The Radnor Township School District is evaluating a proposal that could bring a new public charter school to the former Valley Forge Military Academy (VFMA) campus, potentially reshaping future use of the historic property and impacting the surrounding Radnor real estate market.

The proposal comes from a group seeking approval to open the Valley Forge Public Service Academy Charter School, with a target opening date of fall 2026. The school would operate on the VFMA campus following the military academy’s announced closure. While the applicant group already has a leadership team and governing board in place, the charter cannot move forward without authorization from the local school board.

A Nontraditional Charter School Model

During a recent presentation to the school board, representatives outlined a vision for a nontraditional high school focused on public service careers, aiming to prepare students for roles in government, emergency services, and other civic professions. Supporters of the proposal emphasized that the model differs from prior charter applications tied to the campus.

According to school board president Liz Duffy, board members are approaching the review process with an open mind and a focus on information gathering as they consider the potential educational and community impact.

History of Prior Charter Proposals

This is not the first time a charter school has been proposed for the Valley Forge Military Academy property. The Radnor School Board has previously rejected two military-themed charter school proposals, citing concerns that those plans would effectively subsidize the private academy rather than serve an independent educational purpose.

Notably, district officials indicated that the current proposal has been under development since March 2025, predating the announcement that the military academy would close. That distinction may play a role in how the board evaluates the application.

What Happens Next

A public hearing scheduled for January 20 will allow the school board, district administration, and legal counsel to question the applicant group in greater detail. Under Pennsylvania charter school law, the Radnor Township School Board must render a decision by March 1.

Source: Philadelphia Inquirer; 12/17/2025