Lehigh Valley Academy RCS

At Lehigh Valley Academy, we often share moments from our classrooms, clubs, performances, and school events. You may see photos of students learning, videos from assemblies, or stories about special projects happening across our campus.

We do this for a reason.

We believe that every moment tells part of our story — and that story can help another family discover a place where their child can belong, grow, and succeed.

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Spread the Word

Many families learn about our school not through advertisements, but through the stories they see shared by our community.

A single post can reach someone who has never heard of us before.
A single video can help a parent imagine their child in our classrooms.

For example, when we share:

• Photos of hands-on science labs like chicken wing dissections or Renaissance invention projects inspired by Leonardo da Vinci
• Stories from our Chess Club hosting its first interscholastic tournament

We are not just showing activities — we are showing curiosity, teamwork, confidence, and pride.

These stories often travel farther than we realize and reach families who are searching for the right school for their child.

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Excellence Recognized

We are proud of the recognition our school has received. But what truly makes our community special is not just the awards — it’s the people behind them.

Our excellence shows up in moments of leadership, service, and compassion.

For example:

• Two seniors completed Eagle Scout projects that gave back to our school community by building an outdoor classroom space and creating LEGO therapy carts for students in need of support

These moments reflect our values in action.

When families see stories like these, they don’t just see a successful school — they see a school that cares.

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Why It Matters

Sharing our story is about more than highlighting events — it’s about showing what school can feel like for a child.

For many families, a single post about a classroom project, a field trip, or a student presentation is the first time they can picture their own child feeling confident and included at school.

When we share moments like:

• Students exploring college and career paths
• Participation in clubs and leadership groups such as Ski & Snowboard Club, Chess Club, and Student Council

We are showing that learning continues beyond the classroom and that every student can find their place.

Even the small moments matter.
A photo of students working together, laughing with friends, or proudly sharing their work sends a powerful message:

Your child will be seen here.
Your child will be supported here.

For families searching for the right fit, these stories offer reassurance that school can be a place of belonging, encouragement, and growth.

That is why we share our story — so another family can see it and think, “This feels like home.”

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The Bigger Picture

Every story we share has the potential to reach someone who needs hope, direction, or reassurance.

When we post about:

• Theater productions, concerts, and pep rallies
• Community service projects such as clothing drives, blood drives, and fundraisers

We are showing more than events.
We are showing confidence being built, compassion being learned, and character being shaped.

These stories help families imagine their child here — learning, growing, and belonging.

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Our Story Continues With You

We don’t tell this story alone.

Every time a family shares a post.
Every time a student shows a parent a video.
Every time someone sends our admissions link to a friend…

The story grows.

You never know who might see it.
You never know whose life it might change.

So when you see a story that makes you smile…
When you read about a project that makes you proud…
When you watch a video that reminds you why you chose Lehigh Valley Academy…

Share it.

Because stories open doors.
And every child deserves the chance to walk through one.

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Stay Connected with Lehigh Valley Academy

Our story continues every day through the moments that matter most — in our classrooms, on our stages, and throughout our community.

Follow us on social media to see:

• Student achievements and celebrations
• Classroom learning in action
• Performances, events, and school highlights
• The people who make LVA special

Click the link HERE to follow us and experience our story as it unfolds.

January marks a fresh start — a time when families naturally reflect, reset goals, and think ahead. It’s also one of the most important times of the year to explore school options for your child.

With application windows approaching and enrollment timelines on the horizon, January gives families the opportunity to research, ask questions, and make confident, informed decisions without the pressure of last-minute deadlines.

Time to Reflect on What’s Working — and What Isn’t

By mid-year, many families have a clearer picture of their child’s experience in school. Is your child engaged in learning? Feeling supported? Challenged in the right ways? January is a natural checkpoint to reflect on whether your current school environment is meeting your child’s academic and social needs.

School Choice Season Is Here

January also coincides with National School Choice Week, a time dedicated to helping families understand the educational options available to them — including public charter schools like Lehigh Valley Academy Regional Charter School.

Exploring options early allows families to:

• Learn about different educational models
• Understand admissions timelines and lottery processes
• Compare programs and school cultures
• Ask thoughtful questions before applying

See the School Before You Decide

One of the best ways to determine if a school is the right fit is to see it in action. January info sessions — whether virtual or in person — offer families the chance to:

• Meet school leaders and admissions staff
• Learn about curriculum and programs
• Explore classroom environments and student experiences
• Understand how students are supported at every grade level

These sessions are designed to help families feel informed, welcomed, and confident moving forward.

Planning Ahead Brings Peace of Mind

Waiting until spring can feel rushed. Families who begin the process in January often feel more prepared, less stressed, and better equipped to make thoughtful decisions about their child’s education.

Even if you’re just starting to explore, January is the perfect time to begin the conversation.

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Ready to Learn More?

We invite families to join us for an upcoming Admissions Information Session to explore what learning looks like at LVA and see if our school is the right fit for your child.

👉 Visit lvacademy.org/admissions to view session dates and register.

Already part of the LVA community? Help spread the word by sharing this post with friends and family who may be exploring school options this January.

At Lehigh Valley Academy, learning goes beyond the classroom—and it even extends to the slopes. Before ski season begins, students are introduced to skiing and snowboarding during PE classes through Blue Mountain Resort’s Shreducation Program.

During the off-season, Blue Mountain instructors visit LVA to work with students during PE class, bringing the Shreducation Program directly to campus. This free initiative introduces students—most recently our 8th graders—to the fundamentals of skiing and snowboarding through fun, hands-on activities led by snowsports professionals. It’s an exciting way to build confidence, spark interest, and help students feel prepared before ever stepping foot on the mountain.

This early exposure sets the stage for what’s to come through the LVA Ski & Snowboard Club, where students can take their interest even further once the season begins.

Student Spotlight: Why Ski Club Matters

Judah Konschnik, Class of 2027, MS & HS Ski Club President

For Judah, Ski Club has been one of the most meaningful parts of his high school experience. He joined after friends encouraged him to try skiing—and quickly fell in love with the sport. That passion led him to take lessons, develop his skills, and eventually secure a job as a ski instructor at the mountain, where he has been teaching for the past three years.

“Ski Club played a major role in shaping my passion for skiing and teaching others,” Judah shared. “It gives students the opportunity to get outside, be active, and try something new.”

His journey highlights how Ski Club can open doors to new hobbies, leadership opportunities, and even future career paths.

Advisor Perspective: A Lifelong Passion for the Slopes

Ms. Brenna Howard, HS Art Teacher & Ski Club Advisor

Ms. Howard has been skiing since kindergarten, when visiting relatives introduced her to Blue Mountain (formerly Little Gap Ski Area in the early 1980s). From early family trips to her years skiing in high school—and now as an advisor for the LVA Ski & Snowboard Club—her love for the sport has only grown.

“I am thrilled to share its many benefits with younger generations,” she said. Her guidance helps ensure students feel supported, safe, and inspired while exploring the slopes.

Benefits of Joining the LVA Ski & Snowboard Club

Joining the Ski & Snowboard Club offers students far more than just a day on the mountain. Members enjoy:

• New friendships and community – Students bond over shared experiences and adventures.
• Confidence-building experiences – Skiing and snowboarding encourage students to be risk-takers and conquer their fears.
• No experience required – Beginners are welcome, and lessons are available for all skill levels.
• Job opportunities at age 15 – Students can apply to work at Blue Mountain, earning a free season pass and other employee perks.
• Deeply discounted pricing – Reduced rates on lift tickets, rental equipment, and lessons exclusively for school groups.
• Fully chaperoned trips – LVA middle and high school staff members are on-site for every trip.
• Transportation included – Bus transportation to and from Blue Mountain for January and February trip dates.

Plan Ahead: Registration & Important Dates

Interested in joining next season? Now is the time to start planning!

• Registration opens: September/October
• School group deadline: October 31, 2026 (set by Blue Mountain)

Be sure to mark your calendar and start saving early so you don’t miss out on this exciting opportunity.

Take the Plunge & Learn More!

Whether you’re looking to try a new sport, spend time outdoors, or make unforgettable memories with friends, the LVA Ski & Snowboard Club has something for everyone. Take the plunge, start saving, and get ready to hit the slopes with us next season!

To explore trip details, schedules, and what to expect for the current season, visit the Ski & Snowboard Club webpage!

In Honor of National School Choice Week: January 26th – January 30th 2026!

National School Choice Week is a time to celebrate educational options and empower families with accurate information about the choices available to them. One option that is often misunderstood is public charter schools.

As a public, non-profit regional charter school, Lehigh Valley Academy Regional Charter School (LVA) is proud to help clarify common misconceptions and share the facts.

Below, we’re breaking down some of the most common myths surrounding Pennsylvania charter schools — and the truths behind them.

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Myth: Charter schools are not public schools.

Fact: Charter schools absolutely can be public schools.

In Pennsylvania, charter schools are public schools. LVA is a public, non-profit charter school, open to all students through a fair and transparent enrollment process. Like traditional public schools, charter schools are tuition-free and funded with public dollars.

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Myth: Charter schools get to pick the “best” students from traditional public schools.

Fact: Charter schools serve all students.

Charter schools do not select students based on academics, behavior, or background. When applications exceed available seats, enrollment is determined by a random lottery, as required by Pennsylvania law. As a regional school, LVA proudly educates students from 19+ school districts, creating a diverse and inclusive learning community.

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Myth: Charter schools do not answer to the public because their boards are not elected.

Fact: Charter schools are directly accountable.

Charter schools are held accountable by their authorizing school board or the Pennsylvania Department of Education. These entities have the authority to renew — or not renew — a school’s charter, making accountability central to charter school operations.

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Myth: Charter schools segregate students based on race.

Fact: Pennsylvania charter schools are highly diverse.

Charter schools across Pennsylvania serve diverse student populations and, in many cases, educate higher percentages of African-American and Hispanic students than district-run schools. At LVA, diversity is a strength and a reflection of the communities we serve.

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Myth: Charter schools are not accountable.

Fact: Charter schools are among the most accountable public schools in Pennsylvania.

Charter schools operate under performance contracts that measure academic outcomes, financial responsibility, and organizational integrity. The possibility of closure is the ultimate form of accountability — a level of oversight unmatched in traditional public school systems.

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Myth: Charter schools are large, for-profit companies.

Fact: Pennsylvania requires charter schools to be non-profit.

All brick-and-mortar and cyber charter schools in Pennsylvania must be organized as public, non-profit corporations. LVA operates with the mission of serving students and families — not generating profit.

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Myth: Charter schools do not enroll special education students.

Fact: Charter schools enroll similar ratios of special education students as public schools.

Charter schools are legally required to serve students with disabilities and provide appropriate special education services. LVA enrolls and supports special education students in alignment with state and federal requirements.

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Why School Choice Matters

National School Choice Week is about ensuring families have access to accurate information so they can make the best educational decisions for their children.

At Lehigh Valley Academy, we believe that public education can be innovative, inclusive, and globally focused, while still being accountable and accessible to all.

If you’re exploring school options for your child, we encourage you to learn more about what makes LVA unique and how our public, K–12 International Baccalaureate framework supports students from across the Lehigh Valley.

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Interested in learning more?
Visit lvacademy.org/admissions to explore our programs and register for an upcoming Admissions Information Session.

Join Us in Spreading the Word!

Already part of the LVA community? Help us spread the word by sharing this information with friends and family who may be exploring their school options!

When you share information about LVA, you’re doing more than promoting a school — you’re advocating for access, equity, and opportunity in education.

Encourage families you know to apply, attend an information session, or visit our website to learn more about our programs and community. Together, we can ensure every child has the chance to thrive in an environment designed to help them grow academically, emotionally, and globally.

Lehigh Valley Academy (LVA) is a public, non-profit charter school, and our admissions process follows the guidelines outlined in our charter and Pennsylvania Charter School Law. We understand that navigating school enrollment—especially a lottery process—can feel overwhelming, and we are committed to being as clear and supportive as possible every step of the way.

Admissions Information Sessions: Your First Step

Our Admissions Information Sessions are designed to help families better understand LVA’s academic programs, school culture, student expectations, and the admissions and lottery process. These sessions offer an opportunity to ask questions, meet members of our team, and learn what makes LVA unique.

Attending an information session is highly encouraged, though not required to apply. Families who miss a session can always find additional resources and information on our website.

How the Lottery Process Works

Because interest in LVA often exceeds the number of available seats, we conduct a random lottery when applications outnumber openings at a grade level.

Important reminders:

• Participation in the lottery requires that all required application materials are submitted by the application deadline.
• The lottery for the 2026–2027 school year will be held on March 9, 2026.
• Applications submitted after the deadline are placed on the waiting list but are not included in the lottery.

Enrollment & Waiting List Priority Order

Students are enrolled or placed on the waiting list in the following order:

1. Siblings of currently enrolled LVA students who live at the same address within the Bethlehem Area School District or Saucon Valley School District
   • If there are more siblings than available seats at a grade level, a sibling lottery is conducted.
2. Siblings of currently enrolled students who reside in other school districts
3. Students residing in Bethlehem Area School District or Saucon Valley School District
   (LVA’s chartering districts)
4. Students from all other school districts

As classroom openings occur throughout the school year, families are contacted directly from the waiting list based on this order.

Lehigh Valley Academy Regional Charter School reserves the right to verify residency during the enrollment process in accordance with state guidelines.

Why Staying on the LVA Waiting List Is Important

We know it can be difficult when your child is not selected through the lottery—but remaining on the waiting list truly matters.

Each grade level has a set enrollment cap. When a student withdraws during the school year, the next eligible student on the waiting list for that grade is contacted to fill the opening. This occurs more often than many families realize, which is why staying on the waiting list is crucial if LVA is your preferred choice.

Please keep in mind:

• Waiting lists do not carry over year to year.
• Families must submit a new application each school year to participate in the lottery or be placed on the waiting list.
• If you missed the application deadline for this year (March 4, 2026), you may still apply to be placed on the waiting list for the following fall.

How to Apply & Stay Informed

Applications can be completed through our Admissions Application Portal, accessible on our website at
 www.lvacademy.org

We also strongly encourage families to attend an Admissions Information Session to gain a deeper understanding of our programs and admissions process. Missed a session? No problem—additional information and resources are always available online.

We’re Here to Help

We recognize that this process requires patience, and we truly appreciate your continued interest in Lehigh Valley Academy. Your perseverance and commitment to your child’s education does not go unnoticed.

If you have questions or need assistance at any point, please don’t hesitate to reach out:

610-866-9660
2040 Avenue C, Bethlehem, PA 18017

Stay hopeful, stay engaged—and thank you for considering Lehigh Valley Academy for your child’s education.

At Lehigh Valley Academy, one of the ways we ensure new students feel welcomed, supported, and confident from day one is through our Student Ambassador Program—a leadership initiative led by our high school students and rooted in the values of the International Baccalaureate (IB) Learner Profile.

The program is designed with three core goals in mind:

• Assist new students as they get to know LVA
• Share experiences and expertise from the perspective of current LVA students
• Build a strong sense of community across grade levels

Through this program, students actively develop IB traits such as being Communicators, Caring, and Open-Minded, while learning how to lead with empathy and responsibility.

Ambassador Roles & Responsibilities

Student Ambassadors serve in several key roles, each aligned with IB principles and focused on helping new students feel comfortable, informed, and engaged:

• School Guides (Communicators, Knowledgeable)
  Ambassadors provide tours for new students, clearly and confidently explaining daily routines, academic spaces, and school life while answering questions from a student’s point of view.
• Mentors (Caring, Principled)
  As mentors, ambassadors offer guidance, encouragement, and support as new students acclimate to LVA—modeling integrity, kindness, and responsibility.
• Resource Assistants (Thinkers, Balanced)
  Ambassadors help new students navigate locker assignments, class schedules, and school resources, demonstrating problem-solving skills while supporting a smooth transition into school life.
• Event Promoters (Risk-Takers, Open-Minded)
  Ambassadors encourage participation in school events, clubs, and activities, helping new students step outside their comfort zones and engage fully in the LVA community.

Why the Student Ambassador Program Matters

The Student Ambassador Program reflects LVA’s commitment to developing students who are not only academically prepared, but also empathetic leaders and engaged global citizens. By empowering students to support one another, the program brings the IB Learner Profile to life in meaningful, real-world ways.

At LVA, leadership is not just taught—it’s practiced. And our Student Ambassadors exemplify what it means to learn, lead, and serve through the lens of the IB.

Learn More at an Admissions Information Session

Families of rising high school students (Grades 9–11) are invited to attend an Admissions Information Session in January 2026 to learn more about the opportunities that make Lehigh Valley Academy RCS stand apart.

During this session, families will gain a closer look at LVA’s IB pathways, course offerings, student expectations, and how our programs—along with leadership opportunities like the Student Ambassador Program—prepare learners for college, careers, and beyond.

This is an ideal time to explore which pathway best aligns with your child’s strengths, goals, and aspirations.

Visit lvacademy.org/info-sessions to register.

We also encourage current LVA families to share this opportunity with friends, neighbors, and anyone interested in learning how an IB education at LVA can help students grow as confident, capable, and compassionate learners.

At Lehigh Valley Academy, every high school student has the opportunity to pursue an educational journey that empowers them to think deeply, act responsibly, and step confidently into their future. Through our International Baccalaureate (IB) Diploma Programme (DP) and Career-related Programme (CP), students can choose the path that best aligns with their interests — while still benefiting from the shared strengths of an IB education rooted in inquiry, independence, and global awareness.

A Closer Look at the Diploma Programme (DP)

The IB Diploma Programme offers an academically rigorous and globally recognized curriculum designed for students who want to challenge themselves across a broad range of subjects. DP students learn to make cross-disciplinary connections, think critically, and apply their learning to real-world issues.

With a strong emphasis on academic writing, research, and global citizenship, the DP is ideal for students preparing for college-level coursework and future success in higher education.

A Closer Look at the Career-related Programme (CP)

The Career-related Programme blends the best of IB academics with meaningful, hands-on professional experience. CP students pair IB coursework with learning in career fields such as health science, business, or technology — gaining practical skills that prepare them for both the workforce and college.

The CP is designed for students who thrive when learning is connected to authentic, real-world applications and who want to explore a career direction before graduation.

What Connects Both Pathways?

Though DP and CP offer different approaches, both pathways are grounded in the core principles of an IB education. All LVA high school students benefit from:

• Inquiry-based learning
• Community engagement
• Research and reflection through extended projects
• A global mindset that lasts a lifetime

These shared experiences help students grow into confident, balanced, and knowledgeable young adults ready to make an impact — whether they pursue higher education, a career, or both.

A Pathway for Every Passion

No two students are the same, and neither are their futures. LVA’s IB High School model supports academic, creative, and career-oriented interests, giving students the flexibility to explore what excites them while building the skills needed for lifelong success.

Whether a student dreams of entering a competitive university, studying abroad, launching a business, or stepping into a professional field, LVA provides the foundation to help them get there.

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Interested in Learning More? Join Us in January!

Families of rising high school students (Grades 9–11) are invited to attend our Admissions Information Session in January 2026. This session offers a closer look at both IB pathways, course options, student expectations, and how our programmes prepare learners for college, careers, and beyond.

Now is the perfect time to discover which pathway fits your child’s strengths, goals, and dreams.

Visit lvacademy.org/info-sessions to register.

We encourage current LVA families to share this opportunity with friends, neighbors, and anyone curious about how an IB education can shape a student’s future!

A Night of Talent, Family, and Community Pride

There’s something special about watching young performers step into the spotlight — especially when they represent the heart, creativity, and spirit of LVA. Tonight marks an exciting moment for our school community as two members of the LVA Drama Community, Caiden Baer and Jace Langlais, take the stage for opening night of A Christmas Carol at the Civic Theatre of Allentown.

For Caiden, this evening is particularly meaningful. He will make his community theatre debut in the role of Tiny Tim, a character known for hope, resilience, and the power of believing in what’s possible — values that beautifully align with our IB mission and the learner traits we cultivate at LVA.

Jace returns to the Civic Theatre stage in the challenging and iconic role of Ebenezer at age 13. His dedication to storytelling and willingness to push himself artistically reflect the confidence and communication skills we aim to develop in all of our Middle Years students.

Adding even more heart to the production, both students will be accompanied on stage by their mothers — Kelly Baer, Chairman of the LVA Education Foundation, and Odessa Langlais, Secretary of the Education Foundation. Their involvement speaks to something we cherish deeply at LVA: that our community doesn’t just support the arts… we participate in them, celebrate them, and model the joy of creativity for our students.

The Arts at LVA: A Space to Grow, Express, and Shine

Moments like this remind us why the arts matter. Whether in drama, music, visual arts, or performance opportunities within the classroom, LVA students embrace experiences that help them grow as communicators, risk-takers, and reflective thinkers. Many of our families are also active participants in community arts organizations, strengthening the connection between what students learn in school and how they express themselves beyond it.

Seeing LVA students step into local theaters, festivals, competitions, and community events reaffirms that their learning doesn’t begin or end in the classroom — it follows them into the world.

Join Us in Supporting Our Jaguar Performers

A Christmas Carol will run from December 5–20, and we encourage our families, alumni, and community partners to come out and support Caiden, Jace, and their families during this special theatrical run.

Tickets available at: www.civictheatre.com

Let’s fill the audience with LVA pride and celebrate the incredible talent, courage, and collaborative spirit that make our Jaguars shine — on stage and beyond.