An independent Christian School serving students PreK3-12th grade.
Upper School
Dear TVS Families,
It is an honor and a privilege to return to the Upper School at The Village School of Naples. I am thrilled to be back with each of you and to work alongside our exceptional faculty who are deeply committed to your students’ personal, academic, and emotional success.
In my many years as an educator, I have served students across various educational levels—from early elementary to college—both in teaching and counseling roles. This experience has solidified my belief that true success is rooted not only in academic achievement but also in student wellness. These formative high school years are marked by tremendous growth, self-discovery, and preparation for life beyond graduation. It is during this time that mental health and emotional well-being must be treated as essential components of a student's education.
At TVS, we are deeply committed to creating an environment where every student feels safe, supported, and valued. Our focus on wellness means fostering a culture of belonging—where students are encouraged to take healthy risks, embrace challenges, and step outside of their comfort zones, knowing they are backed by a community that cares about them as individuals.
We continue to enhance our support systems, including access to counseling services, wellness programming, and faculty who are trained to identify and respond to student needs with empathy and care. We believe that academic success is best achieved when students are emotionally balanced and mentally resilient.
Our students will have the opportunity to engage in our college readiness initiatives, including the Quest for Success Program and hands-on experiences through job shadowing and internships. These programs not only prepare students for their “reach” college or university but also help them cultivate life skills that are essential for future careers and personal fulfillment. The Quest team's guidance is a distinguishing feature of the Upper School experience and is more important than ever in today’s evolving college landscape.
Academically, our students benefit from a rich and rigorous curriculum, with over 70 course offerings—including 20 Advanced Placement classes—that challenge them to think critically and engage deeply with meaningful content. Rooted in our Christian values and Christ skills, our program not only sharpens intellect but also shapes character. Beyond the classroom, students are encouraged to pursue their passions through vibrant visual and performing arts, competitive athletics, and a variety of academic clubs—ensuring they grow as well-rounded individuals ready to lead with purpose.
We are proud of our innovative modular schedule, which offers greater flexibility, deeper exploration, and a more personalized approach to learning. Whether students are pursuing advanced coursework, participating in internships, or exploring their passions, they are supported by a dedicated faculty who know and nurture them—personally, emotionally, and academically.
This is the heart of our mission and vision: to empower and inspire students to think deeply, lead compassionately, and face the world’s challenges with confidence and creativity.
Thank you for partnering with us as your child continues their journey in the Upper School at The Village School of Naples. We look forward to a year of growth, connection, and well-being—for every student.
With kindness
,
Erin Kolakowski, M.A., NCC
Head of Upper School
The Village School of Naples's Upper School is dedicated to providing a dynamic and comprehensive education that prepares students for the challenges of college and beyond. Welcoming a diverse student population, whether new to our school or have grown up within our community, the Upper School fosters an environment where every student can thrive. Our curriculum emphasizes critical thinking and problem-solving, equipping students with the skills to excel in a rapidly changing world.
With over 70 different classes, honors courses, and electives available across every grade level and discipline, our Upper School offers a wide range of academic opportunities. Students have access to 22 Advanced Placement (AP) courses, allowing them to pursue rigorous academic challenges that prepare them for admission to the nation’s top colleges and universities. As an AP Capstone School, we provide a pathway for students to develop research, analysis, and communication skills essential for academic success. Our STREAM (Science, Technology, Religion, Engineering, Arts, and Math) curriculum further enhances students’ educational experiences by integrating these disciplines in meaningful and innovative ways.
Our commitment to academic excellence and personal growth enriches the upper school experience. The Quest College Success Counseling program is vital in helping students navigate the college admissions process, providing personalized guidance during the school day to ensure they find the right fit for their post-secondary education. Additionally, students benefit from The Village Success Center, a neurodiverse program offering specialized services to stretch the brightest students and support those with language-based learning and math differences.
A standout feature of our Upper School is the Village School of Naples Internship and Shadowing Program. This innovative program offers 11th and 12th-grade students the unique opportunity to engage in experiential learning beyond the traditional classroom setting. This program connects students with experienced professionals in various fields, including business and medicine. The program empowers students by allowing them to explore their career interests, acquire practical work experience, and cultivate the skills and knowledge necessary for future success in the workforce. Internships are an invaluable way for students to explore different career options, develop their skills, and build relationships with professionals in their chosen fields.
Our Athletic Department is also an integral part of the overall educational and spiritual experience at The Village School. We offer a wide range of sports, including:
- Baseball
- Basketball
- Cheer
- Cross Country
- Golf
- Lacrosse
- Soccer
- Swimming
- Tennis
- Track & Field
- Volleyball
These athletic programs culminate at the Varsity level, where student-athletes can compete in the Florida High School Athletic Association (FHSAA) state series. These programs promote physical fitness and instill values such as teamwork, discipline, and perseverance, which are essential for success both on and off the field.
Beyond academics and athletics, our Upper School at The Village School of Naples offers various clubs and organizations that allow students to explore their interests and develop leadership skills. These clubs and organizations allow students to engage in meaningful extracurricular activities, contribute to their community, and build lifelong friendships. These include:
- National Honor Society
- Student Government
- STREAM Organizations
- Visual & Performing Arts
- Religious & Service Organizations
The Upper School at The Village School of Naples is committed to developing well-rounded students prepared for the future. Through a balanced combination of challenging academics, personal growth opportunities, real-world experiences like internships, and a supportive community, our students are empowered to achieve their full potential and make a meaningful impact in the world.