Philadelphia Elementary Alternative School
Philadelphia, Pennsylvania
3121 West Hunting Park Avenue
Philadelphia, Pennsylvania 19132
(215) 223-8437
Fax: (215) 223-8906
Email Mary Beth Sembrot for more program information »
Email Joline Spencer for employment inquiries »
Program Summary
In partnership with the Philadelphia Area School District, Abraxas provides alternative education and social services for up to 195 students in grades 3, 4 and 5 throughout Philadelphia.
Located at 11 different sites at public schools throughout Philadelphia, the program focuses on academics while also addressing behavior and emotional issues the students are dealing with on a daily basis.
The program is intended to substantially improve academic achievement and attendance for students through academic, emotional and social support within a safe, nurturing and supportive school setting.
Abraxas staff, consisting of a certified teacher and two intervention specialists, work within each classroom to provide:
- Daily academic curriculum following the Philadelphia School District standards
- Individual and group sessions
- Family contacts including phone contacts, behavior sheets and daily journals
- Transportation is provided to students.
Referral Process
Students with qualified need are referred through the Philadelphia School District.
In 2004, the Philadelphia Elementary Alternative School began providing alternative education and social services to 3rd and 4th grade students, then expanded services in 2006 to include 5th grade students on the request of the district. The program is based on the concept of a school-within-a-school to allow greater flexibility in our services to the large Philadelphia School District. All of the service features enhance the students' opportunity to experience academic and behavior success, and ultimately have a successful transition back to their home school. The Philadelphia Elementary Alternative School strives to build strong relationships with the district offices, the schools in which they are housed and the community to ensure the success of our students and their families.
Frequently Asked Questions
How are students referred to this program?
All students are referred through the Office of Transition and Alternative Education within
Philadelphia School District. Home schools must make the initial referral to this office in order for
the request to be processed appropriately. Parents/guardians and other persons may not place
their child into the program on a random request basis.
How long is the student required to participate in the programs?
Students are expected to stay for a minimum of 18 weeks to maximize the impact of the program.
Can parents remove their children from the program at any time?
Once enrolled, the student must complete a minimum of 18 weeks or two marking periods and
successfully complete the program expectations to exit the program.
How will parents be involved in the child's education while they are in the program?
Parents/guardians are included in the written plan development and updates for their child. This
plan involves developing goals and actions for the student to accomplish while in the program. In
addition, we have an open door policy for parents to contact us at anytime with concerns,
communication regarding events or progress and general involvement and support of their child's
education.
Will students receive individualized support?
Yes, each student receives individualized support that includes a complete school orientation and
an assigned primary intervention specialist/personal development coach. This IS/PDC staff acts
as a mentor for the child and provides guidance and structure during the program as well as in
the child's transition back to his/her home school.
Will students receive a service plan or goals?
Yes, each student has a written plan which includes a social and academic summary. The plan
is reviewed with the family and any outside agencies involved with the student. Goals are also
established and reviewed regularly with each student.
Do you collaborate with outside agencies?
Yes, as necessary, special needs such as behavioral health support, family or individual
counseling and general assistance requests are considered for outside agency referrals. The
program can assist the student and family in locating services outside of the program and
establishing contacts.
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