River City Academy
Home of the Orcas!
Vision
River City Academy envisions a learning community where every student advances by demonstrating true mastery of essential skills and knowledge — not by seat time or age. Our vision is to redefine success in education by fostering self-direction, curiosity, and confidence so that each learner graduates prepared to thrive in college, career, and life.
Mission
River City Academy is a public, mastery-based school where students progress by demonstrating proficiency in Alaska’s academic standards rather than by earning traditional seat-time credit. While most learning takes place in structured classes, students advance through standards at a pace that reflects their individual growth—sometimes achieving mastery quickly, and other times taking the time they need to fully develop their skills. Our small-school environment emphasizes mentorship, reflection, and personalized feedback, helping every student build strong competencies, confidence, and readiness for life beyond school.
Contact
907.714.6400
46188 Sterling Highway
Soldotna, AK 99669
Demographics
- Principal Tenure: 3 years as principal; 11 years with KPBSD
- 3 Certified staff
- 2 Classified staff
- 17:1 P/T ratio
- Average Staff years of service = 7
- 70 Enrollment
Intervention Support
At River City Academy, our small size of 70 students allows for personalized support and close relationships. With the same teachers year to year, students benefit from consistent guidance and small group opportunities. Weekly check-ins during mentoring classes ensure individual progress, while in-class special education support and personalized learning options help every student succeed.
Academics Assessment
- MAP –
- 7th graders scored in the 51st percentile in growth in MATH SCORES on the MAP test.
- 8th graders scored in the 90th percentile in growth in MATH SCORES on the MAP test.
- 9th graders scored in the 62nd percentile in growth in MATH SCORES on the MAP test.
- 10th graders scored in the 52nd percentile for growth in MATH SCORES on the MAP test, while being in the 82nd percentile for achievement.
- 22-23 Alaska Science Assessment-
- 72.22% of students proficient or advanced in science
Secondary Specific
- Graduation Rate: 74.29%
- 5 year Cohort Graduation rate 81.82%
- 5 year Cohort Graduation rate: Females = 100%
- 5 year Cohort Graduation rate: Students with disabilities 100%
- Dual Enrollment
Middle College enrollment is encouraged. Students are provided support on enrolling in dual credit courses for their Junior and Senior years.
School Projects/Initiatives
- At River City Academy, students engage in diverse initiatives and projects like Student Council leadership, Exploration Classes, Career Skill development, our Annual Film Festival, and FACs class snack sales, all designed to foster creativity, leadership, and practical skills.
Course Offering Highlights
- Career and Secondary transition classes
School Climate and Mindset Key Data
At River City Academy, 90% of students report feeling encouraged to do their best, and 83% say their teachers care about their health and well-being. While we strive for 100%, these results reflect a positive foundation of support and growth in our school community.
School Culture Highlights
River City Academy fosters a welcoming and inclusive culture where all students are known and celebrated for their successes at school. Through mentoring, schoolwide team building, and regular celebrations, students build strong relationships and a sense of community. Weekly whole-school meetings and an active Student Council encourage students to advocate for themselves and their community, ensuring every voice is heard. Students receive coaching to advocate for their own educational needs and to take responsibility for their own educational success.
Family and Community Engagements/Highlights
At River City Academy, community engagement is a key focus. Students participate in college presentations, a school-wide recycling program, and environmental science trips to local sites like the landfill, the Marathon refinery, and the Kenai River. We also organize cleanups on the Tsalteshi trails and along the river, and offer exploration classes taught by volunteer community members in CPR, first aid, dance, and art. These initiatives help students connect with and contribute to the community.