Colorado Springs, CO — FVS is proud to announce the launch of an eighth grade program for day students only, beginning in the 2026–2027 school year. As the School approaches its centennial, this expansion reflects both a commitment to its founding spirit and a thoughtful step toward long-term vitality.

When Fountain Valley School opened in 1929, it served students in grades 7–12. Nearly 60 years ago, the Board eliminated eighth grade, after previously phasing out seventh grade. Bringing eighth grade back now reflects a return to the school’s original vision while also meeting the changing needs of families in Colorado Springs.

The addition of an eighth grade program helps meet the growing demand from local families for a strong, supportive transitional year before high school. It also creates a more seamless academic bridge into ninth grade, allowing students to build the habits, confidence, and sense of belonging needed to thrive in a rigorous college-preparatory environment.

The Colorado Springs Gazette recently highlighted the launch of our eighth grade program, underscoring its significance for families across the Pikes Peak region. (Read the full article through the button below.)

The program is designed as a dynamic foundation year that blends high expectations with close faculty mentorship. Students will strengthen core academic skills, deepen habits of inquiry, and develop independence within FVS’s Western academic tradition, one that combines rigor with balance and joy.

The eighth grade class will intentionally be small and selective, with just 15 spots available for the inaugural year. Tuition for the 2026–2027 school year will be $35,000. The priority application deadline is March 8.

Program Highlights Include:

• A rigorous, interdisciplinary, writing-intensive, and discussion-based curriculum focused on conceptual understanding
   
• Core courses in English, Ancient History (inquiry-based), Physical Science, and Mathematics
   
• Math placement in Algebra I, Geometry, or higher (Pre-Algebra proficiency required), with classes alongside upper school students
   
• Language study in Spanish, French, or Mandarin (placement-based), also with upper school students
   
• Arts rotation, including studio art, music, and theatre
   
• Advisory groups that foster connection, mentorship, and strong parent communication
   
• Full access to clubs, weekend programming, and community activities

“This is about positioning FVS for the next 100 years,” said Megan Harlan, Head of School. “As we approach our centennial, we are honoring our history while preparing for the future. Launching eighth grade allows us to invest earlier in students’ academic habits, character development, and sense of belonging so they enter ninth grade fully prepared to thrive.”

FVS will host an in-person parent information session on March 2 from 6:00–7:00 p.m. for families interested in learning more about the new eighth grade program. Additional details are available through the admission office.

FVS looks forward to welcoming its first eighth grade class in the fall of 2026 and continuing its commitment to academic excellence, character, and community for generations to come.

Read about the new Fountain Valley eighth grade program from The Gazette here