B U S I N E S S + C U LT U R E 55 Headmaster John L. Davis Sr. with Valwood students. B U S I N E S S + C U LT U R E 55 In 2000, with Scott Wilson as the headmaster, Valwood received a gift of 45 acres from the Howard Dasher Company to construct a larger school. Located on Old U.S. Highway 41 North, the new school opened in August 2002. Today, with an enrollment of 450 students in pre-kindergarten through 12th grade, Valwood’s sprawling campus features state-of-the-art facilities that serve as a testament to the dedication and perseverance of those who had the vision five decades ago to create an independent college preparatory school. Envisioning the Future In August 2017, the Valwood board hired John L. Davis Sr. as the school’s next headmaster. An experienced educator, Davis spent 30 years with Valdosta City Schools. “There are a lot of great educational choices for students in Valdosta and Lowndes County,” said Davis, who served as principal of S.L. Mason Elementary School for 24 years. “At Valwood we also have students from CONTRIBUTED PHOTO Florida and bordering counties. We invite parents to give us an opportunity to show them what we are doing at Valwood and what makes us unique. “Our class sizes are small; we try not to have more than 16 students per class. I am impressed with the staff and qualified teachers. Many of our teachers are retired from surrounding school systems, and they bring many years of experience.” Davis added that the small class size provides not only high-quality instruction but also long-lasting friendships. “When Valwood students graduate, they realize they aren’t finished with the school,” Davis said. “They are still connected, part of a family. Many of our graduates bring their children to Valwood.” Valwood currently has 17 second- generation students enrolled and one third-generation student. “Many of our alumni come back to start their professional careers here in Valdosta,” Davis said. “They are the ones that are helping to build this school for the next 50 years.” Year-long Celebration The anniversary celebration began in August at convocation and includes events and activities throughout the 2017-2018 academic year. “The 50th anniversary celebrates the evolution of our institution since the day it was chartered in 1968,” said Susanna Dover, director of development and alumni relations. “Dynamic changes have occurred during our 50 years spanning three campuses and over 900 alumni.” Dover said that the basic premise on which the school was founded has remained during five decades. “Valwood provides an opportunity in our community for exceptional independent education while ensuring guidance and leadership in a small classroom setting,” said Dover, who graduated from Valwood PHOTO: PAUL LEAVY