Lehigh Valley Academy RCS

By now, the school year is well underway, and our newest faculty and staff members have had the opportunity to experience a little of what makes Lehigh Valley Academy such a special place to learn, work, and grow.

But whether you joined LVA this year or have been part of our community for years, there is always more to discover about the school we call home. From our beginnings in 2002 to the nearly 2,000 students we serve today, LVA has a story that continues to grow — and every member of our community is part of it.

A Look Back at Where We Started

Lehigh Valley Academy opened its doors in 2002 with just 175 students. More than two decades later, our school community has grown to nearly 2,000 students spanning Kindergarten through Grade 12.

A lot has changed along the way, including our campus, facilities, programs, and visual identity. What has remained at the heart of LVA, however, is our commitment to providing meaningful learning experiences and opportunities for students to grow as learners and as individuals.

One LVA, Kindergarten Through Grade 12

One of the things that makes LVA unique is the opportunity to be part of a school community that follows students throughout their entire K–12 educational journey.

Our K–5, Middle School, and High School programmes are connected as one LVA community. Students have the opportunity to build relationships, explore their interests, take on new challenges, and create lasting memories here over many years.

That full-circle experience can be especially meaningful during traditions like our annual Graduate Walk, when graduating seniors make their way through LVA one more time while younger Jaguars and staff celebrate their accomplishments.

It is a reminder that while our students may begin their journey as our youngest Jaguars, they are surrounded by a community that is invested in seeing them all the way to graduation.

An IB World School

LVA is proud to be an International Baccalaureate World School, offering an IB educational experience across our K–12 community.

Through inquiry, exploration, collaboration, and opportunities to connect learning to the world around them, our students are encouraged to think critically, remain curious, and become lifelong learners.

The IB Learner Profile also helps shape the qualities we hope to see in our Jaguars as they move through LVA — not only as students, but as thoughtful, knowledgeable, and engaged members of their communities.

There’s More to LVA Than the Classroom

Some of the most memorable parts of the LVA experience happen outside of a traditional classroom.

Throughout the year, our Jaguars can be found competing in athletics, performing on stage, participating in clubs and organizations, exploring STEM opportunities, developing leadership skills, and finding ways to serve their school and surrounding communities.

Service is an important part of our culture, with students involved in organizations such as NHS and NJHS, as well as countless clubs, initiatives, and schoolwide efforts that give them opportunities to make a difference.

Our focus on building a positive school culture has even received national recognition, with LVA being named a CharacterStrong Spotlight School.

The Jaguar Spirit Is Everywhere

If you’ve spent any time at LVA, you’ve probably heard it by now:

Go Jags!

The Jaguar represents our entire school community — from our youngest Kindergarten students to our graduating seniors, and everyone who helps make LVA what it is.

School spirit can look different throughout the year, whether it’s cheering from the stands, celebrating student accomplishments, supporting a performance, participating in a spirit day, or simply seeing our Jaguars show up for one another.

That sense of community is one of the things that makes LVA more than just a school.

Your Part in the LVA Story

Every person who becomes part of LVA contributes something to the story of our school.

The relationships we build with students and colleagues, the experiences we create, the traditions we continue, and the new ideas we bring forward all help shape what LVA will become in the years ahead.

As the school year continues, we hope you’ll take opportunities to get involved, explore different parts of our community, and experience the many things that make LVA unique.

Stay Connected With LVA

There’s always something happening across the LVA community, and following along is one of the easiest ways to see the many ways our Jaguars are learning, growing, competing, performing, and making an impact.

Follow LVA on social media for student accomplishments, school events, athletics, performances, important announcements, behind-the-scenes moments, and more.

Our LVA Linktree also brings many of our most-used resources together in one place, including our social media channels, latest blog stories, School Store, and other important links.

Stay connected. Stay informed. Show your Jaguar pride.

There is a lot that makes LVA special — and there is always more to come. We’re glad you’re here to be part of it.

The middle years are a time of tremendous growth. Students are becoming more independent, discovering their interests, developing their voices, and beginning to understand how they learn best. At Lehigh Valley Academy, we see these years as an important opportunity to help students grow not only as learners, but as confident, curious, and engaged members of their community.

Through the International Baccalaureate (IB) Middle Years Programme (MYP), students in Grades 6–10 experience a learning environment designed to challenge them, encourage them to ask questions, and help them make meaningful connections between what they learn in the classroom and the world around them.

Learning Beyond the Classroom

The MYP encourages students to look beyond memorizing information and consider how their learning connects to real-world experiences. Through inquiry, reflection, creativity, hands-on projects, and interdisciplinary learning, students are encouraged to explore ideas from different perspectives and develop a deeper understanding of the subjects they study.

Just as importantly, students learn how to learn — building habits and strategies that can support them throughout their academic journey and beyond.

Building Confident, Independent Thinkers

The middle years are when students begin taking greater ownership of their learning. At LVA, students have opportunities to ask questions, collaborate with their peers, communicate their ideas, solve problems, and reflect on their experiences.

These experiences help students become more comfortable navigating challenges and exploring new ideas while developing the independence they will need as they progress through high school.

Turning Learning Into Action

At LVA, learning is not limited to what happens inside the classroom. Students are encouraged to consider how their knowledge, skills, and ideas can be used to make a difference.

Through service, leadership opportunities, creative projects, and meaningful learning experiences, students can begin to see themselves as individuals who have the ability to contribute to their school and broader communities.

A Foundation for What Comes Next

The Middle Years Programme also helps prepare students for the opportunities that await them in Grades 11 and 12, including LVA’s IB Diploma and Career-related Programmes.

By developing strong learning habits, curiosity, collaboration skills, reflection, and a sense of purpose, students enter the next stage of their education with a foundation that extends beyond academic preparation.

Why These Years Matter

The middle years are about more than preparing students for the next grade level. They are about helping young people discover their strengths, develop confidence, ask meaningful questions, and begin finding their place in the world.

At LVA, the Middle Years Programme gives students the opportunity to explore, create, collaborate, reflect, and grow — while preparing them for the academic and personal experiences that lie ahead.

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Help Us Spread the Word!

Do you know a family who is exploring school options for their child?

Share this blog with friends, family members, neighbors, or coworkers who may be interested in learning more about the LVA experience. An Admissions Information Session is a great opportunity for prospective families to learn more about our programs, ask questions, and discover what makes LVA unique.

Sometimes, the best way for a family to discover LVA is through someone who already knows our community. Your voice can help introduce another family to the possibilities at LVA.

Interested in learning more? Visit lvacademy.org/admissions to explore our admissions information and stay connected for details about upcoming Admissions Information Sessions.

Session dates and registration information for the 2027-2028 School Year will be shared as they become available.

At Lehigh Valley Academy, education is about more than academic achievement. Through the International Baccalaureate (IB), students are encouraged to become thoughtful, capable, and compassionate learners who can make sense of the world—and make a positive difference within it.

Serving students from Kindergarten through their Senior Year, the IB approach supports the whole child. Along with building knowledge and strong academic skills, students develop confidence, communication, resilience, curiosity, and a sense of responsibility to others.

Learning with Purpose

IB classrooms invite students to do more than find the “right” answer. They are encouraged to ask meaningful questions, investigate ideas, consider different perspectives, and reflect on their own growth.

Throughout their learning, students strengthen the qualities of the IB Learner Profile, becoming:

• Inquirers who are eager to explore and discover
• Knowledgeable thinkers who make connections across learning
• Communicators who share ideas and listen to others
• Principled individuals who act with honesty and respect
• Caring community members who value different perspectives
• Open-minded learners who are ready to grow through new experiences
• Reflective students who recognize their strengths and next steps

An IB Journey for Every Stage of Learning

LVA is proud to offer the full IB continuum, giving students a connected learning experience from their earliest school years through graduation.

Primary Years Programme (PYP)
For our youngest Jaguars, the PYP creates a strong foundation through inquiry, exploration, and hands-on learning across subject areas.

Middle Years Programme (MYP)
The MYP helps students in grades 6–10 connect what they learn in the classroom to the world beyond it. Through interdisciplinary learning and meaningful projects, students see how their subjects work together.

Diploma Programme (DP)
During their final two years of high school, DP students take on rigorous coursework while developing research, reflection, and service skills through the Extended Essay, Theory of Knowledge, and Creativity, Activity, Service.

Career-related Programme (CP)
The CP combines IB academic learning with career-focused study, helping students build practical skills and prepare for college, further training, or the workforce.

Growth Beyond a Grade

In an IB education, assessment is designed to support learning—not simply measure it. Students are evaluated using clear learning goals rather than being compared to one another. Through ongoing feedback, reflection, and opportunities to improve, learners gain a deeper understanding of their progress and how to keep moving forward.

At LVA, the IB continuum gives students the opportunity to grow as scholars, leaders, collaborators, and global citizens—all within a close-knit school community.

Discover a world-class education close to home.

 Learn more about LVA and our IB programmes at lvacademy.org.

At LVA, learning is about so much more than memorizing facts—it is about helping students grow into curious, confident, and caring individuals who are ready to engage with the world around them!

Through the International Baccalaureate Primary Years Programme (PYP), our young Jaguars build the skills and mindset to become lifelong learners.

Here are 10 reasons why the PYP makes a meaningful difference at LVA:

1. It builds curiosity. Students are encouraged to wonder, ask questions, and seek out new discoveries.
2. It grows confidence. Learners develop trust in their ideas, abilities, and voice.
3. It encourages caring for others. Students learn the importance of compassion, respect, and contributing to their community.
4. It inspires thoughtful questions. Learning begins with meaningful inquiry that helps students explore topics more deeply.
5. It welcomes different perspectives. Young Jaguars consider the experiences, cultures, and viewpoints of others.
6. It creates meaningful connections. Students connect their learning across subjects, experiences, and the world around them.
7. It strengthens collaboration and communication. Through discussion, teamwork, and sharing ideas, students learn alongside one another.
8. It develops reflection and lifelong-learning skills. Learners pause to think about their growth, celebrate progress, and identify next steps.
9. It builds global-mindedness. Students recognize that they are part of a larger, interconnected world and can think creatively about real-world issues.
10. It empowers students to take action. With curiosity, compassion, and confidence, students learn how to turn questions into discoveries—and discoveries into meaningful impact.

That is the PYP in action at LVA: developing knowledgeable, open-minded, and responsible learners who are ready to make their mark!

What better way to begin the middle school journey than with three days of learning, teamwork, and adventure?

Last week, our 6th Grade Jaguars traded the traditional classroom for the great outdoors as they headed to Camp Canadensis for an unforgettable kickoff to their Middle Years Programme (MYP) experience.

Each year, this LVA tradition gives our newest middle school students an opportunity to step outside of their comfort zones, build connections with their classmates, and experience learning in an entirely new environment.

Throughout their three-day adventure, students participated in team-building challenges, STEAM activities, athletics, first aid instruction, and hands-on lessons in math, science, writing, and art. Whether they were solving problems together, trying something new, or exploring the outdoors, our Jaguars had plenty of opportunities to put their classroom skills into action.

IB Learners in Action

Camp Canadensis is about more than simply getting away from the classroom. It gives students an early opportunity to experience what it means to be an IB Learner.

Throughout the trip, our sixth graders were encouraged to ask questions, think creatively, take positive risks, communicate with one another, and reflect on their experiences. Each new activity challenged them to practice collaboration, problem-solving, independence, and perseverance—skills that will continue to support them throughout their MYP journey.

Our students were also guided and supported by LVA junior and senior counselors, giving our upperclassmen the opportunity to serve as mentors and leaders for the newest members of our Middle School community.

Building More Than Skills

Between lessons and challenges, there was plenty of time for the moments that make camp memorable. Students enjoyed outdoor activities, games, time with friends, and opportunities to get to know their classmates outside of their usual school-day routines.

By the time our Jaguars returned to LVA, they brought home more than memories. They returned with new friendships, greater confidence, stronger connections, and a shared experience to carry with them throughout the school year.

Making the Experience Possible

This year’s MYP Camp experience was also supported by the LVA Education Foundation, which generously presented a $1,000 donation to support student scholarships for MYP Camp.

The contribution was made possible through the continued support of our LVA community. Every Foundation event attended, fundraiser supported, and contribution made throughout the year helps create opportunities that directly benefit our students.

Support like this helps ensure that more students have the opportunity to participate in experiences like Camp Canadensis—where learning extends beyond the classroom and students are encouraged to explore, connect, grow, and thrive.

We extend a heartfelt thank you to the LVA Education Foundation and everyone in our community who helped make this donation possible!

The Beginning of Their MYP Journey

Camp Canadensis may only last three days, but it marks an important first step in our sixth graders’ MYP experience.

As our Jaguars settle into their first year of Middle School, they can carry forward the friendships they strengthened, challenges they overcame, and lessons they learned during their time at camp.

Welcome back, Jaguars! We hope you had an incredible adventure! 

Be sure to keep an eye out in this year’s Middle School Yearbook for even more photos and memories from Camp Canadensis!

What a wonderful first full week of the 2026–27 school year at Lehigh Valley Academy!

After a successful Soft Start, it has been exciting to see all of our Jaguars back in the building—settling into new routines, reconnecting with friends and teachers, exploring new classrooms, and beginning another year of learning and growth.

This week was especially meaningful for our newest students. From kindergarteners experiencing their first days of school to students beginning new chapters in middle school and high school, LVA has been filled with fresh starts, big transitions, and plenty of Jaguar pride.

Across K–12, our classrooms, hallways, and shared spaces are once again alive with curiosity, collaboration, and community. We are so grateful to our students, families, faculty, and staff for helping make the start of the school year such a positive one.

With our K–5 Back-to-School Nights already underway, we look forward to welcoming our middle and high school families in the weeks ahead, celebrating fall activities, and making even more memories throughout LVA’s 25th year.

Here’s to a strong start and an even brighter year ahead. Welcome back, Jaguars!

As we begin the 2026–27 school year, Lehigh Valley Academy is excited to welcome back our Soft Start schedule for its second year!

Introduced last year, the Soft Start gives students across grade levels an opportunity to ease back into the school routine, become familiar with new classrooms and schedules, reconnect with teachers, and navigate their learning spaces before all grade levels are together.

Our 2026–27 Soft Start Schedule

This year, students will begin according to the following schedule:

• Tuesday, August 18: First day for Grades 1–5, 6, 9, and 11
• Wednesday, August 19: First day for Grades 7, 8, 10, and 12
• Thursday, August 20: First day for Kindergarten

By Thursday, all of our Jaguars will officially be back on campus and ready for another year of learning, growth, and new experiences!

A Confident Start for Our 6th Graders

For our 6th graders, Soft Start provides an especially valuable introduction to middle school.

As the first middle school grade to return, students have additional space and time to become comfortable with a new environment and new routines. They can locate their classrooms, practice opening and using their lockers, learn which hallways and staircases to use, and become familiar with their daily schedules without the typical movement of the entire middle school student body.

This quieter introduction helps students build confidence and independence as they make the transition into middle school.

Welcoming Our 9th Graders to High School

Beginning high school is another major transition, which makes Soft Start particularly beneficial for our 9th-grade students.

With fewer grade levels in the building on their first day, freshmen have an opportunity to familiarize themselves with the high school layout, meet their teachers, locate classrooms, navigate transitions between classes, and become comfortable with their lockers and schedules.

Having this time to learn the routines of high school helps our newest high school students begin the year feeling more prepared before Grades 10 and 12 join them on Wednesday.

Preparing 11th Graders for the IB Journey Ahead

Soft Start also provides an important transition for our 11th graders as they begin the next stage of their International Baccalaureate education.

Junior year marks the beginning of the rigorous two-year Diploma Programme (DP) or Career-related Programme (CP) experience. Students entering these pathways will encounter new courses, expectations, schedules, and responsibilities as they work toward their individual academic and career goals.

The additional time provided through Soft Start allows 11th graders to settle into their schedules, meet their teachers, and become familiar with the expectations of their chosen IB pathway before the full high school student body returns.

Giving Elementary Students Time to Settle In

Our Grades 1–5 students also benefit from beginning the year through Soft Start.

Moving into a new grade often means a new teacher, classroom, hallway, or even floor of the building. Beginning together on Tuesday gives elementary students time to reconnect with their school community, learn new classroom routines, and become comfortable in their new spaces.

It also gives our returning elementary Jaguars time to settle in before we welcome our youngest students later in the week.

A Special First Day for Kindergarten

On Thursday, August 20, we will officially welcome our newest Jaguars as our kindergarten students celebrate their first day of school!

Giving kindergarten its own start allows our youngest learners to receive a special welcome as they begin an exciting new chapter at LVA. From meeting teachers and classmates to discovering their classrooms and learning new routines, their first day is all about becoming comfortable and excited about school.

Ready for Another Great Year

After a successful introduction last school year, Soft Start returns for its second year as part of LVA’s back-to-school experience. By gradually welcoming students throughout the first few days, we can provide additional time and space for students navigating some of the biggest transitions in their K–12 journey.

Whether they are moving into a new elementary classroom, beginning middle or high school, starting their DP or CP journey, or walking through our doors for their very first day of kindergarten, we want every Jaguar to begin the year feeling welcomed, prepared, and ready to learn.

Welcome to the 2026–27 school year, Jaguars! We can’t wait to see what this year brings.

Picture Day Reminder!

As we kick off the new school year, don’t forget that Yearbook & Student ID Picture Days are also happening during the first week of school!

• Thursday, August 20: Middle & High School students, Grades 6–12
• Friday, August 21: Elementary students, Grades K–5

All students are required to follow LVA dress code guidelines for their school pictures. These photos will be used for student identification and yearbook purposes, so please plan accordingly. Get those Jaguar smiles ready!

The safety of our students, families, and staff is our highest priority. As we prepare for the new school year, please take a few moments to review our parking lot procedures to help ensure a smooth and safe arrival and dismissal for everyone on campus.

Morning Parent Drop-Off

Parent drop-off takes place from 7:40–8:00 AM.

• Students arriving after 8:00 AM must be signed in at the K–5 Front Office by a parent or guardian.
• During the first few weeks of school, we may extend the drop-off window slightly to help families establish their morning routines.

Traffic Flow

To keep traffic moving safely and efficiently:

• Enter campus through Entrance A.
• Follow the designated traffic pattern (blue arrows on the campus map) and directions from staff members.
• Drop students off only at the K–5 entrance and along the side of the gym.
• If exiting onto Schoenersville Road (south), remain in the right lane. Lane changes are not permitted while in the drop-off or pick-up line.
• If traffic backs up at the Schoenersville Road exit, staff will direct vehicles to continue left and exit via Avenue C.
• Vehicles already in the left lane will exit through Entrance A onto Avenue C.

Please refer to the campus traffic map for the complete vehicle route.

Afternoon Pick-Up & Parking Lot Safety

To ensure dismissal runs safely and efficiently, please follow these additional guidelines:

• Do not arrive before 3:00 PM. This helps keep campus access clear for emergency vehicles, deliveries, and families needing early student pick-up.
• If you arrive early, please line up behind the cones at the gym corner (see the traffic map). Vehicles will be directed forward to the K–5 building beginning at 3:00 PM.
• Always drive slowly, stay alert, and avoid texting or other distractions while in the parking lot, as students and staff will be walking throughout the area.

Thank you for helping us create a safe and welcoming environment for every Jaguar. Your patience and cooperation during arrival and dismissal play an important role in keeping our campus safe for everyone.

Rather than simply beginning another school year, Lehigh Valley Academy is beginning a milestone year.

As we celebrate 25 years of educational excellence, CEO Susan Mauser welcomes both returning and new families while reflecting on how far LVA has come—from opening its doors in 2002 with 175 students to becoming a thriving K–12 International Baccalaureate World School serving nearly 2,000 students today.

In her letter, Mrs. Mauser shares,

“Every school year represents a fresh chapter, and this year, as we celebrate our silver anniversary, we have even more reasons to look ahead with optimism and pride.”

She also encourages students to embrace the qualities of the IB Learner Profile while thanking families, faculty, staff, and the Board of Trustees for helping shape the LVA community over the past quarter century.

As we embark on this special anniversary year, we invite you to read Mrs. Mauser’s full welcome letter and join us in celebrating the people, milestones, and memories that have made LVA what it is today—while looking ahead to an exciting future together.

Read the full CEO Welcome Letter → CEO Letter