Frequently Asked Questions

Choosing a school is a big decision, and it’s natural to have questions. Whether you’re just beginning to explore Christian education or you’re ready to take the next step, we’re here to help.

At Vista Ridge Academy, we believe every child is picked for a purpose. Here are answers to some of the questions families often ask as they discover whether Vista Ridge Academy is the right fit for their child.

A Seventh-day Adventist school is a Christian school where faith and learning are woven together. Rooted in the Bible and centered on Jesus, Adventist education seeks to nurture the whole child—spiritually, intellectually, physically, socially, and emotionally—recognizing that every child is created by God with unique gifts, value, and purpose.

Adventist education goes beyond academic achievement. It encourages students to think critically, explore God’s creation, develop strong character, build meaningful relationships, and discover how they can use their talents to serve others. We believe education should prepare students not only for success in life, but also to live with faith, compassion, integrity, and purpose.

At Vista Ridge Academy, these beliefs come to life every day. Through engaging academics, Bible learning, prayer, worship, service, and our Eagle Way values, students learn to reflect Jesus in how they think, lead, learn, and treat others. Our mission is to grow confident minds, strong bodies, and loving spirits in a personally attentive, Christ-centered community where every child is known, encouraged, and challenged to grow.

As part of the worldwide Seventh-day Adventist education system, Vista Ridge Academy partners with families to help students develop their God-given potential and become thoughtful learners, caring friends, and compassionate leaders.

Not at all! Families from a variety of faith backgrounds are welcome to explore Vista Ridge Academy. You do not need to be a Seventh-day Adventist to apply.

We welcome families who value a Christ-centered education and want their children to grow in a community that encourages kindness, respect, service, and spiritual growth. We believe strong school communities are built through shared values, meaningful relationships, and a commitment to helping every child thrive.

No. Attending Vista Ridge Academy does not require your family to become Seventh-day Adventist. We do, however, want families to understand that Christian faith is an important part of our school experience. Students participate in age-appropriate Bible learning, prayer, worship, and other spiritual activities as part of school life.

At Vista Ridge Academy, faith is more than a Bible lesson. Students begin their days with devotion and prayer, gather for Friday chapel, learn to care for others, and look for opportunities to serve their school and community.

Our Buddy Program creates opportunities for students in different grade levels to read, pray, celebrate, and serve together. Through these experiences, students learn that following Jesus shapes how we learn, lead, build relationships, and treat others.

We recommend starting with a campus tour! Visiting Vista Ridge Academy gives you an opportunity to explore our classrooms, meet our team, ask questions, and picture your child as part of our community.

When you’re ready, our admissions process helps us get to know your child and family, understand your child’s learning needs, and determine whether Vista Ridge Academy is a good fit.

Vista Ridge Academy serves students from preschool (age 3) through Grade 8, with programs designed to support children as they grow from early learners into confident, capable leaders.

Children entering preschool must turn three by the first day of school in August. Children entering Kindergarten must turn five by October 1.

If you have questions about your child’s readiness or placement, we’re happy to talk through them with you.

Our process typically includes:

The specific steps depend on your child’s grade level. Our team will guide you through the process and explain what is needed along the way.

Readiness visits and assessments help us understand where your child is academically and developmentally. Preschool, Pre-K, and Kindergarten applicants participate in an age-appropriate readiness visit. Students applying for Grades 1–8 complete reading and math assessments.

These experiences help us learn about your child and consider how we can best support their learning.

We encourage families to begin exploring Vista Ridge Academy early, especially if they have a particular grade level or school year in mind. Application timelines and available space may vary by grade.

Contact our admissions team for current application dates and to learn about availability for your child.

Families are welcome to contact us about midyear enrollment. Admission depends on availability and whether Vista Ridge Academy can appropriately support the student’s needs. We’ll help you understand the options for your child’s grade level.

We believe children thrive when they are known, valued, and encouraged. Our personally attentive approach helps teachers understand each student’s strengths, learning needs, and opportunities for growth.

We want every student to be challenged academically, supported in areas of difficulty, and encouraged to discover their God-given talents.

At Vista Ridge Academy, families appreciate a community where children are known, cared for, and encouraged to grow. Students build meaningful relationships with teachers and classmates, learn alongside peers of different ages through our Buddy Program, gather for chapel, and discover the joy of serving others.

Our Eagle Way helps bring our community together through Christ-centered living, honor, exploration, responsibility, integrity, service, and heroism. These values shape how we learn, lead, and care for one another, creating a place where students can grow in faith, discover their God-given talents, and find a sense of belonging.

Students have opportunities to explore their interests through activities, clubs, EdVentures, athletics, and hands-on learning experiences.

Our programs vary by grade level and school year, but we aim to give students meaningful opportunities to discover their interests, build skills, develop friendships, and grow as leaders.

We believe education works best when school and home work together. We value open communication, family involvement, and a shared commitment to each child’s growth.

We want parents to feel comfortable asking questions, sharing insights about their children, and partnering with teachers to support student success.

Tuition varies by program and grade level. We offer different enrollment options for Preschool and Pre-K, as well as a tuition rate for Kindergarten through Grade 8.

Visit our Tuition & Fees page for current rates, payment options, discounts, additional expenses, and financial assistance opportunities.

Yes. Eligible families may qualify for Vista Ridge Academy need-based tuition assistance or other scholarship and support programs. Opportunities may include ACE Scholarships, church tuition assistance, Partnering for Eternity, and Colorado Child Care Assistance Program benefits for eligible early childhood families.

Availability and eligibility requirements vary. We encourage families to ask questions about the options that may be available to them.

We’d love to talk with you! Every child has unique strengths, interests, and needs. A conversation and campus visit can help us learn more about your family and help you decide whether Vista Ridge Academy is a good match.

You don’t have to have everything figured out before reaching out. We’re happy to answer your questions, help you understand the admissions process, and show you what makes Vista Ridge Academy a special place to learn and grow.

You belong here. Let’s get to know each other!

Or contact us directly:

Vista Ridge Academy
3100 Ridge View Drive
Erie, CO 80516
303-828-4944
hello@vistaridge.org