Read more details about Verde Valley School on their 2024-25 profile page.
Reflections and Advice:
1.) What do you think makes your school unique relative to other boarding schools?
This school is quite possibly located in one of the most scenic places in the country, and the outdoor activities available to the students of VVS make it an incredible place to experience but nature and nurturing. The campus provides amazing access to hiking, climbing, kayaking, and horseback riding - and is less than two hours away from both areas that experience snow in the winter and 100+ degree weather in the summer.
2.) What was the best thing that happened to you in boarding school?
VVS not only helped me to grow as a person, but they helped me gain acceptance to my first choice college and had amazing one-on-one college counseling services.
3.) What might you have done differently during your boarding school experience?
If you are going off somewhere new - anywhere - try not to have too many preconceptions. The people that you meet at VVS are going to be different than you are, VERY DIFFERENT. But different can be beautiful if you can do your best to reserve judgment and have an open mind - besides, if you can learn to do that in high school then you'll be one step ahead for the rest of your life.
4.) What did you like most about your school?
VVS is BEAUTIFUL - probably the most beautiful place I will ever have lived in my entire life!
5.) Do you have any final words of wisdom for visiting or incoming students to your school?
If you visit/attend this school be sure to take time to hike to the top of Cathedral rock - especially if you do it at sunset - it could change your perspective on life!
Academics:
1.) Describe the academics at your school - what did you like most about it?
My favorite part of VVS academically was that classes were so small. It was wonderful to be in a community that was so strongly connected, and where no one fell under the radar. I also found it comforting that the students were expected to address their teachers by their first names, and felt that this policy really allowed students to feel comfortable within their learning environment and openly communicate.
Athletics:
1.) Describe the athletics at your school - what did you like most about it?
The athletics program at this school offers something for everyone. If you love the outdoors, there's hiking, biking, kayaking, rick climbing, and soccer and if you don't there's always the local gym. It is a perfect opportunity to experience new things and find new hobbies.
Art, Music, and Theatre:
1.) Describe the arts program at your school - what did you like most about it?
I thought that the art facilities were particularly impressive - I really love that the art studio is always open, and that there is a potter's wheel for every kid in the class.
Extracurricular Opportunities:
1.) Describe the extracurriculars offered at your school - what did you like most about it?
I really liked that VVS had mandatory campus clean-up sessions. I felt that this program, which ran twice about a cumulative of 3 hours/week, really instilled a sense of personal pride and commitment to the school and really helped me to understand the value physical labor.
Dorm Life:
1.) Describe the dorm life in your school - what did you like most about it?
Not applicable - I was a day student.
Dining:
1.) Describe the dining arrangements at your school.
The dining facilities in this school are limited, and I found that food would often become repetitive over the course of the year. However, there is a small student store, packing one's lunch was always an option, and the dining hall does have a great atmosphere - looking out over the quad with a huge window and a great loft. Also, the weather is wonderful most of the time and eating outside on the grass is always an option. Lunch is extremely casual and a great time to rest, relax and just be yourself.
Social and Town Life:
1.) Describe the school's town and surrounding area.
Sedona if BEAUTIFUL but it is relatively small (population under 50000) and there is very limited entertainment. Flagstaff, a town only 45 minutes north, does offer a bit more variety however, and is visited weekly on weekend trips provided for the students to shop, see movies, go to the mall, etc.
2.) Describe the social life at your school - what did you like most about it?
I really liked the small school atmosphere. It was nice to know everyone and always feel safe leaving your stuff around or your room unlocked. VVS traditions are also amazing, and the traditional school ceremonies really unite the different classes. However, VVS is limited socially - seeing that its student population is rather small and its surrounding area is incredibly rural - so if you are a big city person, this may not be the place for you.
Daily Schedule:
Weekday
7:30 AM
Arrive at School
8:00 AM
Classes
12:00 AM
Lunch
1:00 PM
Classes
3:30 PM
Campus Clean-Up Jobs
4:30 PM
Commute to Baton Practice
7:00 PM
Commute Back from Baton Practice
9:00 PM
AP Spanish
10:00 PM
Drive Home
Weekend
1:00 AM
n/a - was a day student
Read more details about Verde Valley School on their 2024-25 profile page.
Alumni Reviews Review School
Review
Description
Verde Valley School is a very unique day and boarding school in Sedona, AZ. Throughout my four years, 2 of being a day student and 2 of boarding, I fell in love with VVS and. . .
Verde Valley School, founded in 1948 is located in a secluded valley twelve miles from Sedona, Arizona - so its location is both unique and magnificent. From its inception, Verde Valley has been focused on. . .
Verde Valley School offered me deep academic challenges rooted in student choice and responsibility. The school and EVERYONE in it served to open my eyes to the diversity and possible integration of people and disciplines. . .
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