About

About the York Academy

YARCS studentsThe 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) curriculumThey 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, our students begin learning Spanish in kindergarten. From seventh grade on, it becomes a core subject required for everyone.  At the Upper School (grades 7-12), students also 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, 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). In addition, they 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 five charter elementary schools. 

In addition, 100% of the graduates in our first two classes (2022 & 2023) are continuing their education. One was a finalist in the National Merit Scholarship Competition. She received a full scholarship and studies engineering at Vanderbilt University. 

Other graduates attend Haverford College, Worcester Polytechnic Institute, Temple University, Bridgewater College, Allegheny College, and more. Two of our alumni received scholarships to play collegiate sports. One is on the Women's Golf Team at Wagner College and the other plays Men's Basketball at Florida Memorial University. Their majors range from pre-med, engineering and biology to animation, music technology and neuroscience. 

Their success is a result of hard work, the advantages of the IB curriculum, and the support of their teachers and families. York Academy graduates are resilient, confident leaders who will change the world!




An International Baccalaureate World School


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].