History

In March 24, 1905, Charles D. Zirkle lay dying on a couch in his home near New Market, Virginia. He had just requested that his share of his father’s property be donated for the purpose of building a school for the instruction of Adventist youth.

This forty-two acre tract of land, then valued at $3,000, became the permanent home of Shenandoah Valley Academy.  Two years later, the construction of the academy began with the erection of the original main building. In 1911, the first four students were graduated. Since then, Shenandoah Valley Academy has graduated nearly 6,000 students.

Over the past 100 years, SVA has maintained a commitment to excellence. While the physical appearance of the campus has changed through the years, its purpose for existing has not. Today, as Charles Zirkle envisioned in 1905, Shenandoah Valley Academy is dedicated to providing a safe, quality Christian education for high-school age youth. Our primary purpose is to create the best possible environment for our students and staff to strengthen their love and service for Jesus Christ.