About York Academy

York Academy is a diverse, tuition free (K-12) public charter school that provides students with a challenging, well-rounded, college-focused stellar education. Our students learn from highly qualified teachers and staff who empower them to be active, compassionate, lifelong learners through the International Baccalaureate curriculum. 

We also offer innovative design and engineering opportunities, along with progressive performing and visual arts programming. The goal is to help students thrive and instill in them the desire and skills to succeed in college and beyond. 

The York Academy Lower School was recently named one of the top five charter elementary schools in PA by U.S. News & World Report. In addition, 91% of of first senior class (2022) qualified for the National Merit Scholarship Program and one was a National Merit Scholar, which is an amazing accomplishment! She received a full scholarship and attends Vanderbilt University.

Background & Application Information

In 2011, the Academy was established as a nonprofit public school, chartered by Central York, York City and York Suburban School Districts. Students from all school districts are welcome to apply. Currently, students who reside in 26 zip codes and 14 school districts attend York Academy. 

In accordance with our school charter, each grade is filled with a specific number of students and selected by lottery. Families are highly encouraged to apply online each February/March so their children may be included in the annual lottery. Applicants who are not selected in the lottery are placed on a waiting list. If all seats are not filled by students from the three chartering districts, open seats are made available to applicants from other districts throughout Pennsylvania. 

Currently, there is a waiting list for all grades for the 2022-23 school year. If you are interested in joining the York Academy family, we encourage you to complete the online application so your child can be added to the waiting list. Openings do become available throughout the school year, and we contact families on the waiting list by email when that happens. 

The York Academy will be accepting applications from February 1 – March 31 for students who will enter K-9^th grade in the 2023-24 school year. It is of benefit for parents or guardians to apply during this time so their children may be included in the Lottery on April 3. Please note that children must be five years old by August 31 to start kindergarten. 

Please join us at an Admissions Information Session!
You'll learn about the York Academy, our world-class International Baccalaureate curriculum, student and parent expectations, and the admissions process. You do not need to RSVP and children are welcome. Each  presentation will begin promptly at the times listed below at our Lower School (32 W. North Street, 17401). Tours will be available afterward. Please enter through the main doors on W. North Street. We look forward to meeting you and your family soon!

- Saturday, February 18 at 9 a.m.
- Wednesday, February 22 at 5:30 p.m.
- Thursday, March 9 at 5:30 p.m.

If you have questions, please call (717) 801-3900, ext. 4312 or email us at [email protected]. Thank you!

Details About the Application Process 

During the application process, you will need to upload photos of two proofs of residency reflecting your child's home address.

Examples of the first proof of residency are:
A copy of your rental lease agreement or home purchase agreement, 2021 tax bill, 2021 school property taxes, W2, 1040 or a notarized letter stating the parent's address and that the child resides there.

Examples of the second proof of residency are:
A copy of your driver's license  pay stub, utility bill (ex. water, sewer, electricity), insurance card (ex. auto) or bank statement.

If you have any questions about the application process, please email Mrs. Linda Albright or call her at (717) 801-3900. Thank you!