The Valwood Difference

The Independent School Advantage

Enrolling your student in an independent school is an investment that yields great outcomes. Valwood ensures you and your child see these results by committing to:

High Academic Standards

Independent schools nurture intellectual curiosity, stimulate personal growth, and encourage critical thinking. A larger percentage of students at independent schools are enrolled in advanced courses versus public, parochial, and other private schools.

Small Classes and Individual Attention

Independent schools have low student-teacher ratios that encourage close connections with students. The median ratio in NAIS schools in 2023 was 8.4% students to 1 teacher.

Excellent Teachers

Valwood employs educators who teach in their areas of expertise and are passionate about what they do. With more autonomy within the classroom, instructors are able to develop a full understanding of how each student learns and what interests and motivates each student individually.

Greater likelihood of a Student Completing a Bachelor’s Degree or Graduate Degree

Valwood students are accepted into colleges at a higher percentage than the university acceptance rate and have a much higher eligibility percentage to receive the HOPE scholarship than other schools in the area.

Education for the Whole Child

Independent schools nurture not just students’ intellectual ability and curiosity but also their personal and social growth and civic conscience. Opportunities extend well beyond the classroom to athletic competitions, artistic pursuits, community service, and leadership experiences.

Inclusiveness

Schools maintain diverse and vibrant student communities and welcome and respect each family. In 2023 students of color were 33.2 percent of total independent school enrollment.

A Community of Parents Who Actively Participate in Their Child’s Education

Valwood promotes regular communication among students, parents, and teachers to ensure everyone is working toward the same goals for the students.

Lower Parents Say

“Valwood takes safety and security really seriously.”

Middle School Parents Say

“When I send my son to school, I know that he is with a positive peer group. This is priceless!”

Upper School Parents Say

“It was great how well my child was prepared for college. He had really good study habits compared with his classmates.”

Lower Students Say:

“One of my favorite things about lower school is the plays that each class performs for the whole lower school.”

Middle School Students Say:

“Valwood is like an extension of your family. Siblings attend Valwood, but the relationships that are built with teachers, administrators, and coaches make you feel like they’re a part of your family too.”

Upper School Students Say:

“I am proud to attend a school that provides me with opportunities to give back to my community and make a difference.”

See for Yourself

We invite you to explore Valwood through our website, but the best way to learn more about our school’s mission and approach is to visit us. We hold admissions coffee-and-tour sessions monthly where you will learn about our curriculum and extracurricular programs, and you will also be able to see first-hand our beautifully designed, state-of-the-art facilities.

Schedule a Tour