
Valley Preparatory School
Secular, Founded 1957
Updated July 2026
Valley Preparatory School is an independent, nonprofit, coeducational day school in Redlands, California, serving students from preschool through eighth grade. It is an International Baccalaureate World School that provides a challenging, student-centered, college preparatory education.
Curriculum
Teaching approach
Valley Preparatory School is guided by the principles of truth, judgment, and courage. It promotes a culture of inclusivity and community service, emphasizing that character development is as vital as academic achievement. The school encourages students to embrace a global perspective and fosters a spirit of inquiry, critical thinking, and problem-solving.
Programmes
The school offers an International Baccalaureate (IB) Primary Years Program (PYP), which utilizes a thematic, inquiry-based, and cross-curricular approach to education. This is complemented by a robust STEAM program that integrates science, technology, engineering, arts, and mathematics to encourage innovation. The core curriculum includes instruction in language arts, math, science, social studies, and foreign languages such as French and Spanish, alongside specialized instruction in music, art, and physical education.
Outcomes
The school aims to inspire students to reach their full potential through a college preparatory program that emphasizes character development, including honesty, integrity, and respect. Graduates are prepared to be active, compassionate, and lifelong learners who possess a global perspective. The school's commitment to academic growth is supported by its status as an International Baccalaureate World School.
Student support
Learning support
The school provides instructional support through a dedicated resource specialist. This support is designed to assist students in achieving their academic potential within the school's challenging, student-centered environment.
Frequently asked questions(5)
- What curriculum does Valley Preparatory School offer?
- Valley Preparatory School offers IB PYP.
- Is Valley Preparatory School a day or boarding school?
- Valley Preparatory School is a day school.
- What accreditations does Valley Preparatory School hold?
- Valley Preparatory School holds accreditations including IB.
- Is Valley Preparatory School co-educational?
- Valley Preparatory School is a co-ed school.
- Where is Valley Preparatory School located?
- Valley Preparatory School is an international school in San Bernardino, United States.
Tuition & fees
No published fee schedule was found for this school.
Admissions
The admissions process begins with a campus tour and the submission of an application along with previous school records. Prospective students participate in a classroom visit and a readiness assessment, which includes age-appropriate reading, writing, and math exercises. Final acceptance is determined by a review of the assessment, previous school records, teacher observations of classroom interaction, and the student's date of birth. Preschool students must be three, Pre-Kindergarten students four, and Kindergarten students five years of age by September 1 of the enrollment year.
Calendar
The school maintains an online calendar that provides information on school holidays, parent-teacher conferences, and other events. Families can subscribe to the calendar via iCal to receive updates on their personal devices. The school also hosts quarterly Board of Trustees meetings on campus.
About the campus
Located in Redlands, California, the campus serves students from preschool through eighth grade. The school grounds include dedicated spaces for learning, such as a library, and facilities to support its STEAM and arts programs. The campus also hosts administrative offices and classrooms designed to accommodate an average class size of 15 students.
Co-curriculars
The school offers a variety of extracurricular programs and field trips to enhance the student experience. Students have the opportunity to participate in activities such as robotics, where they have achieved competitive placements. These programs are designed to complement the academic curriculum and foster student interests.
- Derrick SchutzHead of School
Derrick Schutz serves as the Head of School at Valley Preparatory School, a position he has held since 2003. He holds a BA from Cal Poly Pomona and an MEd from Argosy University.
- Hidy LyndsayDirector of Operations
Hidy Lyndsay has served as the Director of Operations since 2017 and holds a BS from Cal State San Bernardino.
- Karen JohnsonDirector of Admissions
Karen Johnson has been the Director of Admissions since 2009. She holds a BS from Miami University, an MBA from the University of Southern California, and a teaching credential from the University of Redlands.
- Carrie WillisDirector of Technology
Carrie Willis has served as the Director of Technology since 2001. She holds a BA from Villanova University and an MA from Azusa Pacific University.
- Tiffany ScafideCurriculum Coordinator
Tiffany Scafide has been the Curriculum Coordinator since 2005. She holds both a BA and an MA from the University of Redlands.
IB PYP