KEENE, N.H. (MyKeeneNow) Chris Smith and Liberty Ebright, co-founders of Granite Valley Prep, joined host Dan Mitchell on WKBK Radio’s Good Morning with Dan Mitchell today to share details about their upcoming public charter high school set to open this fall.

The pair outlined their vision for the school, which will offer a tuition-free, college-preparatory education with an emphasis on academics, communication and leadership. The school, scheduled to open in September 2025 with grades 9 through 11, aims to create a private school-like experience within a public charter model.

Ebright emphasized the school’s commitment to student independence and readiness for life beyond high school.

Granite Valley Prep has already received a $1.1 million federal grant to assist with startup costs and plans to serve about 75 students in its inaugural year. While the grant won’t cover ongoing costs such as salaries or building expenses, the school will rely on per-pupil state aid and additional fundraising to sustain its operations.

In terms of curriculum, the founders described a liberal arts foundation with both college-prep and honors-level courses, cumulative exams, and unique requirements in communication and leadership. Students will also complete a senior capstone project in which they teach underclassmen, further reinforcing leadership skills.

One of the more distinctive features discussed was the school’s no-phone policy designed to support a focused, respectful learning environment that encourages civil discourse and critical thinking.

With a strong emphasis on preparing students for post-secondary success—whether college, trade school, or the military—Granite Valley Prep is entering the education landscape at a time of growing interest in charter school alternatives across New Hampshire.

Enrollment interest is already strong, according to the founders, with about 50 students in the process of signing up. The school’s Keene location has yet to be officially announced, pending final lease arrangements.

Listen to the full interview: