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About Us

students gathered in a group for a picture

A safe, welcoming place to learn

At Rutherford, parents and staff combine their efforts to strengthen teaching and learning for each individual student through effective communication and positive relationships. Our open and welcoming facility features flexible learning spaces and opportunities for multi-age experiences. As part of the Stillwater Area Public School District, Rutherford is known for excellence and has a proud tradition of meeting the needs of all kids

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9.6 of 10 fifth graders report they feel safe at school

 

93%

93% of students report that they can identify their passions

 

94%

94% of students report that they care about doing well in school

85%

85% of second graders read at or above grade level

 

boy speaking into a microphone and reading off a sheet of paper

Real-World Experiences

Learning is made more relevant and engaging with things like: 

  • LEGO robotics, Dash and Dot robots and other technologies to teach coding, problem solving, math skills and more
  • Community experts working alongside students on real-world projects
  • 4Cs – Communication, Collaboration, Critical thinking, Creativity
boy wearing headphones and sitting in front of a computer

Personalized Learning

Learning is personalized based on each student's strengths, passions and unique needs:

  • Exploratory experiences both in and outside the classroom
  • Hands-on projects that allow students to explore things they're interested in 
  • Digital devices and technology to help personalize teaching 
teacher helping student with a worksheet at a desk

Caring Relationships

Students get to know one another and develop meaningful relationships with staff through: 

  • Small learning environments
  • Family events and activities throughout the year, like carnivals and family dances
  • Regular communication, both in person and electronically, between teachers and families
  • Strong support from intervention teachers and other staff (English learners, math/reading support and more) 

Outstanding Learning Opportunities

All Stillwater Area Public Schools focus on the 4Cs – Communication, Collaboration, Critical thinking and Creativity by providing opportunities for students to solve problems through hands-on projects and real-world experiences. We consider children participants in the learning process. 

All elementary students have access to:

  • Core instruction in literacy, math, science, social studies, art, physical education, media and general music
  • Opportunities in band, orchestra and choir beginning in 5th grade
  • Responsive Classroom, where students participate in morning meetings emphasizing social, emotional, and academic growth in a strong and safe school community
  • Enrichment experiences to advance learning and challenge students
  • Special Education: reading and math interventions, English Learner program and summer Targeted Services
  • Service learning and community service projects
  • Preschool for four-year-olds (fee-based; offered through Community Education) 

Rutherford is like a large family. All the children mentor others around them whether older or younger. Teachers know every child in their grade level. Students never feel like a stranger anywhere in the school. PARENT COMMENT

Celebrate Rutherford

While what we teach at Rutherford is similar to other schools in the district, our school has a unique culture and community all its own. We encourage you to visit our school to see if it’s the right fit for you and your child. Here are just a few ways our school is unique:

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Traditions

  • Mobile Makerspaces, where students can design and create, and learn coding and robotics
  • STEAM Family Night and other fun PTA sponsored events
  • Wishes for Rutherford annual fundraiser
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Community

  • Designated as an International Peace Site
  • Peace Buddies involvement in service learning projects
  • Community service projects, like food and clothing drives
  • Classroom connections with school in Africa
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Students

  • Preschool through fifth grade 
  • Home of the district’s Developmental Cognitive Disabilities program
  • Diverse student body representing various cultures, abilities and experiences

Our Teachers

seventy three percent
of our teachers have a master's degree or higher
seventy seven percent
of our teachers have more than 10 years of experience 
ninety eight percent
of fifth graders believe that teachers care about them