FAQ
Frequently Asked QuestionsSocratic Discussions
What Are They?
Socratic discussions are the basis of much of the learning at Vail Valley Unbound. We start our days with a “launch” that is a discussion used to launch into our day. We also use them in our civilization lessons in upper elementary as well.
An example morning launch looks like this:
Intro (delivered by the Guide): Stevie Wonder, a famous musician with an eye disorder, once said, “Just because someone lacks the use of their eyes doesn’t mean they lack vision.”
We then follow that with a question where we ask the learners to take a side and support it.
Question: Do you agree or disagree with this quote?
The discussion continues with additional questions, maybe some additional information that might sway decisions and finally a conclusion.
Conclusion: This discussion was meant to bring your attention to how grateful we should be to have all of our senses working. You can do anything you set your mind to!
Frequently Asked Questions
What makes Vail Valley Unbound Unique?
- Focus on building skills through Socratic discussions rather than lectures
- Multi-age classes
- Self-paced, mastery-based learning – public exhibitions instead of grades
- Student (learner) driven
- Deep respect for the child and their individual journey
- No homework
- Guides rather than teachers, shifting the knowledge source away from teachers and empowering learners
- Utilization of community resources (parks, rec centers, local businesses)
Who is behind Vail Valley Unbound?
- Zak Boca: serial entrepreneur, 10x Inc 500 CEO, parent
- Cassie Boca: serial entrepreneur, parent
- Heather McMahon: veteran educator, founder of Youth Enrichment School, parent
- Dennis McMahon: founder of HyFyve, parent
- Nichole Swann: pediatric psychologist, entrepreneur, parent
- Kim Tofferi: 30+ year Vail Valley community member
- Deana Brewer: International educator, entrepreneur
What is the Socratic method and why does Vail Valley Unbound use it?
Outside of discussions, guides use the Socratic method throughout the day to reinforce the idea that students are capable of answering their own questions. This encourages them to be independent learners who are not reliant on the guide for information. Consequently, the Socratic method is an important and proven pedagogical tool that helps learners to think critically and learn independently.
Where will you be located?
What are your school hours?
How much homework is there?
We believe that children need time to play, relax, and be with family and friends. Homework is not assigned.
What is Vail Valley Unbound tuition?
2023-24 school year tuition is $15,000. We offer financial aid for all families that have been accepted using the TADS financial aid system. Once accepted, families will have access to our financial aid application.
What is your application process?
First step is to fill out our application in the upper right corner of the website. We will officially open enrollment in January 2023, the families on our waitlist will be the first we are in contact with to schedule family interviews. Please take the time to read Courage to Grow by Laura Sandefer while you’re waiting! Once we have worked through our initial waitlist of families, if there are still openings we will open enrollment in March.