At TVS, building character is an intentional practice. Let our experts partner with you to strengthen the heart and mind of your child!
Welcome to Trinity Valley School! I invite you to take a glimpse into our wonderful school and its community. There is joy in our halls, on our stages, and on the playing fields. As you travel through the beautiful missionstyle campus filled with shade trees, you will see our students deep in discussion, laughing uproariously on the playgrounds, and enjoying time with one another.
A Trinity Valley education is about “the possible.” Students at TVS are known and valued for who they are now and for who they can become. Here, it is possible to be a scholar, an athlete, an artist, a scientist, a writer, a musician, and more. Our students delight in participating in a full array of academic and co-curricular activities throughout their time here. The matchless support of our top-notch faculty ensures that students learn how to be their very best selves, buoyed by the encouragement and genuine care they receive from teachers, coaches, and campus leaders. Our faculty members are steadfast in their dedication to offering our students the rich, complete TVS experience in fulfillment of our mission.
Mr. Stephen Seleny, our founding headmaster, wanted students to think deeply and broadly about their own world and the global stage, and the roles they play in both. Today, TVS students continue to carry out his vision through the Global Education Program, where they interact with people across the globe. TVS students become informed global citizens through hosting and visiting others, as well as by harnessing technology to communicate with students in other countries. Through this program’s many facets and thoughtful leadership, our young people from Pre-K through grade 12 develop a keen understanding of the world’s collective humanity, of our similarities across the globe, and how to navigate cultural variations with dignity.
The Trojan Outdoor Education (TOE) Program is in its fifth decade and continues to teach resilience, healthy risktaking, and teamwork through experiential learning. Our Trojans study archeology, master high-ropes courses, and so much more, all the while learning about themselves in ways that are inaccessible in a traditional classroom setting. Stretching out of their comfort zone is an important part of developing grit and shaping thought processes that will serve these students for a lifetime. A defining aspect of TOE is the opportunity for older students to lead and mentor their younger peers in TOE experiences, linking the two groups in unexpected and special ways.
Thank you for considering Trinity Valley School for your family. We encourage you to learn more about us through shared experiences, as these words alone cannot fully convey the whole of TVS. The sense of family we experience today has been a hallmark of the School since its founding in 1959, and we look forward to sharing that with you.
Blair Lowry Head of School
TRINITY VALLEY SCHOOL HAS FOUR MAIN OBJECTIVES FOR ITS STUDENTS.
SOME OF THE WAYS WE FULFILL OUR MISSION:
FINE SCHOLARSHIP WITH ITS FULFILLMENT AT COLLEGE
100% of Students Attend College
Multiple AP Exam Readers and Writers
Visiting Authors/Artists/Experts
Certificate Programs and Senior Projects Student-Faculty Interaction
THE DEVELOPMENT OF WIDE CONSTRUCTIVE INTERESTS
Fine Arts/Athletics
XPLORE Summer Classes
Middle and Upper School Clubs
Middle School Selectives
International Visitors/Host Families
After-School Programs
INTELLIGENT CITIZENSHIP
Trojan Outdoor Experience Program
Global Education Program
Community Service
Community Partners Program
Skills for Tomorrow
Student Mentors
Trojan Tutors Mindmakers
SPIRITUAL AND MORAL DEVELOPMENT WHICH PROMOTES LASTING VALUES
Positive Action/Virtue of the Month
Monthly Character Assemblies
TVS Honor Code House System
Big Sisters/Brothers Advisory Program
RETENTION: More than 97% of our students returned for the 2023-2024 school year; the national average for independent schools is 89.3% (all NAIS day schools) or 94% (similarly sized schools).
1037 2023-2024 ENROLLMENT
24% STUDENTS OF COLOR
52 DIFFERENT ZIP CODES
17% OF STUDENTS RECEIVE NEED-BASED FINANCIAL AID
97% OF STUDENTS RE-ENROLLED
STUDENT-TO-FACULTY RATIO: 11:1
TEACHING FACULTY AVERAGE YEARS TEACHING: 21
TEACHING FACULTY AVERAGE YEARS AT TVS: 11
TEACHING FACULTY WITH MASTER’S DEGREES: 43%
TEACHING FACULTY WITH DOCTORAL DEGREES: 9%
THERE ARE MORE THAN 30 STUDENTDRIVEN CLUBS IN UPPER SCHOOL
THE TVS CAMPUS CONSISTS OF 317,000 SQUARE FEET OF BUILDINGS ON 75 ACRES
TVS FUNDED OVER $245,000 IN PROFESSIONAL DEVELOPMENT & CONTINUING EDUCATION
XPLORE OFFERS MORE THAN 100 SUMMER CAMPS AND CLASSES FOR ALL AGES
TVS FAMILIES REPRESENT MORE THAN 70 DIFFERENT HERITAGE COUNTRIES
16
GRADUATE STATS OVER THE LAST FIVE YEARS
Graduates Awarded Merit Scholarships
73%
Graduates that Attended College or University Out of State or Out of the Country
53%
ENDOWMENT BALANCE APPROXIMATELY $49.3 MILLION 20
Number of States Outside of Texas Our Graduates Attend School
34
Number of Countries
Outside the U.S. Our Graduates Attend School
2
Our foundation in the Lower School (grades PK-4) is built on developmentally appropriate practices. The teaching of social and life skills while planting the seeds of a love of learning begins with our youngest Trojans and continues into grades K-4. Our most passionate area of teaching is a School-wide focus on life skills that we believe will predict success for our children and our community at large. Our faculty and staff model thoughtful, intentional examples of how to make a significant difference in the lives of others. Empathy, compassion, respect, integrity, courage, determination, and cooperation are just a few of the values taught and lived out at Trinity Valley School. We believe these values, along with strong academics, will strengthen the hearts and minds of our children. Curriculum steeped in life skills, monthly assemblies celebrating students who exhibit strong character, and fourth-grade student leaders sharing daily with our students their words of inspiration are the bedrocks of our teaching.
ACADEMICS, ARTS, PE, SPORTS VS. UNSTRUCTURED TIME
DURING A TYPICAL SCHOOL DAY
17% UNSTRUCTURED
Children learn through play. Valuable social and emotional development takes place during free, unstructured playtime. Research proves children are better able to focus and engage in the classroom after a break.
“The importance of the TVS culture cannot be understated - everyone is helping each other to become better versions of themselves. Better students, better teachers, better parents.”
DR. COURTNEY CRAWFORD, LOWER SCHOOL PARENT
“Kindergarten at Trinity Valley is truly magical! It is amazing to watch our young Trojans as they discover math, language, science, and social studies through hands-on play and exploration. My favorite part of teaching Kindergarten is watching my students learn to read and develop a love of learning. Being a part of the Trinity Valley School family is a wonderful experience, and I enjoy helping my students develop relationships that will last a lifetime!”
The amount of physiological and neurological development that occurs during the middle-school years is second only to the first four years in a child’s life, and the Trinity Valley Middle School (grades 5-8) has adopted an approach that considers this pivotal time. Each day, we focus on an environment that not only accentuates individual strengths but also encourages students out of their comfort zones, building resiliency and perseverance. We strive to meet the social, emotional, and cognitive needs of Middle School students while fostering creative problem solving, innovative thinking, and community connection. Through a blend of traditional and unique programming, we provide our students with the tools to be successful inside and outside of the classroom, and more importantly, in life. Our incredible faculty members are constantly pushing themselves, and though they are experts in their fields, they are - first and foremost - experts in student engagement.
JULIE KNUDSEN, HEAD OF MIDDLE SCHOOL
ACADEMICS, ARTS, PE, SPORTS VS. UNSTRUCTURED TIME
DURING A TYPICAL SCHOOL DAY
22% UNSTRUCTURED
Daily recess provides opportunities to navigate social dynamics. Dedicated study hall allows students to develop time-management skills. A cascading schedule means subjects meet at different times each day.
I teach science because in no other job can you make a mess, blow things up, play with microscopes, and ignite a lasting love for science. I teach science because it allows me to open students’ minds to our magical, mystical world. I want my students to embrace the possibilities of science through experimentation, develop a critical lens when looking at the world, and love the fun that goes with it. Guiding students to understand ‘why’ is my greatest joy.”
Since 1981
“
TVS provides an environment that focuses on kindness and compassion. You feel it the minute you step on campus.”
ALLISON JONES, MIDDLE SCHOOL PARENT
In the Upper School, every program, interaction, and opportunity is designed to prepare our young people for college and the broader world. Students are led by our talented, dedicated faculty: experts in their fields and innovative teachers committed to modeling productive working relationships. Students learn to grow as scholars and are encouraged to contribute broadly to the athletic, artistic, and service life of the School. Students also have the opportunity to explore signature offerings in Computer Science & Digital Fabrication, Innovation & Entrepreneurship, Global/Multicultural Studies, and Outdoor Leadership. Intelligent citizenship is discussed, practiced, and lived out. The TVS community is defined by warmth, connection, and mutual respect. Through their deep involvement in the community of the School and the development of their passion and agency, students grow as leaders and young people who know how to collaborate effectively.
ACADEMICS, ARTS, PE, SPORTS VS. UNSTRUCTURED TIME DURING A TYPICAL SCHOOL DAY
34% UNSTRUCTURED
Students have time to participate in clubs, meet with teachers, study, and attend to schoolwork during the academic day. They learn to manage their time in preparation for the freedom found in a college setting.
KYLE KAHUDA, HEAD OF UPPER SCHOOL“TVS is a school that recognizes the strengths of each child and then teaches that child as an individual.”
“I fell in love with Trinity Valley 10 minutes after I arrived, which was nine minutes after I began talking to School Founder Stephen Seleny! Mr. Seleny’s vision combined strong spiritual values with powerful intellectual growth. Dynamic athletic and artistic achievements are emphasized in Trinity Valley culture, giving all students the opportunity to become impressive, wellrounded people. Over my nearly 35 years at Trinity Valley, I hope my love of studying history has been contagious to all in my classroom, transforming what might be viewed as merely a required course into an eagerly anticipated highlight of their day.”
Since 1989
The philosophy of the athletic program at Trinity Valley School is to enhance the students’ cognitive, physical, social, and emotional wellbeing through selected athletic activities consistent with the TVS mission statement. The athletic program provides the students with opportunities to compete against other schools, to be challenged as individuals, and to learn to work with others to achieve goals as a team.
BASEBALL
BOYS’ GOLF
BOYS’ VOLLEYBALL
GIRLS’ SOCCER
GIRLS’ VOLLEYBALL
INDIVIDUAL TRACK
“I am a Trojan lifer. I was a 13-year student, attended Wake Forest University on a field hockey scholarship, and am now in my 19th year at Trinity Valley as head field hockey coach. While winning is fun and ensures that everyone involved is content, we as a staff seek teachable moments. We believe that in order to promote growth and learning, we must instill attributes such as mindfulness, accountability, and resilience while creating an enthusiastic and fun environment.”
CLAIRE PEARCE ’01, FIELD HOCKEY COACH
Since 2005
GRADES K-8 HAVE PHYSICAL EDUCATION
5 DAYS PER WEEK
PRE-K: 3 DAYS PER WEEK
23 SPORTS
68 TEAMS/YEAR
A 40-plus year tradition of taking our students out of the classroom to add to their overall education through experiential learning
Do you want your child to succeed? Let him or her fail. Resilience is born through the Trojan Outdoor Experience (TOE) Program. By fostering an environment of healthy risk-taking, teamwork, and self-discovery, the program encourages students to explore the world in innovative ways.
IF YOUR CHILD WERE TO BEGIN TVS IN PRE-KINDERGARTEN, HE OR SHE WOULD SPEND 16-25 NIGHTS IN THE GREAT OUTDOORS THROUGH THE TOE PROGRAM BEFORE GRADUATION.
Upper School course
“Archaeology: Digging into History” is team-teaching at its finest. The course introduces the science and processes of an archaeological dig site. Then themes are shared around Equity and Inclusion: archaeology gives voice to people whose stories have never been parts of written historical records. Students understand how archeology helps us view a classical culture and community. The class works at our Salado property on digs with experts in the fields of archaeology and geology.
640 TOTAL HOURS OF ACTIVE OUTDOOR LEARNING EXPERIENCES
A TVS family has generously partnered with the School to provide our students and faculty access to the family’s land in Salado. There have been over 2.5 million artifacts and mammoth remains collected on only 3% of the property. Our Trojans are studying university-level archaeology and anthropology as part of our TOE program.
Do you want your child to see the world through different lenses? Do you want to instill respect and understanding of people of diverse backgrounds? We prepare all our students to become globally connected, conscientious citizens through online and in-person exchanges. We want our students to become leaders by cultivating the essential global competencies and life skills of self-awareness, cross-cultural communication and understanding, and empathy. Global Education is found in all grade levels, PK-12, and in and out of the classroom.
260 STUDENTS & TEACHERS HAVE HOME-HOSTED 263 INTERNATIONAL GUESTS FROM 16 COUNTRIES SINCE THE LAUNCH OF THE PROGRAM IN 2011
IN-PERSON
WITH STUDENTS, TEACHERS, & INTERNATIONAL ASSISTANT TEACHERS
112,278 MILES 10 COUNTRIES
VIRTUAL MILES TRAVELED LIVE & RECORDED VIDEO EXCHANGES & ONLINE DISCUSSIONS
32,000+ MILES 7 COUNTRIES
The Arts faculty at TVS employs both traditional and non-traditional methods to expand and enrich each student’s creative capabilities. It is important for all students to understand the fundamental aspects of these disciplines and recognize that these experiences build intellectual curiosity and academic growth. Creativity is a tremendous asset in any endeavor, from the sciences and mathematics to law and back again to the arts.
VISUAL ART: Drawing, painting, ceramics, oil pastels, weaving
MUSIC: Kodaly approach to music; ORFF instruments; pitched and non-pitched instruments; choir (3rd and 4th grades); OAKE Honor Choir; violin, cello, and piano lessons available
PERFORMING ARTS: Class plays each year — stage production with costumes
DANCE: Ballet, jazz, lyrical, and hip-hop available after school
VISUAL ART: Drawing, painting, printmaking, ceramics, industrial design, photography
MUSIC: Vocal instruction; ORFF instruments; drums; video production; choir and OAKE Honor Choir; strings ensemble; violin, cello, and piano lessons available
PERFORMING ARTS: Drama Club, 5th- and 6th-grade musical, 7thand 8th-grade musical with an average cast size of 80+ students
DANCE: ABT ® ballet, jazz, lyrical, and hip-hop; competitive performance program; athletic credit available
VISUAL ART: Includes 2D drawing and painting, 3D studies, mosaics and fused glass, ceramics, photography, professional artist workshops, juried art shows, and annual student-led exhibition
MUSIC: Choir; Honor Choir; OAKE Honor Choir; strings ensemble; drumline; All-State Choir and All-State Orchestra; violin, cello, and piano lessons available
PERFORMING ARTS: Annual musical, drama, and comedy productions; senior-directed one-act plays
TECHNICAL THEATER: Full workshop, set design and construction, lighting and sound design
DANCE: Ballet, jazz, lyrical, and hip-hop; competitive performance program; athletic and fine art credit available
Students participate in the ISAS Arts Festival with other schools
7, 300 SQUARE FEET OF STUDIO ART SPACE IN FIVE STUDIOS FOR STUDENTS
“I love theater because of its power to effect positive change in the world. I love sharing that passion with my students. I prefer to work on plays that are just a little beyond our reach, for it is in the stretching required to produce them that much growth happens. I never settle for mediocrity on the stage because I know what students are capable of achieving when they really give it their all. Often, when stretched, they end up surprising even themselves at how much they accomplished. I am thrilled when student actors and designers courageously overcome obstacles to gain confidence that will serve them for a lifetime. That’s the beauty — and magic — of theater!”
Since 2008
At TVS, we focus on fostering both deep intellectual curiosity and lasting intelligent citizenship. Our goal is to prepare our students to become responsible, active citizens in their community and the world. TVS students are active in the life of the School and contribute to the well-being of their classmates. Our Trojan Outdoor Experience and Global Education Programs test our students’ adversity and teach them about global citizenship, as well as the importance of connections and community. Community Service strives to instill in each student an awareness of the multiple needs in our community, a sense of moral obligation to help those less fortunate than oneself, and the desire to make one’s community a better place. Additionally, within our own TVS family, students mentor and tutor other children through student mentoring and our Trojan Tutors program. There are lots of fun interactions between older and younger buddies campus-wide. Caring for others is an important part of who we are!
ADMISSIONS OFFICE
817.321.0100 | TVS.org
REGAN GILSTRAP ’01
Director of Admissions & Enrollment Management gilstrapr@tvs.org
ALLISON SHAPARD
Associate Director of Admissions shaparda@tvs.org
Trinity Valley School is an independent, co-ed, college preparatory, day school for students in Pre-Kindergarten through grade 12. It is the policy of Trinity Valley to administer its educational programs, including admissions and financial aid, without regard to race, color, religion, gender, sexual orientation, national or ethic origin, or disability.
In pursuit of educational excellence, we believe fine scholarship and intelligent citizenship are best achieved in a welcoming, inclusive, and diverse community where every person experiences a strong sense of belonging. We commit to teaching and learning in a way that develops students to be upstanding and empathetic leaders to shape a more hopeful world.
