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Valley Academy opens new building, expands programs and enrollment, district leaders say
Summary
Valley Academy of Learning moved into a new facility, increased enrollment and launched new programs including a high school program and a mixed‑grade "Mustang Link" classroom, district staff told the board.
District staff and family representatives described the transition of Valley Academy of Learning into a new, larger building and outlined program expansions and enrollment growth at a school board meeting.
Shelly Gelsing, director of programs at Valley Academy, said staff worked through a busy summer to unpack and prepare classrooms. She reported full‑time‑equivalent (FTE) enrollment rose from about 174 when she started to 188.41 the prior year and to roughly 286 FTE in the current year. “We have definitely been increasing in our numbers,” Gelsing said.
Gelsing outlined new and continuing programs: a Valley High School program that enrolled 22 students this year (most full time); a Mustang Link mixed classroom primarily for grades 1–2 that uses a one‑room‑schoolhouse model; part‑time kindergarten (14 hours per week on the learning plan: six hours at school and eight hours at home); and an online program led by one teacher to serve students not in traditional models.
Students and parents also presented during the update. Seventh‑grader Aurelia Fermancic told the board she appreciates choosing classes and learning at her own pace at Valley. Fourth‑grader Liliana Fermancic said the new building has a gym and cafeteria space and more windows.
Shane Rennie, director for special education, described the logistical work to move the district’s transition program into the Columbia campus, thanking custodial, facilities and nutrition staff for routing, keys and meal planning. He credited teacher Beth Sykes and the program team for interior planning and called the new classrooms “stepping stones to real life.” Rennie and Gelsing said the program includes community partners who provide coaching and training and that families are reporting increased independence and confidence among students.
Board members thanked staff and partners but did not vote on any new policy or funding for Valley Academy during the presentation. Staff said phase two planning is underway.
