ABOUT HARBOR ACADEMY

The Harbor Academy is more than just a school—it’s a safe and inclusive harbor where LGBTQ+ and ally students can chart their course to success. Our innovative virtual high school combines top-notch academics with real-world experiences, giving students the tools to thrive academically, socially, and emotionally. Here, individuality is celebrated, creativity is encouraged, and every student feels seen, supported, and inspired.

With a blend of personalized learning, hands-on projects, and opportunities to engage with diverse communities, Harbor Academy transforms education into an adventure. Whether building leadership skills, exploring new passions, or preparing for college and beyond, students will find the perfect balance of challenge and support. At Harbor Academy, we’re not just preparing students for the future—we’re helping them shape it!

Origin Story

The Harbor Academy was founded in response to the increasingly hostile political and educational landscape that threatens the safety, inclusion, and future of LGBTQ+ students. Across the country, queer identities and topics are being weaponized in political battles, with efforts to cut federal funding for schools that support LGBTQ+ students, and LGBTQ+ topics and identities are being erased from public school curricula. The push to dismantle the Department of Education threatens essential protections for minority students, those with IEPs, and neurodivergent learners, putting countless young people at risk of losing the support and accommodations they need to thrive. In the face of these challenges, Dr. Joshua Covington and Mr. Taylor Young—two passionate LGBTQ+ advocates—founded The Harbor Academy to create a safe, dynamic, and affirming educational space where LGBTQ+ and ally students are not just accepted but celebrated. As a gay father raising two LGBTQ+ children, Dr. Covington has dedicated his career to empowering LGBTQ+ voices and creating inclusive leadership paradigms. Taylor, equally committed to fostering safe and affirming spaces, brings invaluable personal experience and expertise to this shared mission. Together, they have built Harbor Academy as a refuge from the political battles infiltrating public education, ensuring that every student has the opportunity to learn, grow, and navigate the world with confidence and pride.

Our Mission

At Harbor Academy, our mission is to provide an inclusive, empowering, and dynamic virtual learning environment for LGBTQ+ and ally students. We are dedicated to fostering academic excellence, personal growth, and real-world skills by offering an experience that combines a rigorous core curriculum, personalized learning paths, and regular opportunities to apply their skills in the real world. Our goal is to equip every student with the knowledge, confidence, and practical skills they need to thrive both academically and personally, while building a supportive community that celebrates diversity and individuality.

Our Vision

Harbor Academy envisions building a world where LGBTQ+ students are empowered to pursue their passions, lead with authenticity, and excel in both their education and their lives by focusing on a holistic education of academics, emotional growth, and practical skills.