Lehigh Valley Academy RCS

As families prepare for a new school year at Lehigh Valley Academy Regional Charter School, one important step is ensuring students are ready to begin the year in dress code. A consistent dress code helps create an environment where students can focus on learning, build a sense of community, and start each day prepared for success.

At LVA, our dress code supports a school culture that values respect, responsibility, and belonging. By creating consistent expectations for student attire, we help minimize distractions and encourage students to focus on what matters most: learning, growing, and contributing to our school community.

Understanding the LVA Dress Code

Dress code requirements vary slightly by grade level, so families are encouraged to review the guidelines specific to their student’s building. Students are expected to arrive at school in dress code each day and remain in dress code while on campus.

Detailed information can be found in:

• Student handbooks for each division
• The LVA website
• The Code of Conduct and student expectations documents

Reviewing these resources before shopping can help families avoid unnecessary purchases and ensure students are ready for the first day of school.

Where to Shop for Dress Code Clothing

To make back-to-school shopping easier, LVA recommends several vendors that carry clothing options that align with school dress code requirements. Please note that while these retailers offer many appropriate options, not every item sold by these vendors meets LVA guidelines.

Recommended vendors include:

• Walmart
• Lands’ End School Uniforms
• French Toast Schoolwear
• Target
• Flynn & O’Hara
• JCPenney
• Burlington
• Old Navy
• The Archive

Families shopping online through Lands’ End or French Toast can search specifically for Lehigh Valley Academy to find recommended uniform selections. Flynn & O’Hara representatives can also assist families in locating approved items.

For families looking for affordable options, local resale opportunities such as The Archive can provide quality uniform pieces at reduced prices.

Show Your LVA Pride

In addition to traditional dress code apparel, students and families can also purchase official LVA spirit wear and approved school apparel through the LVA School Store.

To access the store:

1. Visit the LVA website.
2. Select the School Life tab.
3. Click School Store.

The store includes:

• Dress code-approved apparel
• Physical education clothing
• LVA spirit wear
• Special event and club merchandise

Purchases made through the Sports and Performing Arts collections also help support student programs and activities across the school.

New designs and products are introduced throughout the year, so families are encouraged to stay connected through LVA communications and newsletters for future releases.

Starting the Year Strong

Beginning the school year prepared and in dress code helps students start the year with confidence and allows everyone to focus on learning from day one. We appreciate the partnership of our families in supporting these expectations and helping maintain a positive, inclusive, and student-centered environment.

Questions about dress code requirements can always be directed to your student’s building administration team or found within the appropriate student handbook.

We look forward to welcoming our Jaguars back for another successful school year.

Crossing the graduation stage is a milestone worth celebrating, but it doesn’t have to be the end of your family’s connection to Lehigh Valley Academy.

As our graduates begin exciting new chapters—whether attending college, entering the workforce, serving in the military, or pursuing other opportunities—we invite them and their families to stay connected with the LVA community.

Our LVA Alumni Resources page is designed to help graduates continue their connection with the school. There, alumni can explore opportunities to visit campus, learn about future class reunions, update their contact information, share feedback through a Niche review, and discover additional resources created just for them.

Looking to reconnect with classmates? We also encourage graduates to join our private Lehigh Valley Academy Alumni Facebook group. It’s a place to stay in touch with fellow alumni, hear about upcoming alumni events, celebrate milestones, and continue building the connections that began at LVA.

Whether you graduated this year or many years ago, you’ll always be an important part of the LVA community. We look forward to staying connected and celebrating all that our alumni accomplish in the years ahead.

Ready to stay connected? Visit our Alumni Resources page through the Alumni portal on LVA’s main website to explore alumni resources, or use the button below for direct access. Be sure to join our private Lehigh Valley Academy Alumni Facebook group to reconnect with classmates and stay up to date on alumni news and events.

The experiences of our students and families are what make Lehigh Valley Academy such a special place. We are always grateful when members of our community take the time to share honest feedback, and two recent Niche reviews from a current parent and a graduating senior highlight many of the qualities that define the LVA experience.

One parent shared, “We are pretty happy with LVA,” noting that “things are looking up” as the school continues to grow. They highlighted the expansion of opportunities for students, sharing that “the school has been supportive in expanding more clubs like MathCounts and Strategic Gaming Club,” while also recognizing the growth of our athletics and performing arts programs.

The parent also praised the classroom experience, writing that “the teachers are passionate about their jobs and are caring toward their students,” and that “their classes are more rigorous than most schools in the area.” They concluded by sharing that “LVA continues to grow as a respected IB school” and “prepare[s] the students well for college.”

A graduating senior echoed many of those same themes, describing LVA as providing “a very strong academic environment, especially through its IB program,” that “challenges students to think critically and prepare for college.” They also shared that “the teachers are supportive and genuinely want students to succeed,” and appreciated that “there are opportunities to get involved in clubs, sports, and other activities.”

Beyond academics, the senior recognized LVA as “an inclusive place,” and concluded that “Overall, LVA is a good school for students who are motivated and willing to work hard. It offers a good quality education and prepares students for their future.”

While every student’s journey is unique, it’s encouraging to see both a parent and a graduating senior recognize many of the same strengths—dedicated teachers, rigorous academics, meaningful extracurricular opportunities, and an educational experience that prepares students for what comes next.

Thank you to every student, parent, and family member who takes the time to share their experiences.

Your voices help celebrate our community while helping us continue to grow and strengthen the experience we provide for every LVA student.

Are you a current LVA family?

We’d love to hear about your experience!

If you haven’t already, consider visiting our Niche profile to share your thoughts. Your feedback helps prospective families learn more about our school while helping us continue to grow as a community.

When the final bell rings and students head off to enjoy summer break, the halls of Lehigh Valley Academy may become quieter—but they certainly do not become empty.

While classrooms sit without students for a few short months, teams across the building are already hard at work preparing for another successful school year. From maintenance projects and technology updates to curriculum planning and classroom preparation, summer at LVA is anything but a vacation for the campus itself.

Take a look behind the scenes at what happens when the students head home.

Giving the Building a Fresh Start

Summer provides an opportunity to reset many of our learning spaces. Throughout the building, our facilities and custodial teams work diligently to ensure that every classroom, hallway, and common area is ready to welcome students back in the fall.

Floors are stripped and waxed, carpets are cleaned, furniture is moved and reorganized, and classrooms receive a thorough top-to-bottom cleaning. Walls receive fresh paint where needed, shared spaces are refreshed, and outdoor areas, playgrounds, and gathering spaces are prepared for another year of learning and play. This summer also included refreshing our campus parking lots with newly painted parking lines, directional markings, and other pavement striping to improve organization, traffic flow, and safety throughout campus.

These behind-the-scenes efforts help create the safe, welcoming environment that students and families experience from the very first day they arrive on campus.

Projects That Keep LVA Moving Forward

Summer also provides an opportunity to tackle projects and improvements that are more difficult to complete during the busy school year.

Departments organize supplies and materials, learning spaces receive updates, and maintenance projects help ensure that students return to an environment that is both functional and inspiring. From small enhancements to larger campus initiatives, every project is completed with students in mind.

One of the most exciting developments taking place this summer is the continued progress of LVA’s new Performing Arts Building, made possible through a collaboration with Alvin H. Butz, Inc. Construction continues to move forward as the future home for many of LVA’s music, theater, and performing arts programs takes shape.

Inside, activity is just as exciting as key elements begin to take shape, bringing the vision for the new facility to life. The project remains on track to open for the 2026–2027 school year and will provide students with a dedicated space to learn, rehearse, perform, and showcase their talents for years to come.

Planning for the Year Ahead

Although summer offers a chance to recharge, many educators use this time to look ahead.

Faculty and staff participate in professional development opportunities, collaborate on curriculum enhancements, and develop new lessons, projects, and experiences for students. Teams also begin planning field trips, performances, school traditions, and special events that will help shape the upcoming year.

This important work ensures that classrooms continue to evolve and that students return to engaging, meaningful learning experiences that reflect LVA’s commitment to innovation and academic excellence.

Welcoming New Members of the LVA Family

Summer is also a season of new beginnings.

As new faculty and staff members join our community, orientation and training opportunities help them become familiar with LVA’s culture, programs, and mission. Departments work together to ensure that every new team member feels supported and prepared before students arrive.

Families will also begin seeing new faces featured throughout our website, directories, and communications as we officially welcome them to the Jaguar community.

Preparing for Students’ Return

As August approaches, preparations begin to shift toward opening day.

Classroom materials are organized, schedules are finalized, student information is prepared, and bulletin boards begin to appear throughout the building. Staff members coordinate orientations, welcome events, and countless behind-the-scenes details to ensure a smooth transition back to school.

Every name tag printed, every classroom arranged, and every supply prepared contributes to helping students feel welcomed, supported, and ready for success.

The Work Behind the Welcome

Although the hallways may seem quiet during the summer months, LVA remains hard at work.

From deep cleaning classrooms and planning curriculum to welcoming new staff members and watching the future Performing Arts Building continue to rise, every effort made during the summer helps lay the foundation for another incredible school year.

As classrooms are prepared and new spaces continue to take shape, excitement for the 2026–2027 school year is already beginning to grow.

Because even when students are away, the heart of Lehigh Valley Academy never stops beating.

We look forward to welcoming our Jaguars back soon for another year of learning, growth, creativity, and community.

As summer continues and families prepare to celebrate the Fourth of July, Independence Day provides an opportunity to enjoy time together while also reflecting on an important moment in our nation’s history.

On July 4, 1776, the Declaration of Independence was formally adopted, marking the birth of the United States as an independent nation. The document outlined the colonies’ desire for freedom and self-government and remains one of the most significant pieces of American history.

Today, many families celebrate with parades, fireworks, picnics, community events, and gatherings with friends and loved ones. While these traditions have evolved over generations, the holiday continues to remind us of the values of freedom, opportunity, and civic responsibility.

Summer offers countless opportunities for learning beyond the classroom. As families celebrate this holiday weekend, consider exploring some of these activities together:

• Visit a local historical site or museum.
• Read books about American history or the founding of our country.
• Watch a documentary or educational program about Independence Day.
• Discuss family traditions and what freedom means to each member of your family.
• Attend a community parade or fireworks celebration.

At Lehigh Valley Academy, we believe that learning extends far beyond the school year and the classroom walls. Experiences, conversations, travel, and family traditions all contribute to a student’s growth and understanding of the world around them.

As we celebrate Independence Day, we wish all of our LVA families a safe, enjoyable holiday weekend filled with meaningful moments, lasting memories, and opportunities to continue learning together.

Happy Fourth of July from all of us at LVA! 🇺🇸

Summer vacation offers students a well-deserved break from homework, tests, and busy school schedules, but learning doesn’t have to pause when the final bell rings. In fact, some of the most meaningful learning experiences happen outside the classroom through exploration, creativity, and everyday adventures.

Whether your family is traveling, staying close to home, or simply enjoying a slower pace, there are countless ways to keep young minds engaged all summer long.

Make Reading Part of the Daily Routine

Reading during the summer helps students maintain important literacy skills while encouraging imagination and curiosity.

• Visit your local library and participate in summer reading programs.
• Allow children to choose books based on their own interests, whether that means mysteries, sports stories, graphic novels, or fantasy adventures.
• Listen to audiobooks during road trips, while drawing, or during quiet time at home.
• Create a family reading challenge or set small goals to celebrate together.

When reading feels enjoyable rather than assigned, students often discover new interests and develop lifelong reading habits.

Turn Everyday Activities Into Learning Opportunities

Learning can happen almost anywhere when children are encouraged to ask questions and explore the world around them.

• Take neighborhood walks and observe plants, insects, or weather changes.
• Visit museums, parks, zoos, historical sites, or cultural attractions.
• Cook recipes together and learn about different countries and traditions.
• Play games that involve strategy, problem-solving, or vocabulary skills.

Simple experiences often spark curiosity and help children make meaningful connections to the world around them.

Encourage Creativity and Hands-On Projects

Summer provides extra time for building, creating, and experimenting.

Students can:

• Design and build with LEGO bricks or recycled materials.
• Create their own board game or card game.
• Conduct simple science experiments at home.
• Plant a garden or grow vegetables and observe the process.
• Make videos, take photographs, or document summer adventures through creative projects.

Hands-on activities strengthen problem-solving skills while allowing children to express themselves in new ways.

Use Technology With Purpose

Screen time can become a valuable learning tool when used intentionally.

Educational apps and programs can help students practice skills, learn new languages, explore coding, or develop creative interests. Children can also watch educational videos, create digital artwork, produce short videos, or research topics that genuinely interest them.

The goal is not to eliminate technology, but to encourage meaningful and balanced use.

Capture Summer Memories

Keeping a journal, sketchbook, or scrapbook allows children to reflect on their experiences while practicing writing and observation skills.

Consider prompts such as:

• What was the best part of your day?
• If you could invent something, what would it be?
• What is one new thing you learned this week?
• What adventure would you like to have before summer ends?

Combining writing, drawing, photography, and creativity helps students preserve memories while building important communication skills.

Enjoy the Journey

Summer learning does not need to look like school. Small moments of curiosity, creativity, and exploration can have a lasting impact.

Whether students are reading under a tree, building a project at home, exploring a local park, or simply asking questions about the world around them, every experience can become an opportunity to learn.

We hope your summer is filled with discovery, adventure, and plenty of fun. We look forward to hearing about all of your experiences when the new school year begins.

As the final dismissal bell rings and summer officially begins, one special tradition brings the school year to a close at Lehigh Valley Academy.

For the past 24 years, LVA faculty and staff have gathered around the sidewalks, front lawn, and exits on the last day of school to cheer, wave, and celebrate students as they head off for summer break. What may seem like a simple gesture has become one of the school’s most meaningful traditions.

Students leave the building to applause, smiles, high-fives, and countless waves from the teachers, administrators, and staff members who have supported them throughout the year. For many students, it is a moment filled with excitement for summer. For staff, it is an opportunity to reflect on the growth, accomplishments, and memories shared throughout the school year.

Over the years, generations of Jaguars have experienced this final send-off. While classes, classrooms, and even campuses may change, the tradition itself remains a constant reminder of the strong connections that make the LVA community so special.

The annual farewell serves as more than just a goodbye. It is a celebration of everything students have accomplished during the school year—from academic achievements and artistic performances to athletic successes, friendships, and personal growth.

As another school year comes to a close, the LVA community is grateful for the many memories created throughout the year and the opportunity to celebrate one final time before summer begins.

Thank you to our students, families, faculty, and staff for making this school year unforgettable.

Have a wonderful summer, Jaguars. We look forward to welcoming you back in the fall for another incredible year.

As another school year comes to a close at Lehigh Valley Academy Regional Charter School, it is important to recognize the many people who help make the LVA experience possible each and every day.

While students are often the center of school celebrations and accomplishments, behind every successful school day is an entire community of adults working together to support, guide, encourage, and care for students across grades K–12.

From classrooms and cafeterias to hallways, buses, offices, athletic spaces, and performances, countless individuals help create the environment that allows students to learn, grow, and succeed.

To Our Teachers

Thank you for the time, energy, creativity, and patience you pour into your classrooms every day.

Thank you for encouraging curiosity, supporting students through challenges, celebrating accomplishments, and helping students discover confidence in themselves as learners. Your work often extends far beyond lesson plans and grading, and the impact you make can last a lifetime.

Whether leading inquiry projects, preparing students for performances, supporting IB learning, or simply being a trusted adult students can turn to, your dedication continues to shape the LVA experience in meaningful ways.

To Our Instructional Aides and Support Staff

Thank you for the countless ways you support students behind the scenes and throughout the school day.

Your flexibility, compassion, encouragement, and willingness to step in wherever needed help create learning environments where students feel supported, seen, and successful. The work you do each day plays an important role in helping classrooms and school communities thrive.

To Our Custodial and Operations Teams

Thank you for the work you do before the school day begins, long after it ends, and during every moment in between.

From preparing classrooms and event spaces to maintaining campus safety and supporting daily operations, your efforts help ensure that students and staff have safe, welcoming, and functional spaces to learn and grow.

Many of the moments families enjoy throughout the school year — concerts, performances, athletics, showcases, and community events — would not be possible without the planning, setup, coordination, and support provided by operations and facilities staff.

To Our Transportation Teams

Thank you for safely transporting students to and from school each day and for helping students begin and end their day with care and consistency.

For many students, bus drivers and transportation staff are among the first and last adults they see each school day. Your patience, reliability, and commitment help students arrive safely and ready to learn.

To Our Cafeteria Staff

Thank you for the care and effort you put into serving students each day.

School meals do far more than provide food — they help students stay focused, energized, and ready to learn. Through the support of LVA’s meal program and daily breakfast and lunch offerings, countless students and families benefit from one less thing to worry about during busy school days.

Your kindness and consistency help create a welcoming part of students’ daily routines.

To Our Counselors and Student Support Teams

Thank you for supporting students not only academically, but emotionally and personally as well.

Whether helping students navigate challenges, preparing for future opportunities, supporting mental wellness, or simply offering encouragement during difficult moments, your presence makes a meaningful difference in the lives of students and families.

The relationships and trust you build help students feel supported both inside and outside the classroom.

A Community Effort

One of the things that makes LVA special is the number of people who come together every day to support students in ways both big and small.

Many of these contributions happen quietly and behind the scenes, but they are deeply appreciated by the students, families, and colleagues who benefit from them every day.

As the 2025–2026 school year comes to a close, we extend our sincere gratitude to all of the adults who help make LVA possible. Thank you for your hard work, dedication, compassion, and commitment to the students and families of Jaguar Nation.

At Lehigh Valley Academy Regional Charter School, leadership goes beyond the classroom. Through LVA’s High School Student Ambassador Program, students have the opportunity to take an active role in welcoming, mentoring, and supporting new Jaguars as they transition into the school community.

Rooted in the values of the International Baccalaureate (IB) Learner Profile, the Student Ambassador Program is a student-led initiative designed to help new students feel connected, confident, and engaged from day one.

Building Community Through Student Leadership

The program focuses on three core goals:

• Assisting new students as they get to know LVA
• Sharing experiences and insights from the perspective of current students
• Building a strong sense of community across grade levels

By stepping into leadership roles, Student Ambassadors strengthen important IB Learner Profile traits including being Communicators, Caring, Open-Minded, Principled, and Risk-Takers — all while making a meaningful impact on the student experience at LVA.

Ambassador Roles & Responsibilities

Student Ambassadors serve in a variety of ways throughout the school year, helping new students navigate both academics and student life.

School Guides

Ambassadors provide tours for prospective and incoming students, helping them become familiar with classrooms, routines, and daily life at LVA from a student perspective.

Mentors

Student mentors offer encouragement, guidance, and peer support as new students adjust to a new school environment and build connections within the community.

Resource Assistants

Ambassadors help students navigate schedules, locker assignments, and school resources while modeling organization, problem-solving, and responsibility.

Event Promoters

Student leaders encourage involvement in clubs, events, athletics, performances, and school activities, helping students become more engaged in the larger LVA community.

Leadership in Action

The Student Ambassador Program reflects LVA’s commitment to developing students who are not only academically prepared, but also compassionate leaders and engaged global citizens. It provides students with real-world opportunities to practice communication, collaboration, service, and leadership through the lens of the IB framework.

At LVA, leadership is not simply taught — it is lived out through programs like Student Ambassadors, where students help shape a welcoming and supportive culture for future Jaguars.

Interested in Becoming a Student Ambassador?

Applications for the 2026–27 school year are now open for current high school students interested in serving as Student Ambassadors.

Students can learn more or request an application by visiting:

• Mrs. Musselman (Room 2327)
• Mrs. Groller or Ms. Vellani (Guidance Suite)

Applications and recommendation forms are due by June 2, 2026.