Valley Forge Military Academy to Close After 97 Years of Service

WAYNE, Pa. (WPVI) — Valley Forge Military Academy announced it will close after the 2025-2026 academic year. The decision comes from the trustees who said the academy is no longer financially viable.

Officials cited several reasons for the closure. The rising costs of attending the boarding school have made it less affordable for many families, leading to a substantial drop in enrollment. Currently, there are about 90 cadets enrolled, a stark decline from 300 in 2011 when interim head of school Aaron Barkley joined.

Barkley explained, “Basically, our lifeblood is tuition. So, when our enrollment goes down, that does affect our ability to sustain and to operate.” He described the upcoming closure as a “difficult time” for students and the 20 staff members employed at the academy.

Founded nearly 100 years ago, the private institution has educated boys in grades seven through 12. The academy’s impact is highlighted by its notable alumni, including Maryland Governor Wes Moore and former NFL player Larry Fitzgerald.

In a statement about the academy’s closure, Moore reflected on his transformative experience there. He said, “I walked onto the Valley Forge campus as a twelve-year-old boy with a complicated past and a questionable future. I walked away as a graduate and an Army officer.”

Kareem Rosser, who received a scholarship to play polo at the academy, expressed disappointment about the closure. “I credit Valley Forge, really, with shaping me into the person and leader that I am today,” said Rosser, now executive vice president of the nonprofit Work to Ride.

Andrew Tuturice, a senior cadet, shared his perspective as the school prepares to shut down. “Valley Forge is one big family, if you will,” he noted. He feels lucky to be part of the final graduating class, saying, “I’m really glad I’ll be able to keep with Valley Forge history and traditions.”

It is important to note that the closure does not affect Valley Forge Military College, which shares the campus but will remain operational.