Experiential Learning
The Academy approaches every cadet’s education as a continuous and holistic learning journey. Learning through experience is not just a method, it is the centerpiece of everything we do, seamlessly integrating our five cornerstones: Academic Excellence, Leadership, Character Development, Personal Motivation, and Physical Development.
Our commitment to academic excellence is evident through small teacher-to-student ratios in all required subjects enhanced through learning collaborations with local, regional and national educational organizations. Cadets engage in real-world experiences that build character and leadership, provide structure and self-confidence, and enhance 21st Century Learning skills. Current offerings in and outside the classroom include JROTC, Outward Bound, the Corps of Cadets, and Founding Forward’s Spirit of America.
What is Experiential Learning?
Experiential learning is a hands-on approach to education where students learn by doing. Instead of just reading or listening to lectures, they actively engage in real-world experiences, reflect on them, and apply what they’ve learned.
Plain and simple, it’s Experiencing – Reflecting – Thinking – Acting.
Benefits of Experiential Learning
- Improves Retention – Hands-on activities help students remember concepts better.
- Builds Critical Thinking Skills – Encourages problem-solving and decision-making in real-world situations.
- Enhances Engagement – Learning becomes more interesting and meaningful.
- Develops Practical Skills – Prepares students for real-life careers by giving them hands-on experience.
- Encourages Adaptability – Students learn to navigate unpredictable challenges.
- Boosts Confidence – Applying knowledge in real situations builds self-assurance.
- Fosters Teamwork & Communication – Many experiential learning activities require collaboration.
- Connects Theory to Practice – Helps students see how classroom lessons apply in the real world.
Immersive Experiential Education Units
Beginning in the 2025-2026 school year, the Academy will introduce Immersive Experiential Education Units (IEEU). IEEU’s feature field-based learning experiences, expert speakers, panel discussions, problem-solving and team-building activities, and educational initiatives immersing cadets in interdisciplinary, topic-focused experiences grounded in Pennsylvania academic standards.
Outside the classroom, Academy cadets are personally motivated to engage in community service, discover adaptability and self-reliance, and build self-confidence through positive social interactions.
Graduation Requirements
To qualify for graduation from VFMA and earn the diploma, cadets must earn a minimum of 24 academic credits and complete the following graduation requirements. One credit is given for each year-long course and one-half credit for a semester course.
Cadets must satisfactorily complete courses in:
- English: 4.0 credits
- Mathematics: 4.0 credits
- Social Studies: 4.0 credits (One year each of United States History, and Government & Economics)
- Science: 4.0 credits (Two years lab science required)
- World Language: 2.0 credits (Two consecutive years of one language; three or more are recommended)
- Physical Education: 2.0 credits
- Health: 0.5 credits
- Electives: 3.5 credits minimum
