About the York Academy

The York Academy is a tuition-free, diverse nonprofit public school of choice in downtown York, PA. Students receive a stellar, well-rounded education that prepares them for college and beyond through the challenging International Baccalaureate (IB) curriculum. They are part of a small school community that's supporting and uplifting. 

York Academy students connect their learning to the world around them through enriching on and off-campus experiences and meaningful community and global service projects. They have access to incredible learning experiences that are unmatched locally. Our caring, qualified educators empower the students to be lifelong learners who thrive and make a difference. They build critical and creative thinking skills and intercultural understanding and respect for others. 

Since international mindedness is key to the IB curriculum, students begin learning Spanish in kindergarten, and it becomes a major subject in seventh grade. At the Upper School (grades 7-12), students  take innovative Design Technology courses that focus on holistic problem solving using the design cycle. They also critically evaluate information and reflect on their own assumptions in the Theory of Knowledge Course (TOK). Both classes are unique to the IB curriculum and not offered in other area schools.

Students express themselves and explore their passions through our numerous progressive and visual arts classes. They can also join various clubs and extracurriculars. Our sports program is small, but mighty and expanding. We offer girls and boys basketball for students in grades 5-12 (league play) and girls volleyball. In addition, students are eligible to participate in any sport in the district where they live, and many students do. 

The York Academy is thriving and growing. Since we opened our doors in 2011, the Lower School (K-6) has reached capacity, with a substantial waiting list each year. U.S. News and World Report ranks it among PA's top 10 charter elementary schools. 

We are proud to share that nearly all of our graduates are furthering their education. Alumni have qualified as Merit Scholars and received impressive scholarships. They attend Vanderbilt University, North Carolina State, Haverford College, LaSalle University, Bridgewater College, and more. York Academy graduates are resilient, confident leaders who will impact their communities and the world.

The York Academy is an authorized International Baccalaureate (IB) World School. The IB curriculum is shared in over 5,000 schools globally in over 150 countries around the world. We are the only school in York County - and one of two in Pennsylvania - authorized to educate students through the IB Continuum. That includes the Primary Years Programme(K-6), Middle Years Programme (7-10) and Diploma Programme (11 & 12).

The Diploma Programme is respected and recognized among the world’s higher education institutions. For students, success in the IB often results in advanced standing, course credit, scholarships, and other admissions related benefits at many universities.

If you have not visited York Academy and are interested in a tour, please contact the Lower School at 717-801-3900 or the Upper School (grades 7-12) at 717-900-5001. You may also email us at [email protected].