Radnor School Board evaluates charter school proposal for opening on Valley Forge Military Academy campus.
Radnor School Board officials are presently evaluating a proposal for the establishment of the Valley Forge Public Service Academy Charter School, which aims to open its doors in the fall of 2026 on the site of the former Valley Forge Military Academy. As the local school board has not historically approved any charter school applications, this proposal represents a significant moment in the community’s educational landscape.
The initiative is spearheaded by an organized group formed of experienced leadership and a committed board. However, the commencement of this publicly funded charter institution is contingent upon securing approval from the Radnor School Board. The formal approval process was initiated recently at a board meeting, where the organizers presented a vision for a nontraditional high school experience designed to equip students for careers in public service.
Board President Liz Duffy indicated that the board is approaching the hearing with an open mindset focused on gathering comprehensive information about the proposal, stating that no decisions would be made at that meeting. The next steps in the process include at least one more hearing, after which a vote by the board will determine the proposal’s fate. Historically, Radnor has rebuffed similar charter school proposals, citing concerns surrounding the fit and objectives of prior applicants.
The impetus for this charter school arises in the context of the imminent closure of the Valley Forge Military Academy, which is set to shut down permanently in May 2026. The institution has faced numerous challenges over the years, including declining enrollment and issues related to safety and financial management. The campus has also been home to a two-year college, signaling a continued interest in utilizing the space for educational purposes.
Organizers provided a detailed overview of the prospective school’s mission, which focuses on preparing students in grades 6-12 for various public service roles such as law enforcement and emergency response. They emphasize a service-oriented education that promotes character, discipline, and career readiness, responding to the need for educational pathways outside of the traditional four-year college model.
Plans for the facility include a renovation budget of .4 million, aimed at modernizing the existing structures to meet contemporary educational standards. The charter school seeks to cap enrollment from the Radnor School District at 25%, while also inviting students from neighboring school districts, expanding access to a broader audience.
While the proposal has garnered support from various community members and local businesses, concerns about the integration of younger students with college attendees and the overall viability of operating in an aging infrastructure remain. Feedback from residents indicates a cautious optimism, as they engage in discussions about the potential impacts on Radnor’s educational ecosystem.
The next hearing regarding the proposal is scheduled for January 20, where the board will have an opportunity to pose questions to the applicant team. A decision must be reached by March 1, after which the proponents of the charter school could potentially reapply or appeal to the Pennsylvania Department of Education if the application is ultimately rejected.
