Built by Redlands Families, for Redlands Families
Founded in 1957 by a group of parents who believed exceptional education should be available right here in Redlands, Valley Preparatory School has grown into one of the Inland Empire’s most distinguished independent schools. A nonprofit, coeducational day school serving students from Preschool through 8th grade, VPS combines the intimacy of a close-knit community with the rigor of a fully accredited academic program.
In 1982, Valley Prep earned full CAIS accreditation — a standard we continue to uphold with pride. Today, as an IB World School and dual CAIS/WASC member, we remain true to our founding mission: to challenge, inspire, and prepare every student who walks through our doors.
| Founded | 1957 |
| Location | 1605 Ford St, Redlands, CA |
| Grades | Preschool – 8th Grade |
| Current Enrollment | 153 students |
| Avg Class Size | 15 students |
| Student–Teacher Ratio | 12:1 |
| Student–Staff Ratio | 5:1 |
| CAIS Accredited | Since 1982 |
| IB World School | Authorized 2020 (implementing since 2016) |
| WASC Accredited | Western Association of Schools & Colleges |
| NAIS Member | National Association of Independent Schools |
| Legal Status | Independent, secular, coeducational, 501(c)(3) nonprofit |
At Valley Preparatory School, we envision a dynamic learning community where every student grows into a confident communicator, critical thinker, and reflective innovator. Our graduates are compassionate, globally-minded, and committed to meaningful action. They embrace lifelong learning and strive for both personal and academic growth. Balanced and literate, technologically capable, and appreciative of the arts, world languages, and diverse perspectives, our students are prepared to thrive in an ever-changing world. We are dedicated to continuously refining our curriculum, resources, and environment to bring this vision to life.
Four Principles That Shape Every Day
Valley Preparatory School’s philosophy is grounded in four key tenets that support students in becoming curious, confident, and globally minded learners.
TRUTH
·JUDGMENT
·COURAGE
These three words define who we are and who we aim to be — in the classroom, in our community, and in life.
Faculty & Staff
Our teachers are more than educators — they are mentors, innovators, and champions for every student. With decades of combined experience and a deep commitment to the IB philosophy, the Valley Prep faculty brings curiosity and excellence to every classroom.
Administration
Early Childhood
Lower School
Middle School
Specials & Enrichment
Operations & Support
Faculty directory available in the Family Portal. Contact [email protected] for direct staff contact.
Board of Trustees
Valley Preparatory School is governed by a volunteer Board of Trustees — dedicated community leaders, parents, and alumni who provide strategic direction and fiduciary oversight for our nonprofit school. Board members serve multi-year terms and bring expertise in education, finance, law, and community development to their roles. The Board also leads strategic planning to ensure Valley Prep’s long-term academic and financial health.
Brenna Karr Gibbs
Marc Shaw
Audrey Andrade
Bob Horrigan
Ronnie Dawood, MD
Irving (Buddy) Feldkamp IV, MD
Poornima Suiter
Trustee Portal
Documents, meeting minutes, financial reports, and the board calendar — restricted to current trustees.
2026–2027 School Calendar
Download the full academic calendar for the year ahead.