Dear FVS Community,
Yesterday, the FVS community gathered virtually to celebrate the 50th Anniversary of Earth Day. We heard from students and faculty about their passion for the environment as well as ways that we may all work together to celebrate, protect, preserve, and be good stewards of the precious natural resources that surround us. As always, it was energizing and inspiring, and wonderful to see all the smiling faces of this community.
Last Thursday, I shared that we would no longer assign classwork to be completed outside of the regular school day. Our intention and hope in doing so is that our students and faculty will use the afternoons to disconnect from technology, get outside, and tap into the energy of the outdoors to rejuvenate and recharge. This adjustment was in direct response to feedback from students, parents, and faculty, and I hope that this change, as well as last Monday’s Headmaster’s Holiday, have provided some relief. I also hope that this modification is a clear message that we want and value your feedback and that we can and will make adjustments when needed to balance academics with the overall health and well-being of our community.
In this update:
- Tuition Refunds
- End of Year Events
Tuition Refunds
Many parents have contacted the School requesting refunds of a portion of room and board fees, and today I am pleased to share our plans to do so. The School has elected to refund a portion of programs, room, and board to all families at a rate of $315.00 for day families and $5,300.00 for boarding families. Families who receive financial assistance from the School will receive a refund proportionate to the amount paid. Refunds will be processed through Smart Tuition on the May 1 statement. Any credit balance that remains at the end of the academic year will be processed at that time.
I’d like to express my gratitude for your patience while we worked to assess the situation and arrive at a solution that supports the operation of the School, attends to our employees, and honors our partnership with families. I also want to acknowledge the financial challenges that we are all experiencing—including the School. As with our Interim refunds, some families have already chosen to forgo these refunds. If you wish to do so, please reach out to me or the business office. I am humbled and inspired by this generosity but also know and respect that this is simply not a possibility for all.
End of Year Events
Last week, I shared our plans to hold Baccalaureate and Commencement on our virtual platform. Work is well underway to make this event truly special and celebrate the Class of 2020 in the way that they deserve. Further details will be shared in the coming weeks, but please be sure to mark your calendars and make plans to join us on Friday, May 22 at 7:00 p.m. MDT.
Earlier this week, we shared news of our intention to hold Reunion Weekend and our Annual Giving Day as a combined event the week following Commencement. While Reunion is typically focused on alumni, our virtual platform makes it possible for us to extend the reach of this celebration to include all members of our community. A tentative schedule can be viewed by clicking the link below, which also includes a means to RSVP.
I hope you will join us on May 29-30 for this unique opportunity when members of the FVS community both past and present will gather in support of our School and in celebration of all that we have accomplished over the past 90 years. Our theme, which I believe is emblematic of that which brings us all together, is simply: “For Love of FVS.”
Thank you for your continued support, patience, and partnership. Although difficult to continue to find the appropriate words for all that we are conquering together, please know that our work is sustaining and energizing both me and this entire community every single day. Take good care, stay safe, and be well.
Sincerely,
William Webb
Head of School
Fountain Valley School of Colorado
6155 Fountain Valley School Road
Colorado Springs, CO 80911
