Valley Forge Military Academy to Close Permanently

Valley Forge Military Academy, steeped in history, is set to close its doors for good due to rising costs and decreasing enrollment. The announcement was made on Tuesday, stating that the academy will cease operations following the end of the 2025-2026 academic year.

The board determined that continuing the school was “no longer feasible.” The academy has around 160 students in grades 7-12, with the current 98th cadet class being the last to graduate. “For nearly 100 years, we’ve upheld a strong tradition of fostering resilience in young men,” remarked the chairman in the announcement. He added that despite the closure, the spirit of the academy would live on through its many graduates, supporters, and faculty.

One of the driving factors behind this decision appears to be the growing financial burden of boarding schools, making them less accessible for families. Tuition at Valley Forge Military Academy was approximately $49,000 annually.

To assist with the transition, the board promised to help cadets find placements in other schools. Notably, while the military academy will close, Valley Forge Military College will continue to operate.

The academy’s alumni roster includes noteworthy figures such as General Norman Schwarzkopf and NFL wide receiver Larry Fitzgerald. The chairman expressed gratitude to the faculty, staff, and alumni, emphasizing the importance of making the most of the remaining school year for those commissioned to develop leadership skills.

On another note, Defense Secretary Pete Hegses has been attempting to bolster military and air force recruitment efforts, a response some critics say stems from concerns over declining interest in military service during the previous administration.

As of now, the Pentagon has refrained from commenting on the closure.