1. What grade levels does Wilkes-Barre Academy serve?

Wilkes-Barre Academy is a nonprofit private school serving students in Kindergarten through 8th grade. Our building is also home to our partner preschool program, Small Wonders Preschool, which serves children from 6 weeks old through Pre-K (age 4).

2. Is bus transportation provided?

Bus transportation is free through your school district. Generally, transportation is available for students who live within a 10-mile radius of the school. Families who live outside of the eligible transportation area are responsible for providing transportation to and from school. Students currently bus to and from Wilkes-Barre Township, Wyoming, Pittston, Dallas, Crestwood, Wyoming Valley West, Nanticoke, and Hanover Township. 

3. Does Wilkes-Barre Academy offer care outside of regular school hours?

Yes. We offer both before-school and after-school care for Wilkes-Barre Academy students. Both are supervised by our staff who students spend time with daily.  

  • Before-school care: Begins at 6:30 a.m – 8:15 a.m.
  • After-school care: Available 3:30 – 5:30 p.m. 

*Before and After care = includes time before and after school and non-school days, early dismissal days, and delay days. 

Please contact our office for more information. 

4. What specials do students have?

Students receive weekly instruction in:

Art, Music, Physical Education, Technology, Library, and Spanish

Additionally our middle school receives: Economics, Health, Science Lab, Speech, Latin, Word Study, Media and Journalism.

5. What is the tuition?

For the 2026–2027 school year, tuition is $7,150.

6. Is tuition assistance available?

Yes. Tuition assistance is available through programs such as EITC, ELRC, and our Voucher Program. Additional tuition reduction opportunities may also be available. Please contact the school for more information.

7. What is the admission process? 

First, we schedule a school tour. Then, we test students to evaluate them. The test is based on current grade level to determine if the student is prepared for our curriculum, and/or to determine if there is subject matter that may need extra attention in order to enroll. Lastly, we complete admissions paperwork. 

8. Do Pennsylvania private schools follow the same curriculum as public schools?

No. Private schools in Pennsylvania have the flexibility to design and implement their own curricula. However, as a licensed private academic school, we must ensure their educational programs meet applicable state standards and requirements, helping prepare students for successful transitions to high school, college, and beyond.

Our goal is to challenge students through an advanced and engaging curriculum while also developing the essential skills they need to become successful, independent learners. In addition to building a strong academic foundation, we place particular emphasis on organization, planning, time management, effective study habits, and personal responsibility. Additionally we believe purposeful study and homework reinforce concepts introduced each day, strengthen students’ knowledge base, and help them develop the skills and confidence needed for continued academic success.

9. Are private school teachers required to be state-certified?

As a licensed private academic school, teachers at Wilkes-Barre Academy are state certified, and have an approved education director enduring high professional standards.  

10. Do private schools have to follow state attendance laws?


Yes. Private schools must meet Pennsylvania’s compulsory school attendance requirements, which dictate a minimum of 180 days of instruction or an equivalent number of hours.