379 North Road
North Ferrisburgh, VT 05473

FCS is an absolutely fantastic school. Having moved from the west coast with our young children, we are continually absolutely blown away by the level of support and engagement and connection here. We have one child with special needs and I know for a fact he would have been cast out and fallen between the cracks in California’s school systems, but here he has an entire amazing support team and system in place. He is thriving and despite rough times has *never* been asked to leave the school, because the administrators and staff always want him to know that they *want* him here and that he is loved and supported no matter what. It has made all the difference. The nutrition program is phenomenal and universally free all students regardless of income, and all managed and prepared by N amazing chef and with as many locally grown products as possible. The educators are incredible, focused not only on maximizing curriculum efficacy but also equitable access to it for students of all needs. Restorative justice practices are immediately implemented upon student altercations or struggles. The kids are all learning so much and so thoroughly, and the staff is all focused as a team on making sure each student has what they need to thrive. They notice when someone is struggling and address it immediately. There is a ton of community engagement and participation facilitated by a fantastic, equity-and-inclusivity-minded principal who directly engages with students on their individual levels. I cannot say enough good things about this school and I am reminded every day of how lucky we feel to have happened to land in this particular community at this particular school.

VUHS is the best high school in the county, hands down. Vergennes is a small community that cares about its students and school district. There is support for school sports teams, music program, and budgets. Because it’s a small school, students are free to be themselves and explore all their interests: sports and theater or student council and tech center, for example. Many outstanding teachers work at this school and the current district administration and school board are among the best in the state. The handling of the COVID pandemic and communication with parents has been excellent, from food delivery early on to the many changes in masking/testing, and now with increased mental health supports for students. A fair number of AP and advanced classes are offered, as well as agriculture, tech classes, and a highly esteemed, fully outdoor program called Walden. Annual school musicals are top notch. The rowing team and environmental club are two unique groups. The facility is in excellent condition thanks to recent updates, with two beautiful gyms, a large and comfortable auditorium, modern science, art, and music classrooms, and hallways that are clean and attractive. My kids enjoyed their HS experiences at VUHS and are now having great success at highly competitive colleges. This school prepares students for college and/or successful entry into a career or training program without making kids feel less than for whichever choice they make. Most importantly, it prepares students for life by instilling values, friendship, and resiliency.