This article was originally published in The Notebook. In August 2020, The Notebook became Chalkbeat Philadelphia.
These are full-time academic programs for students, ages 16-21, who have earned fewer than eight high school credits and who wish to return to school. Students can earn an official School District diploma. Schools can be contacted directly or through the Project U-Turn Hotline (215-400-6700).
Citywide, there are 900 students on waiting lists for accelerated schools. Two more schools will open in 2008. The six schools currently open include:
Accelerated Learning Academy – North
4224 N. Front Street
Philadelphia, PA 19140
215-754-1370
Contact: Bonnie Taylor
Opened in 2006, 150 students
Accelerated Learning Academy – Southern
2101 S. Broad Street
Philadelphia, PA 19148
215-271-5902
Contact: Joyce Velasquez
Opened in 2007, 150 students
Accelerated Learning Academy – Southwest
6404 Elmwood Avenue
Philadelphia, PA 19143
215-727-1212
Contact: Steve Marchion
Opened in 2007, 150 students
Career and Academic Development Institute
1225 Vine Street
Philadelphia, PA 19107
215-567-0820
Contact: Indira Lawson
Opened in 2004, 150 students
Excel Academy
6600 Bustleton Avenue
Philadelphia, PA 19149
215-332-3101
Contact: Angela Gregory
Opened in 2004, 250 students
Fairhill Community High School
2820 N. 4th Street
Philadelphia, PA 19133
215-423-1776
Contact: Marcus Delgado
Opened in 2004, 225 students