Four Valleys Community School’s core purpose is to enrich community by providing educational, cultural and recreational activities for each resident of the Four Valleys. We are a local, non-profit 501c3 tax exempt organization based in Girdwood, Alaska.
Founded in 1980 and established as an independent non-profit in 2004, Four Valleys Community School (FVCS) operates in Girdwood, Alaska. This transition occurred following the elimination of state and school funding for the district-wide Community Schools Program. FVCS is built on a community education model that leverages local resources to foster lifelong learning, while offering educational, cultural, and recreational opportunities for residents of all ages.
The organization is guided by eight key goals:
- Enrich K-8 regular and homeschool programs by integrating community resources.
- Foster interagency collaboration with Four Valleys Community School.
- Build community by engaging and recognizing volunteers, fundraising for programs, and promoting activities and events.
- Increase youth involvement beyond the regular and homeschool K-12 programs.
- Provide and integrate cultural, recreational, and educational opportunities for adults.
- Optimize scheduling and utilization of school and other public and private facilities.
- Advocate for and advance community education.
- Secure diverse, sustainable, and renewable funding to support the ongoing success of Four Valleys Community School programs.
In the absence of amenities like a YMCA, community center, health club, or Sylvan Learning Center in Girdwood, Four Valleys Community School has stepped in to fill this void. Our organization thrives in a community that deeply values education and enriching experiences, ensuring vibrant and dynamic support for our programs.
We collaborate with the Anchorage School District to utilize the Girdwood School building after hours, providing local residents with access to a facility they might not otherwise use. This partnership exemplifies how public buildings can be effectively used to benefit the surrounding community.
Our dedicated volunteer instructors are essential to our success, generously contributing their time and skills to enhance our community. Without their support, our work would not be possible.
Four Valleys Community School remains committed to offering meaningful educational, cultural, and recreational opportunities, reinforcing our role as a truly community-based organization.
