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Verde Valley School offered me deep academic challenges rooted in student choice and responsibility. The school and EVERYONE in it served to open my eyes to the diversity and possible integration of people and disciplines throughout the world. Verde Valley School believes in a whole, well-rounded education that encourages students to grow through self-chosen goals academically, physically, spiritually and socially. Students make the school, and the adults really do believe that "it takes a village". I learned something from every adult on campus, all of whom took the time to listen and respond wisely to student ideas, concerns and questions. Verde Valley's unique field trips or experiences offered a different world view and real -world challenges I could never have experiences anywhere else. The beautiful setting of Sedona gave a sense of calm and awe to my turmoiled and otherwise typically narcissistic teen life.

My concerns were never trivialized. I have learned to listen to others with the same respect.

My advice would be to use the resources you are given: brilliant and available faculty is the biggest resource you have-they are available on campus ALMOST 24-7.

The best take-away from Verde Valley would be the opportunities for student growth through so many experiences: cultural and nature field trips , student jobs, a two week "deep focus" on an enrichment you might never have tried, the Waldorf hut, the beautiful chapel.

Go hike around the campus!

The academics were challenging and competitive, professors always taking into account student ideas and guiding students to discoveries that may not have been in their original syllabus. I remember creating a Philosophy class with a group of like-minded students that met twice a week with a professor who agreed to take this on after listening to our intense student debates. This professor along with one other professor created the class with our questioning and curiosity in mind, not because it was his assigned class.

I participated in Volleyball and loved it. Athletics were fun, took advantage of the outdoor environment, and full of student choice.

I participated in Theater almost exclusively. I loved the exploration of various forms of production, theater styles, and the fact that adults sometimes would participate in our student productions.

There was always something to be excited about and participate in.

Dorm life was arranged to give students as much choice and responsibility as possible while still providing adult supervision. I loved the common rooms that helped each unique dorm building form a true team spirit.

Cafeteria hours were convenient, the dining hall was spacious and beautiful with full windows to take advantage of the incredibly beautiful location. Seating was student-choice. The food was varied, delicious.

The town was fun to explore and Sedona townspeople participated in community-town events.

I enjoyed the diversity of students and viewpoints as well as opportunities to interact in different ways through student jobs, projects, classes, and just hanging out and relaxing.