Being an independent school means that we are a 501(c)3 nonprofit organization.  Since tuition income alone does not cover our operational expenses, we rely on other revenue streams in the form of donations and giving to cover the operational expenses. Tuition income, VMS Fund income, our annual VMS Gala and endowment income together support the day-to-day operation of our school— which comes with an annual price tag of more than $13.5 million dollars.  The VMS Fund helps bridge the gap between the actual cost of a student’s education and tuition charged and meet our operating budget for the year. 

We recognize that tuition and fees at VMS are substantial.  However, what many people do not realize is that our fees are calculated with a clear intention to remain as affordable as possible and align closely with other independent peer schools. Tuition fees cover about 85% percent of what it actually costs to educate each VMS student and meet our operating budget.  

Other funding and grant sources look to Annual Giving participation as a measure of the engagement and commitment of the school's community members.  Schools strive for 100% participation from their families both as a vote of confidence for the school and its mission and as a signal to others who are considering making a donation.  Corporations and foundations considering a contribution look carefully at the percentage of parents who support the school.  

VMS has a target goal for the 2022-2023 year of $380,000.  This means an average of $850 per student.  However, the amount you give is completely up to you.  Giving levels start at $1 (seriously!).  And the primary goal of the VMS Fund is to reach 100% participation!  Each gift received is deeply appreciated and allows VMS to fulfill its mission through vibrant programming and sustaining a diverse student population.

Tuition Support: 
Tuition assistance is absolutely essential toward creating a more diverse group of students and families who enrich our community.  It has allowed us to increase enrollment, reduce attrition and increase the diversity of our student population. To be successful, this model needs continued support from families able to give more.  VMS budgets over $1,600,000 each year to provide tuition assistance to over 26% of our families.
 
Faculty Support and Compensation: 
Our faculty are supported through robust professional development to help them continuously innovate in the classroom.  Over 65% of faculty hold advanced degrees and are masters of their content area.  We are focused on continuously developing the most talented faculty and offering ongoing faculty support.  VMS has increased faculty tenure in all divisions and our annual teacher retention rate is less than the 10% NAIS standard.    
 
Small Class Sizes and Academic Excellence:
VMS offers small class sizes and low student-teacher ratios resulting in more personal attention and individualized instruction in small classes.  The small class sizes allows teachers to develop curriculum from a rapport-driven approach and emphasize the student’s role in the learning process.  
 
Academic Special Programs: 
VMS curriculum goes beyond stellar academics to include visual and performing arts, foreign language, technology, music, greenhouse, public speaking and outdoor experiential education.  

YES!!  Unlike tuition, your contribution is tax-deductible.  VMS is an independent 501 (c)3 nonprofit organization.