In a move that could reshape the educational landscape of Radnor Township, the local school board is weighing a proposal to transform the soon‑to‑close Valley Forge Military Academy into a charter school that would center on public‑service careers.
Valley Forge Military Academy Closure
Valley Forge Military Academy is scheduled to shut its doors at the end of the 2025‑2026 school year, with the final student cohort graduating in May 2026. The academy’s closure has left the community and the school board with the task of determining how the historic campus will be used moving forward.
Board Hearing and Proposal
At a meeting held on Tuesday, December 16, the Valley Forge Public Service Academy presented a three‑hour proposal. The presentation outlined a plan to convert the military academy into a charter school focused on students interested in public‑service jobs. According to NBC10’s Kelsey Kushner, the board members are now faced with deciding what to do after the academy closes.
“We want to provide students with a school that has a day that is structured, meaningful and connected to real world opportunities,” said Valley Forge Public Service Charter School CEO Steve Flannel during the presentation.
Curriculum and Career Focus
The proposed charter school would blend traditional academics with hands‑on training and certifications. The curriculum is designed to prepare students to graduate with career pathways as first responders, law enforcement officers, or firefighters. Presenters emphasized the importance of encouraging interest in public‑service careers and creating an environment where students can explore these opportunities.
Enrollment Plan and Timeline
The plan calls for opening the new school in September 2026 with 150 students in grades six through eight. From there, the school would add one grade level each year:
- Year 1 (2026‑2027): 150 students, grades 6‑8
- Year 2 (2027‑2028): 200 students, grades 6‑9
- Year 3 (2028‑2029): 250 students, grades 6‑10
- Year 4 (2029‑2030): 300 students, grades 6‑11
- Year 5 (2030‑2031): 450 students, grades 6‑12
The goal is to reach full enrollment of 450 students in five years.
Community Reactions
The proposal has received mixed reviews. Critics have raised concerns about having students as young as ten share a campus with college‑aged students. These voices argue that the age gap could create challenges in a shared learning environment.
Supporters, on the other hand, point to the potential benefits of early exposure to public‑service careers and the opportunity to build a school that offers real‑world connections.
Next Steps
A second hearing on the matter is scheduled for January 20, 2026. During this session, board members will review feedback, address concerns, and decide whether to move forward with the charter school plan.
Key Takeaways
- Valley Forge Military Academy will close in May 2026.
- A proposal to convert the campus into a public‑service charter school has been presented.
- The new school aims to open in September 2026 with 150 students and expand to 450 students over five years.
- Community reactions are divided, with concerns about age disparities among students.
- A second board hearing is set for January 20, 2026.
The outcome of the upcoming hearing will determine whether the historic campus of Valley Forge Military Academy will continue to serve the community in a new educational capacity.
