The LVA Education Foundation is thrilled to share a heartfelt recap of our recent Designer Bag & Accessories Bingo—an event that once again showcased the generosity, spirit, and togetherness of the LVA community. What began as a fun afternoon of games and prizes turned into a remarkable show of support for our students and staff.
From the moment doors opened, the room was filled with energy. Families, alumni, staff members, and new friends gathered at the tables, eager for a chance to win designer bags, accessories, and raffle prizes—yet even more inspired to support the mission of the Education Foundation. It was truly a beautiful mix of longtime supporters and first-time attendees coming together for a shared purpose.
By the end of the event, thanks to everyone’s participation and generosity, we proudly raised more than $7,000. These funds will directly support initiatives that enhance learning experiences, increase opportunities for students, and ensure our staff have the resources they need to continue delivering high-quality education. Every dollar raised represents a tangible impact on our classrooms, programs, and school community.
We also want to recognize the incredible businesses and partners who helped make this event possible. Our sincere gratitude goes to:
BSI Corporate Benefits
R 5 Design Co.
Pany & Lentz Engineering Co.
Alpha Chiropractic
Joan Steinberg – Pampered Chef Consultant
Bethlehem FOP
Allentown FOP
A Plus DJs
Their commitment to supporting local education played a vital role in the success of this fundraiser.
As we reflect on the afternoon, what stands out most is not just the funds raised—it’s the sense of community that filled the room. Laughter between rounds, friendly competition, conversations between families, and new connections formed all contributed to an atmosphere that felt uniquely “LVA.”
To those who attended, volunteered, sponsored, donated, or helped spread the word: thank you. You are making a meaningful difference in the lives of our students. We’re grateful to have you as part of the LVA family, and we look forward to continuing this tradition for years to come.
Stay tuned for more updates and future Education Foundation events—there is so much more ahead!
Lehigh Valley Academy Regional Charter School (LVA) is now accepting applications for the 2026–2027 school year.
We’re proud to offer a tuition-free, public K–12 education through the globally recognized International Baccalaureate (IB) Programme, preparing students to think critically, act compassionately, and lead confidently in an ever-changing world.
As valued members of the LVA community, we invite you to help us share the news with friends, family, neighbors, and colleagues who may be interested in joining our Jaguar family. Encourage them to attend an Admissions Information Session to learn more about what makes LVA one of Pennsylvania’s top public charter schools.
Application Deadline: March 4, 2026 Lottery Day: March 9, 2026 Learn more and apply:www.lvacademy.org/admissions
Together, we can continue to grow a community of curious, confident, and caring learners — because every Jaguar starts strong at LVA.
Excellence Recognized — LVA Named #1 in Pennsylvania by Niche
We’re proud to announce that Lehigh Valley Academy Regional Charter School (LVA) has been recognized by Niche as one of the very best schools in Pennsylvania for 2026.
LVA earned:
#1 Best Public K–12 School in Pennsylvania
#1 Best Charter K–12 School in Pennsylvania
#1 Most Diverse Public K–12 School in Pennsylvania
These distinctions highlight the incredible commitment of our students, teachers, staff, and families who make up the heart of Jaguar Nation. Each recognition reflects our shared dedication to academic excellence, inclusion, and the values of the International Baccalaureate (IB) philosophy that guide our classrooms every day.
Serving students from at least 19 different school districts across the Lehigh Valley, LVA provides access to a world-class IB education for families who may not otherwise have that opportunity. Within our K–12 community, 31 languages are spoken, representing a vibrant global culture that mirrors the diversity of our region and enriches the educational experience for every learner.
With a 99% graduation rate, LVA continues to demonstrate that a globally minded, inclusive approach to education leads to success both in the classroom and beyond.
For those unfamiliar, Niche is a trusted platform that connects families with schools and communities across the country. Their rankings are based on a rigorous analysis of data from the U.S. Department of Education, combined with millions of student and parent reviews, to provide an authentic look at school quality, culture, and outcomes.
At LVA, we believe education is more than academics — it’s about preparing globally minded learners who are curious, compassionate, and committed to making a difference. This honor reaffirms our mission and inspires us to continue striving for excellence in all that we do.
Why It Matters — Why Your Voice Counts
As members of the LVA community, you’ve seen firsthand how our school goes beyond traditional education. You’ve watched students explore their passions, develop global perspectives, and grow into lifelong learners. Sharing your story helps more families access the same opportunity.
1. School Choice Matters
Every child learns differently, and every family deserves the right to choose the school that best fits their needs. As Nathan Hoffman, Policy and Research Director at Empower Illinois, explains:
“The best public school won’t work for every student. The best private school won’t work for every student. The best public-charter school won’t work for every student. The best virtual school won’t work for every student. It’s about having options.”
2. LVA Is One of Those Options — and a Strong One
LVA provides a tuition-free, high-quality alternative to traditional public and private schools through the International Baccalaureate curriculum, small-school culture, and emphasis on character, creativity, and community. Our recent #1 Niche rankings and exceptional 99% graduation rate are proof of the excellence families can expect when they join the Jaguar community.
3. Education Is a Choice, Not a One-Size-Fits-All Model
When you buy a car or choose a new job, you explore options before deciding what fits best. Education should be no different. Families deserve to find the environment that supports their child’s learning style and future goals.
4. Not All Families Have Equal Access to Strong Schools
Some families live in underfunded districts or cannot afford private tuition. LVA bridges that gap by offering an equitable, globally recognized education to families across the Lehigh Valley region — with open enrollment for students from 19 different districts and an inclusive community where over 30 languages are celebrated.
5. Word-of-Mouth Is Powerful
Your recommendation could be the reason a student discovers their potential, a family feels hopeful, or a child finds a school where they truly belong.
The Bigger Picture — The Importance of School Choice
Families choose schools for many reasons: location, safety, class size, academic focus, or sense of community. Whatever the reason, having options is what makes those choices possible.
School choice gives parents the freedom to seek an education that aligns with their values and their child’s unique learning needs. For some, that means smaller classes; for others, it’s a rigorous international curriculum like LVA’s IB Programme that encourages critical thinking, intercultural understanding, and personal growth.
Some families live in districts with well-funded, well-run traditional neighborhood schools where class sizes are low and parent involvement is high. Others do not have that luxury. In some districts, resources are limited, schools are overcrowded, or students lack access to the technology and support they need to succeed.
That’s why schools like LVA are vital to the educational landscape. They offer another path — one where students are challenged, supported, and inspired to become their best selves.
Join Us in Spreading the Word
When you share information about LVA admissions, 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.
We’re proud to announce that Lehigh Valley Academy Regional Charter School (LVA) has been recognized by Niche as one of the very best schools in Pennsylvania for 2026!
LVA earned:
#1 Best Public K–12 School in Pennsylvania
#1 Best Charter K–12 School in Pennsylvania
#1 Most Diverse Public K–12 School in Pennsylvania
These distinctions highlight the incredible commitment of our students, teachers, staff, and families who make up the heart of Jaguar Nation. Each recognition is a reflection of our shared dedication to academic excellence, inclusion, and the values of the International Baccalaureate (IB) philosophy that guide our classrooms every day.
For those unfamiliar, Niche is a trusted platform that connects families with schools and communities across the country. Their rankings are based on a rigorous analysis of data from the U.S. Department of Education, combined with millions of student and parent reviews, to provide an authentic look at school quality, culture, and outcomes.
At LVA, we believe education is more than academics — it’s about preparing globally minded learners who are curious, compassionate, and committed to making a difference. This honor reaffirms our mission and inspires us to continue striving for excellence in all that we do.
Thank you to our students, staff, and families for making LVA a place where learning thrives and every Jaguar shines!
At Lehigh Valley Academy RCS, we take immense pride in celebrating the achievements of our IB learners — students who think critically, act compassionately, and strive to make a positive difference in their communities and beyond.
This week, we’re spotlighting Arin, a Lehigh Valley Academy IB Diploma Programme candidate (Class of 2027), whose entrepreneurial spirit and global mindset exemplify what it means to be an IB learner. Arin was recently recognized as a four-time finalist and three-time winner in the #RoadToLioncage Pitch Competition, hosted by Penn State Brandywine’s LaunchBox and i2N Network. His socioeconomic initiative focuses on empowering underrepresented individuals to pursue higher education — a mission that reflects the IB’s core values of equity, service, and intercultural understanding.
During a recent visit with Principal Mr. Raeford, Arin shared his signed finalist certificate — a proud moment that highlights his commitment to inquiry, reflection, and principled action both inside and outside the classroom.
As Arin prepares to compete with 30 top-tier innovators on November 14, we join the LVA community in cheering him on. His journey illustrates the power of an IB education — fostering young people who are not only knowledgeable, but also caring, balanced, and open-minded leaders ready to shape a better world.
Congratulations, Arin — your achievements remind us what’s possible when education inspires action and when innovation meets the IB mission.
LVA’s spring musical is set to rock the stage—Bye Bye Birdie is coming to town! Set in the swingin’ 1950s, this classic follows rock idol Conrad Birdie’s whirlwind farewell before he’s drafted, with plenty of comedy, heart, and toe-tapping tunes. From energetic teen ensembles to standout character roles (think Albert, Rosie, Kim, the MacAfees, and more), there’s a place for every performer—singers, dancers, and storytellers alike.
Audition Details
Auditions: November 10–14
Sign-Up Deadline: November 5
How to Register: Use the sign-up link here or email Ms. Pascale. (Additional audition specifics—materials, times, and callbacks—are posted on the sign-up page.)
Bring your best energy, your love of rock ’n’ roll, and get ready to help us transform the LVA stage into Sweet Apple, U.S.A.!
Community Spotlight: LVA Hearts the Arts
We’re thrilled to celebrate four members of our LVA community who have been cast in Civic Theatre of Allentown’s production of A Christmas Carol:
Kelly & Caiden Baer — Kelly Baer, Chairman of the Education Foundation of LVA, joins her son Caiden, who will play the lead role of Tiny Tim!
Odessa & Jace Langlais — Odessa Langlais appears as Mrs. Fezziwig, while her son Jace takes on the incredible role of Scrooge at just 13 years old!
Cheer them on and make it a family night at the theatre! Performance details and tickets are available through the Civic Theatre of Allentown: A Christmas Carol – Upcoming Performances
Whether you’re auditioning for Bye Bye Birdie or supporting our Jaguars on a professional stage, thank you for keeping the arts vibrant in our community. Break a leg, everyone!
Next week, Lehigh Valley Academy’s 12th graders will take part in SAT School Day, giving students the opportunity to complete this important college readiness exam right here at school.
Introduced in 2010 and offered at LVA since 2021, SAT School Day was created to make the test more accessible and equitable for students who may face challenges attending weekend testing—such as work schedules, family responsibilities, or transportation issues. Testing at LVA allows students to perform in a familiar, supportive environment surrounded by peers and staff they know.
As our College Counselor explained:
“SAT School Day helps make the SAT more accessible to students that may not be able to gain access to weekend testing. It also gives them the chance to test in their own school environment. Even if we were approved as a weekend test site, we would continue offering School Day because of the difference it makes for our students. Many take the SAT for the first or second time here at LVA to try for a higher score—and they feel much more comfortable doing so.”
While testing days can sometimes feel stressful or disruptive, opportunities like these are essential stepping stones for our students’ futures. To help seniors feel prepared and confident, here are a few key tips to study smarter—not harder—this week:
Create a Realistic Schedule Plan your study sessions around your daily routine and responsibilities. A balanced approach helps you stay consistent without feeling overwhelmed.
Take Short Breaks Avoid long cram sessions—short, focused study blocks with breaks in between improve focus and memory retention.
Use a Variety of Study Tools Flashcards, online practice tests, and apps like Khan Academy can help reinforce key skills and keep studying engaging.
Prioritize Sleep and Nutrition Rest and healthy meals can make a huge difference in energy, focus, and test performance.
Reflect and Review At the end of each study session, jot down areas you want to revisit. Tracking progress helps boost confidence and clarity before test day.
Keep the Big Picture in Mind Remember, the SAT is just one step in your academic journey. Growth, effort, and perseverance are what truly define success.
LVA is proud to offer this opportunity and to continue supporting our Jaguars as they prepare for the next step in their educational journey. Good luck, Class of 2026—you’ve got this!
Each year, Lehigh Valley Academy proudly welcomes an author or illustrator to connect with our students and inspire a love of reading. Our Elementary Author Visits and book signings—typically held once or twice a year—give our youngest Jaguars a chance to meet the creators behind their favorite stories. Our middle school students also enjoy author meet and greets, continuing this tradition of fostering creativity, curiosity, and a lifelong passion for literature.
Last week, we were honored to host Juana Martinez-Neal, a Caldecott Honor recipient and New York Times–bestselling illustrator. K–5 families enjoyed an engaging presentation, hands-on illustration activity, and special book signing experience. The first 100 families to register even received a complimentary copy of her beautiful picture book, Zonia’s Rain Forest.
About the Author: Juana Martinez-Neal is the recipient of the 2019 Caldecott Honor for Alma and How She Got Her Name—her debut picture book as author-illustrator. She also received the 2020 Robert F. Sibert Medal for Fry Bread: A Native American Story and the 2018 Pura Belpré Medal for La Princesa and the Pea. Her many accolades include being named to the International Board on Books for Young People (IBBY) Honor List in 2014 and earning the SCBWI Portfolio Showcase Grand Prize in 2012.
Born in Lima, Peru, Juana now lives in Connecticut with her husband and three children. Her multicultural background shines through her work, where she blends warmth, storytelling, and heritage into every page.
In Her Own Words:
“My work is all about playing. Playing with materials, playing with ideas. And in the midst of playing, I found a life making books. It is my hope to pass that curiosity and playfulness to everyone I meet.”
Moments like these are especially meaningful for our elementary students—when imaginations bloom and a love for books begins to take root. Encouraging children to explore new genres and connect with authors helps nurture creativity and empathy, aligning perfectly with LVA’s mission as an IB World School.
Lehigh Valley Academy was honored to welcome Congressman Ryan Mackenzie for a special campus visit recognizing the achievements of Aryash, an 8th grader at LVA.
During an assembly, Congressman Mackenzie presented Aryash with a Certificate of Congressional Recognition for his outstanding contributions to science and innovation. Aryash, a 2025 PA State Merit Winner in the 3M Young Scientist Challenge, earned this distinction for his invention, GreenBeam — a solar-powered AI robot designed to remove weeds without chemicals. By reducing harmful herbicide runoff, GreenBeam not only promotes sustainable farming practices but also helps protect coral reefs and the environment.
Aryash exemplifies the IB traits of being an Inquirer and Thinker, as he asked meaningful questions, explored possibilities, and developed a creative solution to a real-world challenge. His commitment also shows how an IB Communicator can share ideas that inspire action and change. Most importantly, Aryash’s work reflects the Caring nature of our students, as his invention focuses on protecting the environment for future generations.
Congressman Mackenzie concluded his visit with a tour of the school building and spent time taking photos with our enthusiastic students, leaving them inspired by the recognition of one of their peers. Aryash’s accomplishments remind us how the IB Learner Profile traits help shape the next generation of innovators and leaders!
What better way to begin middle school than with three days of learning, teamwork, and adventure? Each year, our 6th Grade Jaguars head to Camp Canadensis for an unforgettable MYP kickoff experience.
This tradition gives students the chance to dive into the Middle Years Programme from day one—through a mix of STEAM activities, athletics, first aid skills, and hands-on lessons in math, writing, art, and science. Along the way, they discover the power of collaboration, problem-solving, and creativity while surrounded by the great outdoors.
Guided by our LVA junior and senior counselors, campers build strong bonds with classmates, tackle team-building challenges, and embrace what it means to be an IB Learner: reflective, courageous, and endlessly curious. Of course, there’s also plenty of time for campfires, games, and making memories that last all year long!
This 3-day adventure isn’t just a camp—it’s the first step in their MYP journey, one that builds confidence, friendships, and school spirit. Keep an eye out in this year’s Middle School Yearbook for more photos and stories from Camp Canadensis!
At Lehigh Valley Academy Regional Charter School, we believe that learning should spark curiosity, build confidence, and prepare students to thrive in a complex world. That’s why we proudly offer the International Baccalaureate (IB) Primary Years Programme (PYP). Rooted in inquiry, creativity, and global awareness, the PYP helps young learners become active, lifelong learners.
Here are 10 powerful reasons why the PYP is the right foundation for our students at LVA:
Caring and responsible citizens: Students learn to express their ideas, share opinions, and propose meaningful solutions that positively impact their lives and the lives of others.
It encourages students to inquire: Children are naturally curious. The PYP nurtures that curiosity, guiding students to explore, ask questions, and discover answers in collaborative environments.
Understanding a complex and interdependent world: Through real-world issues, students learn to make meaning for themselves and see how interconnected the world truly is.
PYP students are confident communicators: Our students develop the ability to communicate in many ways—and in more than one language—helping them become effective speakers, listeners, and collaborators.
Learning how to learn: Students don’t just learn facts—they learn how to learn. By working alongside teachers and peers, they gain skills to plan, present, and evaluate their own growth.
It encourages international-mindedness: Respect, empathy, and open-mindedness are at the core of the PYP. Students learn to value other cultures and perspectives while developing a strong sense of their own identity.
Seeing things from different perspectives: By using critical and creative thinking, PYP students understand ideas from multiple viewpoints—an essential skill in our diverse and connected world.
Students take action: Empowered learners become responsible citizens. PYP students believe they can make a difference, take initiative, and make thoughtful choices in their daily lives.
Thinking about issues: Whether local or global, students learn to approach challenges with imagination and problem-solving skills, preparing them to adapt in an ever-changing world.
It involves the whole school learning community: The PYP isn’t just for students—it unites teachers, families, and the wider community. Together, we celebrate learning and the belief that education makes the world more peaceful.
A Global Education—Right in Your Backyard
At LVA, the PYP empowers students to become thoughtful, confident, and compassionate learners who are prepared for success not only in school, but in life. We’re proud to provide a world-class education right here in the Lehigh Valley.
Curious to learn more about how your child can thrive at LVA?
Visit us to see the IB Primary Years Programme in action!
Lehigh Valley Academy RCS 