Valley Central Schools
Faculty and staff work together to foster an educational program that is challenging and meaningful for students. Valley Central is dedicated to educating the whole child and readying students for successful careers and rewarding lives while preparing students to meet the demands of NYS exams and Regents diplomas. The district recognizes that all students do not learn in the same way. In any classroom across the district, there are various strategies and practices at work, such as team teaching, peer tutoring, and differentiated instruction.
Staff are encouraged to be lifelong learners and to always remain cognizant of each child’s individual learning style. The district offers an extensive in-service and professional development program, which includes a formal mentoring program. Teachers and administrators employ a variety of instructional strategies and practices to implement the educational program.
Elementary School
The New York State Standards-based curriculum is reviewed on a regular basis to ensure its focus on basic academic skills, with emphasis on problem-solving, critical thinking and good study habits.
Elementary students receive regular instruction in art, music, physical education/ health, computer and library skills. Our computer and library programs include many STEAM activities for our students. In addition, youngsters may choose to participate in a variety of clubs and extracurricular activities.
Middle School
The Valley Central Middle School is home to just under 1,000 students. Students follow a 42-minute, nine-period day and to retain the small school feel, students are assigned to a team and hall. Access the VCMS Course Descriptions at the VCMS Academic Departments webpage.
In grade 7, Advanced courses are offered in English, math, and science. Foreign Language study in Spanish is added in grade 8. Over the course of the three years in VCMS, students study art, music, computer, library skills, home and careers, technology, health, and physical education as well. Accelerated courses in art, math, and science are offered in the 8th grade.
Students are encouraged to become involved in the many extra-curricular activities, clubs, intramurals, and sports available. Many activities and clubs are available at VCMS.
High School
Nearly 1,400 students attend Valley Central High School. Our graduation rate is over 90%. Our high school programs prepare our students for the many paths that they follow after graduation. Access VCHS Course Descriptions at the VCHS Academic Department webpage.
The high school offers Advanced Placement through the College Board, and college credit courses through the SUNY Orange, SUNY Albany and St. Thomas Aquinas College and Cazenovia College. On average, 93 % of our graduates continue their educational experience with some form of post-high school study.
As part of their well-rounded educational options, VCHS students can also choose from dozens of clubs and a variety of athletic teams. Students may also take classes in the technical and occupational career programs at the Orange-Ulster BOCES (Board of Cooperative Educational Services).
Advanced Programs
In an effort to challenge and meet individual students’ academic needs, Valley Central School District offers advanced classes in the following subjects: English (7-12), Social Studies (7-12), Science (7-10), and Math (7-10). Accelerated classes in the areas of Math, Science, Foreign Language and Art are offered in middle school and have the potential to result in high school credits. Collegiate and AP level courses are offered in 11th and 12th grade in English, Math, Social Studies, Science, Foreign Language, Business, Art, Music, and Fashion. Entrance to Advanced Classes begins in middle school and is based on academic achievement, assessment scores, and, depending upon the subject, universal screening scores. Continuation in Advanced Classes through high school requires evidence of mastery in the subject during the prior year, as well as a recommendation from the teacher. Please refer to the Middle School course description guide or High School course description guide for specific class requirements, or contact the middle or high school guidance office for additional information regarding your child’s enrollment in the Advanced Classes, Collegiate and/or AP level courses.
Family And Community Engagement Meetings
Family and Community Engagement (F.A.C.E.) meetings are open community conversations about the Valley Central School District and the educational future of our students. Residents of the district may attend any or all of the meetings. Meeting dates can be found on the district calendar.
School Report Card
New York State Education Law requires school districts to make report card and accountability reports information available on district websites. Click here to view an archive of VCSD State Report Cards.