The Stone Independent School and Solvit Academy Announce Merger, Creating a First-Of-Its Kind K–12 Education Experience in Lancaster
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE / 9.30.25
This merger builds on shared commitment to problem-based, student-centered 21st century learning.
LANCASTER, PA — The Stone Independent School and Solvit Academy are excited to announce a strategic merger that will bring together Lancaster’s most innovative educational communities, creating a unified K–12 institution unlike anything else in Pennsylvania. Beginning July 1, 2026, the combined school will operate under The Stone Independent School name, offering families a complete, progressive educational pathway from kindergarten through 12th grade. In an era of standardized curriculum and standardized testing, the new K-12 Stone Independent School will provide students with an education that fosters intellectual agility, empowering them to thrive across disciplines, industries, and global contexts.
The partnership builds on years of shared vision and a belief that students learn best by doing. Solvit’s strength in mixed-age, experiential classrooms and Stone’s expertise in problem-based, interdisciplinary education come together to form a seamless experience where students are known deeply, are seen and cared for, are challenged fully, are empowered to think critically about the world around them.
“Lancaster has been a laboratory for educational innovation for nearly three centuries.
This merger marks a remarkable new chapter in that story. By uniting these two schools with such strong and complementary philosophies, we’re creating a unique K–12 environment where students can pursue their passions, develop their voices, and prepare to make an impact in the world.”
Mike Simpson
Head of School
The unified school will be built around an educational approach that puts research and design at the center of the learning journey. From their earliest years, students will learn to ask open-ended questions, pursue evidence across disciplines, and use their discoveries to create meaningful work for authentic audiences beyond the classroom. This model prepares students not only for success in school, but for a lifetime of learning, growth, and leadership.
All current Solvit Academy teachers will be retained and transition to The Stone Independent School, ensuring continuity of relationships and instructional approach. A joint transition committee, composed of board members and administrators from both schools, will oversee integration and planning.
“Uniting our communities ensures we preserve what makes each school special while expanding opportunities for every learner.
I am thrilled to continue this work as a member of The Stone Independent School’s Board of Trustees and to help build a truly 21st century model of education.”
Melissa Groff
Owner and Head of School at Solvit Academy
Location
For the immediate future, both campuses will remain operational: the Lower School (K–6) at 354 N. Prince Street, and the Middle and Upper Schools (7–12) at 480 New Holland Avenue. Looking ahead, the unified Stone community will begin planning for a state-of-the-art campus in Lancaster. The envisioned facility will include expanded classrooms, athletic fields, and a dedicated theater, designed to support robust programs in academics, athletics, and the arts.
This merger is about creating a school that meets the moment.
Our students will graduate ready not just to succeed in the world, but to shape it.
MIKE SIMPSON
Head of School
Enrollment begins now.
For more information about enrollment, the merger, or The Stone Independent School’s approach to learning, visit:
Assistant Head of School Abby Kirchner’s Fall Letter on Stone’s Education Model and Vision of Learning: Why Research and Design Matters
“Building critical thinkers and problem-solvers from the very beginning.”
About The Stone Independent School
The Stone Independent School is a progressive, problem-based middle and high school in Lancaster, PA. Stone empowers students to co-create their education through interdisciplinary, inquiry-driven learning that emphasizes problem-solving, creativity, and real-world application.
About Solvit Academy
Founded in Lancaster, PA, Solvit Academy is a K–8 program dedicated to mixed-age, experiential classrooms where students develop independence, collaboration skills, and the confidence to thrive in a rapidly changing world.
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Media Contact:
Mike Simpson
Head of School, The Stone Independent School
simpsonm@stoneindependent.org | (717) 468-0019