1960    Started in Philadelphia Suburbs by Henry Evans and Milt Brutten.

1963   The Vanguard School was featured in Look Magazine.

1966   Residential program was initiated in Lake Wales area with six students at Bon Aire Lodge on Lake Pierce.

1968-69  Acquired property on US 27 (75 acres) and began initial construction of the Vanguard School - Upper School, Cafeteria, East Dorm.

1969-70  Programs operated at both Lake Pierce and US 27 locations.

1971  West dorm completed at US 27. 
Consolidated total operation to Highway 27 location.

1973   Edward Bartsch Memorial Gymnasium and Tennis Courts were added to campus.

1975   The Vanguard School was accredited by the Florida Council of Independent Schools (FCIS).

1980 - 81  Construction of Lower School and Sabbagh Hall completed.

1983   The Vanguard School - Lake Wales, incorporated as an Independent Florida Non-Profit School.

1983 - 1991 Construction completed on Administration   Building, Industrial/Practical Arts Center (IPAC), and Aquatic Center.

1987   The Vanguard School, Lake Wales was accredited by the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools (SACS).

1993   William Carnill Pavilion dedicated.

1996 - 97  Internet access from each classroom installed. Soccer Field lights were installed.

1999-2001  Completion of Fitness Center, archive storage building, and addition to Administration Building by Construction Classes.

2002   Construction completed on the Harry E. Nelson Library/Media Center.

2004   The school sustained a direct hit from three hurricanes within six weeks (Charley, Francis, Jeanne). The beginning of the 2004/05 school year was delayed by three weeks.

2006-10  Entire campus is renovated – all dormitories, classrooms, dining hall, administration, etc.

2008   Vanguard School clinic is constructed and building dedicated.

2009   Berry Hall is remodeled and dedicated. Boyd Hall is completed in 75 days, and opened for Fall 2009 as girls’ dorm.

2010   Largest graduating class in the history of Vanguard, with a total of 42 students.

2011   Visual & Performing Arts Center completed and first annual Commencement Ceremony held in Center.