The Riviera Ridge School honors its history, embraces future with rededication of the Marymount Meditation and Heritage Garden

On Monday, September 20th, 2021, The Riviera Ridge School (formerly Marymount School of Santa Barbara), kicked off their annual spirit week festivities, which honors the founding of the school 83 years ago in 1938.

Particularly special this year, The Riviera Ridge School community gathered to rededicate and celebrate the 25th anniversary of the Marymount Meditation Garden as the Marymount Meditation and Heritage Garden. To celebrate this beautiful place for meditation, outdoor class gatherings and personal reflection, Fr. Dan Lacke, Pastor of the Santa Barbara Mission, provided a special dedication. To enhance the rededication of this beautiful gathering space, new trees and flowers have been planted with some of the original Marymount signage also repurposed and placed, and twelve new rose bushes have been planted symbolizing a traditional “Mary Garden” and new home for the statue of Mary, honoring the many Marymount alumni families and students who remain enthusiastically committed to the Mission, Vision and Values of The Riviera Ridge School.

“This year is especially important as we embrace our new name while continuing to honor and celebrate our history of academic excellence and social and emotional learning,” says Chris Broderick, Head of School. “We remain uniquely committed to our traditions and founding ideals while thoughtfully considering the larger global perspectives our school community embraces. As we continue to develop our signature Kaleidoscope Program, we truly hope that this garden will allow for a creation of “sacred space” that invites all who seek a place for rest, renewal, and reflection. We will remain passionate as we welcome and embrace the beautifully woven tapestry of all religious, spiritual, and ethical principles we cherish and have in common with each other, and as we continue to value the creation of a community who continues to learn and grow together with purpose beyond ourselves.”

At the Riviera Ridge School, we provide student-centered, individualized beginning in Junior Kindergarten and continuing through the 8th grade in a joyful and nurturing community, inspiring academic excellence and valuing difference. The educational vision for each Riviera Ridge graduate is to empower individual potential, inspire purpose beyond self, and cultivate social responsibility as they prepare for high school and beyond. For more information, email info@rivieraridge.org or call 805-569-1811 ext. 131. https://www.rivieraridge.org