GENERAL INFORMATION
A: Valley Forge Public Service Academy Charter School (VFPSA) is a public charter school committed to preparing students in grades 6–12 for leadership roles in public service sectors, including law enforcement, firefighting, emergency response, and military service. Our mission is to provide a rigorous, service-oriented education that emphasizes character, discipline, academic excellence and career readiness.
A: VFPSA will be located on the Valley Forge Military Academy Foundation campus at 1001 Eagle Road, Wayne, PA 19087. The campus includes dining facilities, auditorium, a gym, weight room, swimming pool and athletic fields and is within walking distance to the R-5 SEPTA train and downtown Wayne.
A: VFPSA is scheduled to open in September 2026, pending final charter approval by the Radnor School District.
ADMISSIONS AND ENROLLMENT
A: Any student residing in Pennsylvania is eligible to apply. Admission is open and tuition-free. In its first year, VFPSA will enroll up to 150 6th, 7th and 8th graders. If applications exceed available seats, enrollment will be determined by a lottery.
A: Yes. Application timelines and deadlines are posted annually on our website. Early application is encouraged due to high interest and limited seats.
A: Applications will be available online and in print. Families can apply through our website or request an application packet by mail. Assistance is available for families needing support during the application process.
Academic program
A: VFPSA follows Pennsylvania State Standards and incorporates a public service and leadership focus into core subjects. Our curriculum includes English Language Arts, Math, Science, Social Studies, and specialized coursework in public safety, civic service, and Industry Based Credentials.
A: No. While VFPSA incorporates civic service and public safety leadership training, it is a public charter school, not a military school. Participation in uniformed programs is rooted in leadership development and service learning.
A: Yes. Students will have the opportunity to earn certifications aligned with first responder careers, including CPR, Emergency Medical Responder (EMR), fire safety, and more.
STUDENT LIFE
A: Yes. VFPSA will require students to wear uniforms as a symbol of pride, professionalism, and unity. Uniform policies will be shared with families upon enrollment.
A: Yes. Students can participate in athletics, student government, community service clubs, public speaking, leadership seminars and more all aligned with our public service mission.
A: Students who reside within 10 miles of VFPSA’s location and attend a school district that provides transportation to charter schools are eligible for free transportation per Pennsylvania law. VFPSA will work with districts to coordinate services. For students not eligible, we will assist families in exploring alternative solutions.
SUPPORT SERVICES
A: Absolutely. VFPSA complies with all federal and state laws regarding special education and will provide individualized support to meet each student's needs.
A: VFPSA offers comprehensive support for English Language Learners, including instructional accommodations and family engagement services.
A: Our school provides counseling services, mentorship programs, and a strong focus on social-emotional learning (SEL) to ensure the well-being and personal growth of all students.
CHARTER SCHOOL BASICS
A: A charter school is a public, independently operated school authorized by the state. Charter schools are tuition-free, open to all students, and operate with increased flexibility in exchange for higher accountability.
A: VFPSA is publicly funded based on student enrollment. It does not charge tuition and is accountable to the Pennsylvania Department of Education and its authorizer for financial, academic, and operational performance.
A: VFPSA is governed by an independent Board of Trustees composed of community stakeholders, including at least one parent of a student attending VFPSA.