We love our day school students; the students who live locally and live at home, not in the dorms. Here are a few Frequently Asked Questions about day student life.
What is the daily schedule at Rio?
The first class period begins at 8:00 a.m., and the final period of the day ends at 5:25 p.m., depending on a student’s schedule and last class or elective. Students enrolled in a science lab may need to arrive earlier, as labs begin at 7:45 a.m. Students who participate in extracurricular activities, such as athletics, may remain on campus later, with some practices running until 7:30 p.m.
Throughout the day, students may have free periods built into their schedules. During this time, they may study, complete assignments, or work to help contribute toward their school bills.
Where does my student go during the day if they don’t have a class?
Students may have free periods built into their school day. If they are not working, they may use this time to study in the library, spend time in the Student Center or at the front of campus, or get some exercise by walking or running the loop around campus.
Are meals provided?
Yes. Day students may enjoy two meals of their choice in the cafeteria each school day. The menu features global, organic cuisine, with vegan and gluten-free options available.
Can my student be involved in weekend activities such as Student Association events, clubs, or religious programming?
Day students are encouraged to participate in as many weekend activities as they would like. However, they must check in with a dean so staff are aware of their presence on campus and can provide appropriate supervision.
Does my family need to be a member of the Seventh-day Adventist Church to attend Rio?
No. Families are not required to be members of the Seventh-day Adventist Church to enroll. In fact, up to 35% of our families are not part of the denomination.
While all students take a Bible-based religion course appropriate to their grade level, we do not require a statement of faith or conversion. We value inclusivity and warmly welcome students and families from all faiths and backgrounds. The diversity within our student body is one of the greatest strengths of our school community.
How does Rio communicate with me about what’s happening with school events or plans?
The school office sends a weekly events newsletter titled “This Week at Rio.” This email is shared with students, staff, and families and provides important information about the upcoming week. It highlights upcoming events, schedule changes, athletic games, special activities, and includes important reminders and announcements to keep everyone informed and prepared.
In addition, Rio publishes a monthly digital newsletter, “Rio Rapids,” which features reports, stories, and highlights about what has been happening on campus.
In the event of an emergency, Rio communicates with families through the FACTS Parent Alert system, which sends text message updates to all parents.
Parents may monitor grades and attendance at any time through the FACTS Parent Portal website or mobile app.
Helpful Resources:
Rio School Calendar (updated regularly): www.Riolindo.org/calendar
(Please note: the most current weekly updates are always included in “This Week at Rio.”)
School Office: (707) 431-5100
Administrator on Duty Cell Phone: (707) 318-3298
What happens if my student is late or misses class due to a family emergency or doctor’s appointment?
Please call the school office or email Carmen Sandoval at csandoval@riolindo.org to notify the school of any student absences or tardies.
For pre-planned absences (such as family trips, appointments, etc.), students are required to complete an absence request form. The form can be picked up from and returned to the school office. This process ensures that students meet with their teachers in advance and make arrangements to complete any missed classwork. Absences will not be considered excused until the completed form has been submitted and parent/guardian communication has been received.
If a student needs to leave campus during school hours before their classes are finished, they must check out through the school office prior to leaving.
Please note that students with the highest attendance rates tend to perform better academically. Whenever possible, we encourage families to schedule appointments and trips during school breaks to help students stay on track with their learning.
How does Rio keep students safe?
Rio’s campus has a locked gate and security cameras throughout the campus. Staff supervisors patrol the campus and students must remain in supervised areas. During COVID, students are required to wear masks indoors and are encouraged to get vaccinated. Non-vaccinated students are tested weekly through our antigen testing program. We have had no COVID outbreaks so far.
How do we access the front gate?
A day student gate code will be activated prior to the school year starting for access to campus. The code is active Monday through Friday 7:15-6:00 pm. If you arrive outside those hours, you can use the gate call box to call “Rio office” and the Administrator on duty can let you in. As the safety of our students is of utmost importance, please don’t distribute this code out to anyone else, other than those who need to pick up/drop off your student.
Can parents volunteer to help with student life or activities?
Absolutely! We welcome and appreciate any support you’re willing to offer. Parents can get involved in athletics by coaching, cheering, providing snacks, or driving, assist with the Fall Festival by cooking or helping with booths, support fundraising efforts such as the golf tournament, silent auction, or finding sponsors, host student events at their homes, or contribute to teacher appreciation and prayer support, among other opportunities. Parents interested in volunteering should contact the school office to complete the volunteer clearing process and packet prior to getting involved. Our parent volunteers are an essential part of our community, and we are grateful for your involvement.
