Discover a Different Kind of Education at York Academy

Why Families Choose York Academy

• Tuition-free public charter school serving grades K–12
• Focus on critical thinking, creativity, and global awareness
• 16:1 student-to-teacher ratio for personalized attention (Upper School)
• Diverse, inclusive community where students feel known and supported
• Strong preparation for college, careers, and life

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The International Baccalaureate

York Academy is the only school in our region to offer the full International Baccalaureate (IB) Programme, and one of just three schools in the entire state of Pennsylvania authorized to deliver the complete IB continuum. The IB Programme is a globally recognized framework known for its high academic standards, emphasis on critical thinking, and real-world application of learning.

Why this matters for your child:

• IB students develop strong writing, research, and analytical skills
• Colleges value IB coursework for its rigor and depth
• Graduates are well prepared for the demands of higher education
• Spanish instruction from kindergarten through graduation supports college readiness and global awareness

Our students consistently earn acceptance to respected institutions including Georgetown University, Penn State University, Temple University, Virginia Tech, and many more.

Community Service

At York Academy Regional Charter School, community service is an essential part of how students learn and grow. From the earliest grades through high school, students engage in meaningful service opportunities that connect learning to real-world impact.

Families value this because:

• Students build empathy, responsibility, and leadership skills
• Strengthens college applications through meaningful service
• Projects are connected to academic learning

Music & Visual Arts

At York Academy, the arts are a vital part of a well-rounded education. Our robust and thoughtfully resourced music and visual arts programs encourage creativity, self-expression, and confidence while reinforcing skills that support academic success.

Why this matters for your child:

• Students explore music and visual arts as part of their core learning experience
• Creative disciplines strengthen problem-solving, collaboration, and critical thinking
• Opportunities to perform, create, and showcase work build confidence and pride

The House System (K–12) 

York Academy is the only school in the region to implement a House System across all grades. The House System is a dynamic, exciting, and proven way to create a positive climate and culture for students and staff.

What the House System means for students:

• Supports character development, connection, and school spirit.
• Creates opportunities for mentorship and leadership through cross-grade relationships
• Cultivates a sense of identity, pride, and belonging from the first day of kindergarten through graduation

The result? Students feel truly known, genuinely supported, and deeply connected, both academically and socially.

If you’re looking for a school that combines academic excellence, personalized attention, and a strong sense of community, York Academy may be the right fit for your family. 

Who Can Apply?

Students from across Pennsylvania are welcome to apply. Enrollment is determined through a random lottery in accordance with state guidelines.

Application Window

• February 1 – March 31
• Lottery: April 6 at 5:30 PM
• Lottery Results shared via email

Applications submitted after March 31 will be added to the waiting list

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Considering York Academy? Attending an Admissions Information Session is the best way to fully understand what makes our school unique. No registration necessary.