Vail Mountain School (VMS) is proud to announce the creation of the Early Learner Access Fund, a new initiative dedicating $300,000 in financial support to families with students in kindergarten through second grade who are considering enrollment at VMS.

The Early Learner Access Fund reflects the school’s deep belief in the importance of the early years of education and its commitment to making a VMS education accessible to more families during this critical developmental stage. By investing in early learners, the school aims to provide students with a strong foundation that supports long-term academic success, personal growth, and a lifelong love of learning.

“Early childhood is a formative time when students are developing foundational academic skills while also beginning to understand who they are as learners and as individuals,” said Kristin Douthitt, Director of Lower School at Vail Mountain School. “When children feel known, supported, and challenged in these early years, it sets the tone for their confidence, curiosity, and engagement throughout their entire educational journey.”

The fund also recognizes the commitment made by local families who choose an independent school education for their children from the very beginning—and often for their full K–12 experience. VMS seeks to partner with families who value a mission-driven, academically rigorous, and experientially-based education and to ensure that financial considerations do not prevent students from accessing this opportunity at a young age.

“Vail Mountain School is built on a strong, connected community where students are known across grade levels,” said Steve Bileca, Head of School. “Beginning at VMS in the Lower School allows students to build confidence, form meaningful relationships with peers and older students,  develop a sense of belonging, and a joy in learning that truly lasts a lifetime. We are proud to invest in families who want to begin that journey with us.”

The Early Learner Access Fund will be available to eligible families beginning with the upcoming admissions cycle. Families interested in learning more are encouraged to contact the VMS Admissions Office at admissions@vms.edu or 970-477-7175.

 

 

Steps for Applying

About Vail Mountain School
Vail Mountain School is a K–12 independent school dedicated to developing confident, curious, and engaged learners through meaningful experiential education, academic excellence, and a strong sense of community.