By the late 1950s, Murray City School District was bursting with enrollment numbers. That was evidenced in several of its schools, but one of the most critical issues was a lack of space at the junior high level.

District officials knew expansion was needed primarily on the west side of Murray and were searching for the right location for some time. Finally, in 1960, a large parcel became available off 700 West and Tripp Lane that more than met their specifications. 

Groundbreaking ceremonies were held in April, and the new building, with just 10 classrooms, administrative offices, a shop, a gymnasium, and an auditorium, was completed before the 1961-62 school year. State funds paid for two-thirds of the $600,000 price tag.

When it opened, it was spacious and even bussed many students from southeast Murray. But it didn’t take many years before the building filled up and needed additional space. Fortunately, in the 1970s and 1990s, the District funded several facility upgrade projects, including the expansion of Riverview to accommodate its burgeoning population.

In the past decade it’s become evident to the Murray Board of Education, through cost-benefit-analysis and studies, that Riverview needs to be replaced. Both the building itself and its functionality for modern learning experiences are significantly compromised. So they are proposing a bond measure to replace the school with one that meets current learning and safety standards. You can learn more about that project here.

Today, Riverview and its PTA and Community Council volunteers provide multiple activities for their students and communities each year. This includes in-school and after-school fairs and events to promote learning, raise awareness, and unify the school community. But students and teachers are also active in providing phenomenal entertainment that includes plays and musical performances.

Presently, Riverview has an approximate enrollment of 630 students. They employ award-winning teachers, support professionals, and other staff and administrators. The school’s principal is Earl Kauffman. He is joined by Assistant Principal Mike Roberts. You can learn more about the school and its faculty and staff at: https://riverview.murrayschools.org