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At Lehigh Valley Academy Regional Charter School (LVA RCS), we believe in empowering every Jaguar to pursue a path that fits their unique talents and dreams. The International Baccalaureate (IB) Career-related Programme (CP) offers LVA students a powerful combination of rigorous academics and real-world career preparation that aligns perfectly with our school’s commitment to global awareness, community engagement, and personal growth. Here are 10 reasons why the CP is an ideal choice for LVA Jaguars:

1. LVA Jaguars Serve Their Community
The CP’s service learning component aligns with LVA’s dedication to helping students think beyond themselves. By engaging in meaningful community service, students develop empathy and become active contributors to our local and global communities.

2. Connecting Global Issues to Our Local World
At LVA, students don’t just learn about the world—they explore how international issues impact our region. The CP encourages students to think critically about real-world challenges from both global and local perspectives.

3. Blending Academic Excellence with Hands-On Experience
LVA’s approach values both intellectual growth and practical skills. The CP reflects this by combining strong academic subjects with career-related learning, preparing students for success beyond high school.

4. Pursue What Truly Inspires You
Whether your passion lies in technology, healthcare, business, or the arts, the CP lets LVA students tailor their studies to match their interests and future goals—because education is most meaningful when it’s personal.

5. Opening Doors to Many Futures
CP graduates at LVA are ready for college, apprenticeships, or the workforce. This pathway expands opportunities across a wide range of industries, giving Jaguars the flexibility to shape their own futures.

6. Embracing Cultural Understanding and Diversity
Reflecting LVA’s diverse student body, the CP emphasizes language development and cultural studies, helping students gain respect and appreciation for different cultures—an essential skill in today’s interconnected world.

7. Building Lifelong Friendships and Professional Networks
Collaboration is a hallmark of the LVA experience. The CP fosters teamwork and relationship-building through group projects and shared learning, helping students form bonds that last beyond graduation.

8. Sparking Creativity and Innovation
At LVA, we encourage students to think outside the box. The CP challenges students to apply creativity and critical thinking in their coursework and career-related projects, nurturing future innovators and leaders.

9. Developing Key Life Skills for Success
The CP promotes communication, self-management, and problem-solving skills—qualities LVA emphasizes to prepare students for all aspects of life, from college to career and beyond.

10. Becoming Confident, Independent Learners
Through the reflective project and rigorous coursework, CP students at LVA gain confidence in their research and decision-making abilities—skills that empower them to take ownership of their learning journey.

Whether you’re aiming for higher education, a career, or both, the IB Career-related Programme offers LVA students a supportive, flexible, and challenging pathway to achieve their goals.

Ready to learn more about how the CP can help you thrive as a Jaguar? Visit ibo.org/cp or talk to your LVA counselor today!

This past month, Lehigh Valley Academy proudly hosted its very first Summer Basketball Camp for students in grades 1–6 — and it was a huge success! Held over two exciting weeks in July, the camp welcomed boys and girls of all skill levels for a fun, fast-paced experience filled with teamwork, training, and Jaguar pride.

Week 1: Little Ballers, Big Energy! (Grades 1–3)

From July 14–18, our youngest Jaguars took the court with confidence and curiosity. Through fun, hands-on stations, campers learned the fundamentals of basketball including:

• Dribbling like pros 🏀
• Team passing drills 🤝
• Shooting on mini hoops 🎯
• Defensive moves that got them grooving 🛡️

We were blown away by their enthusiasm, positive attitudes, and all the big smiles throughout the week. These little ballers truly brought the energy!

Week 2: Train Like a Champion (Grades 4–6)

During Week 2 (July 21–25), our older Jaguars came ready to level up their game. This session focused on advancing their skills and pushing personal limits with:

• Advanced ball handling, shooting, passing, and defense 🎯
• Development drills and refined technique work 💪
• Strength, agility, and conditioning workouts 🏃‍♂️💨
• Competitive scrimmages and team-building exercises 🏆

With guidance from certified trainers and experienced players, our athletes showed incredible focus, grit, and growth. They trained like champions and made our Jaguar community proud!

A Winning Finish

To celebrate all their hard work, every camper went home with a goodie bag that included a mini basketball, a Jaguar water bottle, and more fun surprises. Of course, they also received an official camp T-shirt and certificate of completion — a symbol of their dedication and progress.

Thank You!

Thank you to our coaches, trainers, and families for making our first summer basketball camp such a fantastic experience. We’re so proud of our student-athletes and can’t wait to bring this energy back next year!

Stay tuned for more athletic opportunities with LVA Jaguars Athletics — and as always, Train Like a Champion!

When families share their experience at Lehigh Valley Academy Regional Charter School, we listen closely—because their words reflect the heart of what we strive to provide every day. One recent anonymous review on our Niche profile captured that mission in full, touching on the academics, environment, and opportunities that make LVRCS truly special.

“Lehigh Valley Regional Charter School offers an outstanding educational experience, with exceptional opportunities that truly set it apart.”
We’re proud that families recognize the breadth and depth of the opportunities available at LVARCS. Whether through our academic pathways, arts integration, or enrichment options, we aim to give students access to experiences that open doors to their futures.

“The diverse range of academic programs challenges students to excel, supported by dedicated and passionate teachers who inspire a love for learning.”
At LVA, rigor meets heart. Our teachers go beyond instruction—they ignite curiosity, encourage critical thinking, and build meaningful relationships with students. The result? Classrooms filled with purpose, enthusiasm, and growth.

“The school’s food service is equally impressive, providing nutritious and delicious meal options that show a genuine commitment to student well-being.”
Well-being matters. That’s why our food service doesn’t cut corners. Healthy, satisfying meals support not only physical health, but academic focus and emotional balance. We’re proud to offer students fuel that helps them feel—and perform—their best.

“Beyond academics, the activities and sports programs are fantastic, offering students numerous ways to explore their passions, build teamwork, and stay active.”
We believe that learning extends far beyond the classroom. Our vibrant athletics and extracurricular programs give students the chance to lead, collaborate, and grow as individuals. Whether on the field or in a club, there’s space for every interest and skill level.

“From engaging clubs to competitive sports, there’s something for everyone, fostering a vibrant school community.”
This sense of belonging is what we cherish most. LVA thrives because of the diverse passions and personalities that walk our halls. We work hard to ensure every student can find their place—and their people.

“The emphasis on both academic and personal growth makes Lehigh Valley Regional Charter School a wonderful place for students to thrive in all areas of their development.”
This is the heart of our mission: educating the whole child. We strive to nurture students intellectually, socially, and emotionally, preparing them not just for the next grade, but for life.

“Highly recommended for families looking for a well-rounded, supportive, and enriching educational environment!”
We’re grateful for feedback like this—and even more grateful for the families who make Lehigh Valley Academy what it is: a strong, connected, and forward-thinking learning community.

Want to see more parent perspectives or learn about our programs?
Visit our Niche profile or explore our website to dive deeper into what makes LVARCS a place where students truly thrive.

As summer begins to wind down, excitement starts to build at Lehigh Valley Academy RCS.

The countdown to a brand-new school year is officially on — and with it comes fresh opportunities to grow, connect, and lead with intention.

In the International Baccalaureate (IB) community, the start of school isn’t just about supplies and schedules. It’s about preparing to embody the IB Learner Profile traits in and out of the classroom — traits like being open-minded, reflective, and risk-takers.

Whether students are returning to a familiar campus or stepping into their very first day at LVA, this time of year encourages curiosity, courage, and personal growth. We know that growth doesn’t always come from having the right answers — it often comes from asking the right questions, trying something new, or stepping outside your comfort zone.

As we gear up for the year ahead, we encourage students and families to reflect on this question:
“What kind of learner — and person — do I want to be this year?”

From our youngest Kindergartners to our graduating Seniors, every member of our community has the chance to start this new chapter with purpose and possibility.

Here’s to a year filled with learning, leading, and living the values that make LVA and the IB experience so impactful!

At Lehigh Valley Academy Regional Charter School, we believe that how students show up each day sets the tone for how they engage, learn, and grow. That’s why we’ve established a standardized dress code—to foster a focused, respectful learning environment and promote a culture of equality. By removing name brands and status symbols—subtle yet often distinguishing signs of social standing—we help ensure that every student is valued for who they are, not what they wear.

Required attire may vary by grade level and is described in detail within the student handbook for each building. All students must arrive at school in dress code and remain in dress code while on school property. Consequences for dress code violations, including repeated offenses, are outlined in the school’s Code of Conduct.

Dress Code Details & Where to Find Them

To help families get a head start and avoid any confusion, we’ve made the dress code easily accessible:

• Check your student’s handbook
• Visit the LVA website for quick reference

Both outline specific requirements by grade level and explain what is and isn’t permitted.

LVA-Approved Vendors for Dress Code Clothing

To make shopping easier, we’ve compiled a list of LVA-approved vendors who offer clothing lines that align with our dress code. While these vendors carry items suitable for LVA, please note that not all items on each site will meet our dress code—we recommend reviewing selections carefully.

Approved vendors include:

• Walmart
• Lands’ End Online → Select “School Uniforms” → Find your school’s dress code
• French Toast Online → Search for “Lehigh” in Bethlehem, PA
• Target
• Flynn & O’Hara → Ask for Lehigh Valley Academy RCS approved clothing
• JCPenney
• Burlington Coat Factory → Search “Uniform” in their site
• Old Navy → Great deals available right now!
• The Archive → Our go-to for local uniform resale and savings

LVA encourages families to shop from these sources helps ensure consistency in school attire and minimizes the potential for dress code violations or disciplinary action.

Interested in LVA-Branded Attire?

If you’re looking for LVA-branded clothing that meets our dress code—whether it’s for the classroom or gym — we’ve got you covered! We offer a variety of items that align with school uniform policies and allow students to show their LVA pride.

To browse options:

• Visit our website
• Hover over the “School Life” tab
• Click “School Store”

There, you’ll find:

• Dress code-approved uniform items
• LVA gym class apparel
• Spirit gear students are allowed to wear on dress-down days and special events

Bonus: For every purchase made in the Sports and Performing Arts sections, a portion of the proceeds goes directly back to LVA to support our student programs!

New products will be released throughout the year, so make sure you are subscribed to our newsletter so you don’t miss a drop!

Uniform Clothing Drive:

This year, the National Junior Honor Society hosted an LVA Uniform Clothing Drive, where families donated gently used LVA dress code attire their children had outgrown. The purpose? To give back to fellow students while supporting NJHS service projects and student leadership.

All donated items have been cleaned and safely stored. A Clothing Drive Sale Event is in the works—event dates are TBD, so stay tuned! This initiative not only provides affordable dress code options for families but also strengthens our school community.

Set Your Student Up for a Great Year

Starting the year off in dress code means one less thing to worry about—and one more way to help your student stay focused and ready to learn. We appreciate your partnership in helping LVA maintain a respectful, inclusive, and learning-centered school culture.

Need more guidance?

Reach out to your student’s building administrator or refer to the handbook for more details.

At Lehigh Valley Academy, the International Baccalaureate (IB) framework isn’t just a curriculum—it’s a philosophy that shapes how we teach, how students learn, and how families experience school as a true community. For many LVA families, the journey is more than academic—it’s personal, transformative, and deeply rooted in support, global thinking, and belonging.

We’re proud to share what three families—both current and former—have said about their experiences at LVA.

One current parent, whose son began at LVA in kindergarten, reflected on the school’s impact not just on his education, but on their entire family:

“LVA is wonderful! My son has attended since kindergarten and we couldn’t be happier with his education. Faculty is thoughtful, inspirational, and engaging. Each year the school adds more clubs and athletics. We have really good Cross Country and basketball teams. The Arts really shine here with an amazing music and dramatics department. I love knowing my child is exposed to such a global way of thinking and that the educators adapt to his way of learning. LVA parents are a tight community and everyone you meet feels like family. It takes a village to raise children and LVA is a great village to be in.”
— Current LVA Parent

Another former parent, whose daughter recently graduated, expressed heartfelt gratitude for the nurturing environment she experienced throughout her time at LVA:

“I’m truly grateful for the years that our daughter, Suhaylah, spent there. Now that she’s graduated, I’m going to miss LVA. Thank you for creating a safe environment in which she learned, grew, and blossomed.”
— Former LVA Parent

And for one family whose child completed the full IB continuum—PYP (Primary Years Programme), MYP (Middle Years Programme), and DP (Diploma Programme)—the LVA experience was equally impactful:

“As a parent of a student who has attended all three programs, PYP, MYP, and DP, I am very pleased with the opportunities afforded to my child. I love how the program has continued to evolve and improve, especially with the new facilities, lunch program, and addition of multiple sports teams.”
— Former LVA Parent

These testimonials highlight the very essence of what LVA strives to be—a place where students are not only academically challenged, but deeply supported, artistically inspired, globally minded, and socially connected.

From the PYP’s focus on curiosity and foundational skills, to the MYP’s emphasis on independence and critical thinking, and finally the DP’s rigorous preparation for college and lifelong learning, LVA’s approach is designed to grow with your child.

Outside the classroom, our evolving programs—like expanding athletics, performing arts, service learning, and extracurricular clubs—ensure students can explore their passions and feel a true sense of community. And behind every academic milestone is a team of educators committed to honoring each student’s learning style, voice, and journey.

LVA is more than a school. It’s a journey of growth, belonging, and boundless opportunity.

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Enrollment Information

LVA’s waiting list for the 2025–2026 school year has already been generated. If you’re interested in being added to the list, please contact Admissions at admissions@lvacademy.org or call 610-866-9660 ext. 2222.

Planning ahead for the 2026–2027 school year? We invite you to attend a winter information session, held annually from December through March, where you can learn more about LVA’s IB programs, student life, and enrollment process. Stay tuned for upcoming dates and details as admissions season approaches!

While students and teachers are enjoying their well-earned summer break, the LVA campus is still buzzing with activity! From prepping classrooms to deep-cleaning, curriculum planning to tech updates—our staff and faculty are hard at work making sure the upcoming school year is even better than the last.

Here’s a peek at what’s happening behind the scenes at LVA this summer!

Deep Cleaning & Refreshing Spaces

From top to bottom, our custodial team is giving the building a fresh start.

• Classrooms, common areas, and restrooms are being deep cleaned.
• Floors are waxed, carpets are shampooed, and walls get touch-up paint.
• Outdoor spaces like playgrounds and courtyards are tidied up for safe and fun use in the fall.

Summer Projects & Upgrades

We’re making improvements across campus!

• Organizing supplies and classroom materials
• Making small repairs or enhancements to ensure a smooth start to the school year

Curriculum & Planning

Teachers may be on break, but many are still thinking ahead.

• Some staff participate in training or workshops
• Others are collaborating on new curriculum units or classroom experiences
• Planning field trips, school events, and cross-curricular initiatives for the year

Welcoming New Faces

The summer is also a time for onboarding.

• We’re excited to welcome new staff and faculty to the LVA family!
• Orientation and training help ensure a strong start for everyone
• Updates to the website and directories will help families get to know them, too

Preparing for Students’ Return

From organizing student materials to printing schedules and name tags, the final weeks of summer are all about YOU—our students and families.

• Planning Welcome Back events and orientations
• Creating classroom lists and prepping bulletin boards
• Making sure every Jaguar feels ready for an amazing year ahead

Even when the hallways are quiet, the heart of LVA is still beating strong.

Our behind-the-scenes summer work is all about preparing a safe, welcoming, and inspiring environment where every student can thrive. We can’t wait to see you in the fall!

Just because school is out doesn’t mean the learning has to stop! Summer is the perfect time to explore, imagine, and grow—without the pressure of homework or tests. We’ve rounded up simple, screen-light ways to keep students’ minds engaged through everyday adventures, creativity, and curiosity.

Read Something Every Day

Encourage reading for fun, not just for school.

• Visit your local library’s summer reading program
• Start a family book club or reading challenge
• Let kids pick books based on their interests (graphic novels, sports, fantasy, etc.)
• Try audiobooks on car rides or quiet afternoons

Learn Through Play & Exploration

Everyday activities can be full of learning opportunities.

• Go on a nature walk and start a “Backyard Science” journal
• Visit local museums, science centers, or historical landmarks
• Cook a recipe from another country and learn about its culture
• Play logic or word games like Bananagrams, Sudoku, or crossword puzzles

Hands-On Projects & DIY Fun

Keep creativity and problem-solving alive through projects.

• Build something with LEGO or recycled materials
• Make your own board game
• Do simple science experiments (like making a homemade volcano or growing a bean sprout)
• Create a photo or video documentary of your summer adventures

Tech with Purpose

Use screen time intentionally with educational tools.

• Free and safe apps like Duolingo (languages), Prodigy (math), and Tynker (coding)
• Watch kid-friendly documentaries or educational YouTube channels
• Create digital art, animations, or blogs about a topic your child loves

Keep a Summer Journal or Sketchbook

Writing and drawing are great ways to reflect, imagine, and express.

• Try journal prompts like: “If I ruled the world for a day…” or “My favorite summer memory so far”
• Encourage sketching what they see on walks, trips, or around the house
• Combine writing with photography or scrapbooking for a creative keepsake

Summer learning doesn’t have to be structured to be meaningful. With a little creativity and curiosity, families can turn everyday moments into opportunities for discovery, reflection, and fun. However you spend your summer, we hope it’s full of joyful learning—and we can’t wait to hear all about it when school starts again!

We are thrilled to celebrate one of our own—Aryash, a standout middle school student at Lehigh Valley Academy—who has been named a 2025 3M Young Scientist Challenge State Merit Winner! Aryash is the only student from Pennsylvania to receive this prestigious recognition, earning his place among just 32 students nationwide selected for their innovation, scientific insight, and exceptional communication skills.

Aryash’s submission, titled GreenBeam – Autonomous Laser Weed Control, earned recognition in the nation’s premier science competition for middle school students, co-hosted by 3M and Discovery Education. Now in its eighteenth year, the 3M Young Scientist Challenge encourages students in grades 5–8 to identify everyday problems and submit original ideas using science to solve them. This year’s categories included robotics, safety, home improvement, climate technology, and more—underscoring the vital role of STEM in shaping a better world.

“The 3M Young Scientist Challenge inspires student curiosity and helps build confidence by connecting what’s learned in the classroom to the real world in tangible and hands-on ways,” said Amy Nakamoto, Executive Vice President of Marketing and Corporate Partnerships at Discovery Education. “Congratulations to each of the students honored for your effort to use science to create a better world.”

Each year, the competition recognizes a grand prize winner, 10 national finalists, four honorable mentions, and state merit winners from across the U.S. Past participants have gone on to give TED Talks, file patents, found nonprofits, and be featured in TIME Magazine, The New York Times, and on national television. In 2022, the competition launched the 3M Young Scientist Alumni Network, offering mentorship and connection opportunities to over 100 past winners and finalists.

The challenge also supports the Young Scientist Lab—a collaboration between 3M and Discovery Education that provides free, high-quality STEM resources for students, teachers, and families. These materials are also available through Discovery Education’s digital platform, reaching millions of learners worldwide.

Aryash’s achievement is a shining example of what happens when a student embodies the IB Learner Profile—demonstrating traits like inquiry, open-mindedness, risk-taking, and principled action—while applying real-world knowledge to global challenges. His recognition reminds us all of the boundless potential in our students and the transformative power of science, innovation, and lifelong learning at LVA.

We’re incredibly proud of him for representing Lehigh Valley Academy and Pennsylvania on a national stage. Congrats, Aryash!

Lehigh Valley Academy is proud to highlight the accomplishments of an extraordinary member of our graduating class: Simon Hume, Class of 2025. As Simon prepares to begin the next chapter of his journey at Northeastern University, where he’ll be studying mechanical engineering (admitted to a school with just a 7% acceptance rate), we reflect on the lasting impact he’s made at LVA and the bright future ahead of him.

From his earliest days at LVA—having attended since kindergarten—Simon has embodied the IB Learner Profile traits and consistently demonstrated the 12 Attitudes that are central to an IB education. His time here has been marked by a commitment to being principled, caring, balanced, reflective, open-minded, communicative, and knowledgeable, just to name a few.

Simon’s dedication, curiosity, and perseverance speak volumes about the kind of learner—and person—he is. He explored the full IB Diploma Programme (DP), embracing a rigorous academic curriculum designed to develop internationally minded individuals who recognize their shared humanity and responsibility to make the world a better place.

His academic achievements are vast and impressive. Simon graduated Magna Cum Laude, maintaining a GPA of 3.60–4.14 throughout his entire high school career. He was recognized as a Scholar-Athlete, earning a GPA of 3.5 or higher while participating in sports during his senior year. He also served as President of Mu Alpha Theta, the National Mathematics Honor Society, and was an active member in:

• National Art Honor Society
• RHO KAPPA National Social Studies Honor Society
• Science National Honor Society
• National Honor Society
• National English Honor Society
• Spanish National Honor Society (Sociedad Honoraria Hispánica)

Simon doesn’t just exemplify what it means to be an inquirer and thinker—he leads by example and takes initiative in everything he does. Athletically, he has shown commitment, teamwork, and sportsmanship through his involvement in lacrosse, cross country, and as a team manager for the girls’ basketball team.

His excellence in lacrosse led to two of the most prestigious honors from USA Lacrosse:

• Academic All-American, awarded to student-athletes who shine both on the field and in the classroom
• Bob Scott Award, given to just one player per area who best represents the qualities of leadership, character, and service

Simon has also demonstrated the IB attitudes of empathy, respect, integrity, and commitment—not just through his academic and athletic work, but in how he interacts with others and contributes to the LVA community.

This year’s commencement ceremony was not only a celebration of academic achievements, but also a moment to honor the legacy of those who have helped shape our school community. During the event, our high school principal, Ms. Nonnemacher, announced the recipient of the Dr. Jennings Scholarship, a new memorial scholarship established in honor of the late Dr. Dan Jennings, beloved Assistant Principal for grades 9–12, who sadly passed away in 2023.

The Dr. Jennings Scholarship is awarded to a student who best represents the core values of the U.S. Air Force, where Dr. Jennings proudly served as a recent retiree of the Air National Guard:

1. Integrity First
2. Service Before Self
3. Excellence in All We Do

While rooted in military tradition, these values align seamlessly with LVA’s own high school motto—Integrity and Effort—as well as key pillars of the IB Programme, particularly the focus on service to others and developing principled, balanced leaders. The presentation of this scholarship served as a powerful reminder of the lasting impact Dr. Jennings had on our school and the kind of character we hope to cultivate in all our graduates.

In addition, Simon was recognized as one of four recipients of a $1,500 scholarship from the Education Foundation of Lehigh Valley Academy, generously sponsored by the Lehigh Valley Private Equity Fund. This award was the result of a competitive and anonymous review process, reflecting Simon’s academic excellence, leadership, and potential for continued success in higher education.

As one of only 23 students in the Class of 2025 to have completed Continuous K–12 Enrollment at LVA, Simon’s journey has been one of growth, exploration, and excellence every step of the way.

At LVA, we believe in preparing students not just for college—but for life. The IB Learner Profile is more than a set of values; it’s a framework for becoming a thoughtful, ethical, and globally aware citizen. Simon exemplifies this philosophy. He is ready to take on the world, and we are more than confident he will continue to thrive.

Congratulations, Simon! We can’t wait to hear all that you accomplish.