Fountain Valley School of Colorado
FVSSecular, Founded 1930
Updated July 2026
Fountain Valley School is an independent, co-educational college preparatory school for grades 8–12, offering both day and boarding options. Located on a 1,100-acre campus in Colorado Springs, it combines a rigorous academic curriculum with a unique focus on the American West and outdoor education.
Curriculum
Term structure
Teaching approach
Drawing on its Western heritage, the school aims to develop leaders who embrace the world with compassion and courage. It emphasizes core values including curiosity, self-reliance, and open-mindedness, fostering an environment where students are encouraged to ask big questions and engage in analytical and creative thinking. The school promotes a balance of academic rigor with personal growth, hard work, and community connection.
Programmes
The school offers a comprehensive college-preparatory curriculum with over 100 interdisciplinary courses, including honors and advanced-level options. The academic journey begins in 8th grade, serving as a bridge to high school, and progresses through specialized pathways such as the Senior Capstone and Global Education programs. Students engage in small, discussion-based classes across humanities, world languages, mathematics, and the sciences.
Outcomes
Fountain Valley School maintains a 100% matriculation rate to post-secondary institutions for its graduates. The school’s curriculum and signature offerings, such as the Senior Capstone and Global Scholar/STEM Diploma, are designed to prepare students for success in college and beyond. Alumni report that their experiences at the school were transformative for their educational and personal growth.
Student support
Learning support
The school provides academic support through the Academic Skills Center, which is directed by the Dean of Academics. Specialized support includes an English Language Learner (ELL) program and an Academic Skills Instructional Program, both available for an additional fee to students with specific needs. College counseling is also provided to assist students with post-secondary planning.
Frequently asked questions(5)
- How much is tuition at Fountain Valley School of Colorado?
- Annual tuition at Fountain Valley School of Colorado is $40.7K–$75.9K. Fees vary by year group — confirm the current schedule with the school.
- What ages does Fountain Valley School of Colorado teach?
- Fountain Valley School of Colorado enrolls students aged 13 to 18.
- Is Fountain Valley School of Colorado a day or boarding school?
- Fountain Valley School of Colorado is a day and boarding school.
- Is Fountain Valley School of Colorado co-educational?
- Fountain Valley School of Colorado is a co-ed school.
- Where is Fountain Valley School of Colorado located?
- Fountain Valley School of Colorado is an international school in Colorado Springs, United States.
Tuition & fees
Annual tuition by grade
2026-2027| Grade | Ages | Annual |
|---|---|---|
| Boarding Students | — | $75.9K |
| Day Students | — | $40.7K |
Other fees(11)
| Application fee· Clarity Application fee for financial aid applicants | $65 |
|---|---|
| Deposit· Deposit due upon signing agreement (amount not specified) | — |
| Registration fee· International Student Program Fee | $2.5K |
| EAL· English Language Learner Program (limited enrollment) | $12K |
| Materials· Academic Skills Instructional Program Fee (limited enrollment) | $12K |
| Materials· 8th Grade Program Fee | $750 |
| Materials· 9th Grade Program & Interim Fee | $750 |
| Materials· 10th-12th Grade Interim Expeditions (range $900-$5,000 depending on family choice) | — |
| Materialsmonth· Riding Program base price | $300 |
| Insurance· International Student Health Insurance (ISM Insurance preferred vendor) approximately $1,500-$2,500 per year | — |
| Insurance· Tuition Refund Plan billed at 3.8% of net tuition | — |
Admissions
Fountain Valley School operates on a rolling admissions basis, with applications accepted for grades 8 through 12. The school requires prospective families to complete an inquiry and application process, which includes the submission of financial aid documentation via the Clarity Application for those seeking need-based assistance. Deadlines for financial aid are December 30 for Early Action and February 1 for Regular Decision.
Calendar
The school operates on an academic calendar that includes major events and seasonal programming. The 2026-27 calendar features specific windows for athletic activities, such as Power House Sports, and standardized testing dates like the ACT. Families can access a detailed, filterable calendar through the school's portal for specific event scheduling.
Facilities
About the campus
The 1,100-acre Prairie campus in Colorado Springs features 10 adobe residential houses, each accommodating 16 to 20 students. The campus includes specialized facilities such as the Art Barn for visual and performing arts, a wellness center, and extensive athletic facilities including a strength and conditioning center and a climbing wall. Furthermore, the school maintains a 40-acre Mountain Campus near the Collegiate Peaks for outdoor education and ecology lessons.
Co-curriculars
Students participate in a wide range of activities, including clubs, community engagement, and wellness programs. The school offers a robust athletic program with 11 sports, including traditional options like basketball, lacrosse, soccer, and swimming, alongside mountain sports such as climbing and biking. Additionally, the school provides three-season Western and English riding programs.
- Andy WatsonInterim Head of School
Andy Watson joined Fountain Valley as the Interim Head of School on June 2, 2026.
- Megan HarlanHead of School
Megan Harlan is the Head of School at Fountain Valley School.
- Nathan EberhartDean of Faculty, Equity & Teaching; Chair of the Languages Department
Nathan Eberhart serves as the Chair of the Languages Department and has been the Dean of Faculty, Equity & Teaching since 2023. He was inspired to work at Fountain Valley after seeing the positive impact it had on his family members who attended the school.
- Amy Walia-FazioDean of Enrollment Management
Amy Walia-Fazio serves as the Dean of Enrollment Management.
- David SotoDirector of Admission
David Soto serves as the Director of Admission.
- Kiira Walsh '14Director of International Recruitment
Kiira Walsh '14 serves as the Director of International Recruitment.
- Avery WilkersonAssistant Director of Admissions and Data Manager; Climbing Coach
Avery Wilkerson serves as the Assistant Director of Admissions and Data Manager, as well as a Climbing Coach.