About Us

35+ Years of Academic Excellence

At BVS, we offer an exceptional educational experience designed to set students on a path to success. With over three decades of excellence, our distinctive approach provides the opportunity to graduate with three globally recognized diplomas: Costa Rican, American High School, and IB.

Central to our approach is our commitment to implementing best-proven practices, adopting innovative methodologies, collaborating with educational leaders, and continually upskilling our talented teachers. Our rigorous academics provide superior preparation for students to achieve top results in school and formal examinations, earning praise from university instructors and industry leaders alike.

Meanwhile, our Sports and Fine Arts Academies cultivate their skills and talents in athletics and the arts, ensuring a well-rounded development. At BVS, students gain a deep understanding of the curriculum and acquire real-world competencies, paving the way for lifelong achievement.

Welcome to Blue Valley School, where excellence and bilingual education converge. With a proud history of local success in Costa Rica since 1989, BVS has been molding young minds into confident individuals ready to lead the world. We're not simply a school; we're an Inspired School, an integral part of the global group of prestigious educational institutions.

At Blue Valley, quality is our hallmark. We proudly hold accreditation from NEASC (New England Association of Schools and Colleges) as well as the International Baccalaureate Diploma Program. Our journey commences with the Inspired Early Years approach, establishing a robust foundation for learning. As our students progress, they are guided through a dynamic blend of both US and Costa Rican content, culminating in the esteemed IBDP.

Our team of educators isn't just experienced; they are the foremost experts in the field. They advocate for a constructivist approach to learning, fostering independent thinking and nurturing curious minds at every stage of development.

If you find yourself in the San José area, we extend a warm invitation to step onto our vibrant campus. Experience learning in its diverse forms, witness the energy of our engaged student body and feel the genuine passion for learning that permeates our campus. Please don't hesitate to pay us a visit – we would love to show you how BVS is shaping the future, one Inspired student at a time.

Ms Kathryn Scanlan, Head of School

A Legacy of Dedication & Achievement in Education

At Blue Valley School, respect, excellence, and service guide us daily. Founded in 1989 by María Cristina Gutiérrez de Urbina and passionate parents, Blue Valley began with a vision for holistic education. Starting with 38 students, our founders aimed to prepare students for higher education while nurturing their confidence, values, and civic responsibility.

Today, Blue Valley flourishes with over 790 students from preschool to twelfth grade on the western edge of San José. Our beautiful and expansive campus reflects our commitment to offering an exceptional learning environment. From our humble beginnings to our status as a leading educational institution, our mission remains: to empower students to excel academically, socially, and civically.

A Blended Curriculum

At Blue Valley School, we seamlessly integrate top-tier educational methodologies into every stage of the learning journey. Starting with our youngest learners, we implement the Inspired Early Years Approach, which blends various globally recognized teaching methods, including Reggio Emilia and Montessori. As students progress, we combine the best international and US practices with a curriculum approved by the Costa Rican Ministry of Public Education. Additionally, as an IB World school, we offer students the flexibility to choose their graduation path according to their individual career aspirations, supporting them throughout.

Our Values

Blue Valley School’s philosophy is based on three fundamental principles:

Respect for the individual
A quest for excellence
Service

We aim to empower happy, independent leaders: Our Inspired school in Costa Rica cultivates confidence, encouragement, and personal responsibility for students' fulfilling growth and success.

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Endless Possibilities Await You at BVS

A Blended Curriculum

Our Values