What Sets Us Apart
Our Mission
We trust and empower teachers to help students become life-long learners by inspiring investigation, enabling achievement, and offering challenging, adventurous opportunities for growth—both academically and emotionally.
Our Culture
We’re in this together! No teacher is an island. Instead, we are a crew, working together to pilot the course, steer the ship, and keep our community strong, engaged, and safe.
Our Values
Collaboration
Continuing education
Open-mindedness
Trust
Growth
Support
FAQ
What is Expeditionary Learning or EL Education?
Not to be confused with nature schools, EL schools emphasize engaged teaching and learning, project-based curriculum, and a demanding and supportive school culture. Literacy is central and reading and writing are integrated throughout the curriculum. Character development and teamwork are not just emphasized, but embedded in school structures, practices and rituals and integrated into the academic program.
Learn more about EL Education here.
What does the average school day look like at VBE?
While the subjects you teach are the same, the difference is in the method of instruction. Students tend to be more active in the learning process in Expeditionary Learning classrooms. You’ll spend your days helping students immerse themselves in topical Expeditions and encouraging engaged learning by exploring, discovering, and asking questions.
Do I need to be certified in or have experience with EL Learning to apply?
No. We know that EL Learning is probably a new approach for most people. That’s why we offer a 2-week training program for all new teachers before the school year begins. We’ll also support your learning with trainings throughout the year, help from the administration, and from your fellow teachers. We’ve found that though the approach is new, it feels natural–this is how education should be.
What are your class sizes and student/teacher ratios?
We allow up to 50 students per grade level. With two teachers per grade, our student to teacher ratio is no more than 25:1. Through our partnership with CSUP, field experience students and student teachers are in the classroom daily. Along with parent volunteers, there is always plenty of support in the classroom.
Are parents involved at VBE?
Absolutely. VBE believes that family support and involvement is vital to the success of our school. We ask that each family completes 10 hours of volunteer activities each year, but many parents go above and beyond, both helping at the school and at home.
What extra duties will I be assigned at VBE?
Unlike many other schools, we acknowledge that your most important duty is teaching. We provide extra administrative support so you don’t have to do many of the extra non-teaching duties like lunches, pickup, recess, etc.
What grades are offered at VBE?
In our fourth year of operation for the 2022-2023 school year, VBE will serve students in kindergarten through 6th grade. We will add 7th grade in 2023-2024 and will be fully enrolled as a K-8 school with the addition of 8th grade in 2024-2025.
