Message from the Principal

Welcome to River Valley School! We are home of the Rebels (bulldogs)! Our building houses all 2nd and 3rd grade students, which is roughly 550 students.

Currently, we have thirteen sections of 2nd grade and twelve sections of third grade. We believe that each child is unique, and it is our role and responsibility to build upon each child's strengths in a safe, welcoming, and nurturing environment.  The Common Core State Standards drive our instruction and practices. Knowing that children learn through a variety of learning styles, we incorporate various strategies and differentiate instruction to meet their varying needs. We also believe in preparing our children for 21st-century learning. As part of the 21st-century learning skills, we focus on the four C's, Critical Thinking, Collaboration, Communication, and Creativity. You will see this in action in our classrooms through a variety of media. We are 1:1 with technology, which allows for extended activities and problem-based learning. 

The 2022-2023 school year will be an exciting school year! I am so excited to continue my professional career at River Valley with all my former students. This will be my fourth year in SD113a and my first at RV. Prior to my professional career in Lemont, I was an Assistant Principal in East Aurora and taught middle school for eight years prior to administration.

I hold a Masters degree in Educational Administration from the University of North Central College. I earned a Bachelor of Liberal Arts and Sciences degree with an emphasis in English and an EL endorsement from Northern Illinois University. I am currently working on my doctorate at St. Francis University in Educational Leadership. My personal educational philosophy is that we educate the whole child with a large emphasis on social-emotional needs. I believe that starting the school year by establishing strong, lasting relationships with students and families is imperative to the success of our youngest learners.

I currently live in Tinley Park with my husband Tony and our bulldog Hank. Many of you may recognize Hank from our Twitter debut during remote learning. I enjoy running, reading, and spending time with friends and family.

Please know that we have an open-door policy. Do not hesitate to contact me via phone, email, or stop by in person. I am more than happy to discuss any concerns you may have throughout the school year. We are a team! An additional way to stay connected is through our Weekly RV Connection, which will be sent out to our families every Sunday.

I am looking forward to a fantastic and exciting school year with our River Valley Family, students, and families! 

Kate Koch, Principal