Welcome to Hidden Valley Forest School

Balanced Learning. Big Adventures. Whole-Child Growth.

Hidden Valley Forest School is a licensed, mixed-age microschool in Crozet, Virginia, serving children ages 5–8 (Core Program) and 5-11 (Aftercare Program).

We offer a balanced approach to education — combining structured, standards-aligned academics with meaningful outdoor exploration and child-led play. Each day includes intentional learning in literacy, math, science, history, and geography, alongside approximately two hours outdoors in all seasons.

At HVFS, children build strong foundational skills while still having space to move, imagine, collaborate, and grow.

A Well-Rounded, Joyful Education

We believe children thrive when learning feels both purposeful and engaging.

Our English Language Arts instruction is informed by Reading A–Z, providing systematic literacy development in phonics, fluency, comprehension, and writing. Mathematics, science, history, and geography are guided by the Core Knowledge framework, ensuring a coherent, content-rich progression of learning.

Lessons are structured and thoughtfully sequenced, yet always delivered in ways that are developmentally appropriate and responsive to each child. We strive to make learning meaningful, hands-on, and connected to real understanding — not rushed or rigid.

Mixed-Age Classrooms

Our program embraces multi-age learning. Children are not separated by rigid grade levels. Instead, instruction is tailored to each student’s readiness and growth.

Older students naturally step into leadership roles, mentoring younger peers. Younger students benefit from peer modeling and build confidence within a supportive community.

With small class sizes and just 12 students per day, every child is deeply known.

Approximately Two Hours Outdoors, Every Day

Outdoor time is a core part of our rhythm.

Students climb, build forts, organize games, explore the woods, and engage in imaginative play. Outdoor experiences support resilience, collaboration, creativity, and physical strength.

After focused academic learning indoors, children need space to move and reset. We intentionally protect that balance.

Our Programs

Core Program (Ages 5–8)

Monday–Thursday | 9:00 AM – 3:00 PM

Our Core Program blends structured academic instruction with daily outdoor exploration and creative expression. Families may choose a full four-day schedule or select specific days based on availability.

Tuition is based on a $60 per day rate, billed monthly using a four-week month.

Core Program Tuition

• 1 day per week: $240/month

• 2 days per week: $480/month

• 3 days per week: $720/month

• 4 days per week: $960/month

Aftercare Program (Ages 5–11)

Monday–Thursday | 3:00–5:30 PM

Aftercare at HVFS is intentionally child-led and play-centered. Children build forts, climb trees, organize games, and explore freely within safe boundaries. Teachers serve as “play workers” — present to ensure safety, guide social dynamics, and support positive peer interactions.

Children who thrive in our aftercare program are typically self-starters, nature lovers, comfortable being outdoors in all weather, and able to play collaboratively in a mixed-age setting.

Aftercare Tuition

Monthly tuition is based on a four-week month:

• 1 day/week: $70

• 2 days/week: $140

• 3 days/week: $210

• 4 days/week: $280

Drop-in care: $25/day (based on availability)

Tuition is based on the selected weekly schedule and is not prorated for absences.

Aftercare Transportation (Optional Add-On)

HVFS offers school pick-up from Crozet-area schools when scheduling allows.

Families utilizing transportation are charged a $2.50 per day transportation fee, billed monthly based on the selected pick-up schedule. Transportation fees are not prorated for absences.

Licensed for Safety and Quality

Hidden Valley Forest School is licensed by the state of Virginia and meets all health and safety standards set by the Virginia Department of Education.

Our teachers undergo background checks, maintain CPR and First Aid certification, and complete annual professional development training. Families can feel confident knowing their children are learning and playing in a safe, well-regulated environment.

A Small School with Big Heart

Founded in 2022, HVFS offers a small, consistent learning environment where children are known, supported, and encouraged to grow — academically, socially, and emotionally.

We honor childhood while guiding children toward the skills, knowledge, and confidence they need for the years ahead.

Schedule a Tour

info@hiddenvalleyforestschool.com
434-760-5835