The new program, called Ridge Connect, provides resources, curriculum, and licensed teacher support to families who choose to educate their children at home

Ridgefield School District is expanding Wisdom Ridge Academy (WRA), its family-partnered Alternative Learning Experience program, with a new offering designed to support homeschooling families. The new program, called Ridge Connect, provides resources, curriculum, and licensed teacher support to families who choose to educate their children at home.

To lead this work, WRA recently welcomed Amy Avery as Ridge Connect Coordinator. Avery brings more than a decade of experience supporting families in hybrid and parent-partnership models of education. A longtime local resident, Avery grew up in Vancouver and earned her bachelor’s degree in elementary education from Washington State University-Vancouver as part of the campus’ very first teaching cohort. She has also raised her own children in parent-partnership programs, giving her unique insight into the challenges and opportunities that homeschooling families experience.

“I’ve walked this journey both as a parent and as an educator,” Avery explained. “I know how valuable it is to have a partner to talk to, someone who can guide, provide curriculum, and help adjust plans when needed. Ridge Connect gives families that partnership. They don’t have to feel like they’re doing this alone.”

Through Ridge Connect, families with students in grades K–8 will meet weekly with a certificated teacher to review progress, develop lesson plans, and ensure learning is aligned with Washington State standards. The program provides access to district-approved curriculum, individualized support, and flexibility for families who want to homeschool but also seek professional guidance.

Avery has already begun meeting with families. She noted that the program is especially helpful for parents who want to homeschool but feel uncertain about how to structure lessons or measure their child’s progress. “One family I met with has a kindergartner who is working well above grade level in some areas. Ridge Connect allows us to adjust the curriculum to meet his needs while still keeping him connected to age-appropriate learning in other subjects,” she said.

For WRA Principal Susan Smith, Ridge Connect is an important step toward ensuring that Ridgefield families have choices that keep them connected to their community. “We know many Ridgefield families have been driving to other districts to find homeschool partnership programs,” Smith said. “Ridge Connect provides a way for families to stay here, save money on curriculum, and have the reassurance that a trained, licensed teacher is overseeing their child’s education. It’s about supporting families, not replacing them—making sure they feel confident and connected.”

Smith emphasized that Ridge Connect is designed for families who are committed to homeschooling but want support, reassurance, and access to resources. “We want to serve families who truly need this option,” she said. “It’s about strengthening connections, not competing with traditional schools.”

Families interested in Ridge Connect can learn more on the Wisdom Ridge Academy website at www.ridgefieldsd.org/o/wra or contact Avery directly to discuss whether the program is a good fit. An upcoming Open House at Wisdom Ridge Academy on Thursday, September 25, from 4:30 to 6:00 p.m. will also provide an opportunity to meet Avery and ask questions about the program.

“Every student is unique and special,” Avery said. “My goal is to partner with families so their child has a learning plan that reflects who they are and helps them grow. That’s what Ridge Connect is all about.”

Information provided by the Ridgefield School District.