Information not yet available.
5. What type of student is a good fit for your school?
Information not yet available.
6. Under what conditions would you advise a family against choosing your school?
Information not yet available.
7. To your knowledge, why do families choose your school over others?
"Our unique blend of Reggio-inspired creativity and the globally recognized International Baccalaureate (IB) framework sets us apart. Voted #1 Private School in Richmond Hill...(more)
"Our unique blend of Reggio-inspired creativity and the globally recognized International Baccalaureate (IB) framework sets us apart. Voted #1 Private School in Richmond Hill multiple times, our dynamic community thrives on continuous improvement. Families appreciate our dedication to each child's potential, creating an environment where innovation, individuality, and academic achievement flourish. We empower students from Kindergarten to Grade 8 to become confident, world-ready thinkers."
8. How would you characterize your school's image amongst the public?
Information not yet available.
9. What aspect of your school is underappreciated?
"The underappreciated gem at Richland Academy is our incredible team. Beyond our exceptional educators, our administrative staff works tirelessly to ensure seamless operations....(more)
"The underappreciated gem at Richland Academy is our incredible team. Beyond our exceptional educators, our administrative staff works tirelessly to ensure seamless operations. They go above and beyond, contributing significantly to the school's success. From our office staff to the custodial team, every role plays a crucial part. It's this holistic effort that often goes unnoticed but is fundamental to our vibrant learning community."
10. What might families find surprising about your school?
"Our community is more than a school; it's a family. Perspective families are pleasantly surprised by the warm and welcoming embrace of our dedicated teachers and staff. Parents...(more)
"Our community is more than a school; it's a family. Perspective families are pleasantly surprised by the warm and welcoming embrace of our dedicated teachers and staff. Parents actively engage in the learning journey, creating a collaborative and supportive environment. At Richland, the sense of belonging goes beyond expectation. Our commitment to nurturing not only academic but also social and emotional growth sets us apart."
11. What improvements or changes has your school made recently?
Information not yet available.
12. How will your school change in the next 5 years?
JK to SK (current) — Watch our parent interview with Andrelle Chapman to get the inside scoop on what it’s like to have a child attend Richland Academy.
The Trusted Source for Families since 1998
