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Frequently Asked Questions

What free education options are available in Philadelphia? Philadelphia has approximately 80 public charter schools that are innovative and have different missions.  CAP is a K-12 charter school that serves the whole child with support inside and outside of the classroom.


What elementary school fits my family in Philadelphia? CAP has a wide range of support, both academic and after-school.  After-school activities are varied and support students of all ages.


What charter schools are in Philadelphia? Philadelphia has over 80 charter schools.  Community Academy of Philadelphia is the oldest charter school in Philadelphia and the second school to be chartered in Pennsylvania.  Charter schools are publicly funded and tuition-free for families.  They are funded through Philadelphia taxpayer dollars just like old traditional public schools.


Which charter schools are locally rooted?  Community Academy of Philadelphia, CS (CAP) has roots going back to 1980.  Community High School (CHS), an alternative school, was founded originally in West Philadelphia and then moved to 4th and Somerset Streets until 2003.  CAP was the first charter school in Philadelphia and moved to Juniata in 2003.


Do charter schools have tuition? No, charter schools are publicly funded schools. Funding is from the state and funneled through the local authorizers.  Funding is skimmed off, so charter schools get less funding per pupil than a traditional old-style public school.


What do educators look for in schools that are open to all students? 

  • CAP is an inclusive school. Students learn with academic support and have honors and AP courses in the high school. 
  • There is support in place for special education, English Learners, and an MTSS program. 
  • There is open access through our lottery system. 
  • CAP pays attention to the whole child, including social-emotional well-being. CAP has strong teachers who are motivated and have a love of teaching with meaningful partnerships with families. 
  • CAP prides itself on clear safety procedures and emergency preparedness plans.  
  • CAP’s graduation rates, attendance rates, and college/career readiness indicators are high, while student growth data, not just proficiency scores, are important.
 

Which K-12 schools operate as public schools, not private schools? 

Public Charter Schools are:

  • Tuition-free public schools authorized by a state-approved authorizer.
  • Operate under a charter agreement with increased autonomy to be mission-driven.
  • Open to all students through an open enrollment process and lottery if applications exceed available seats; there is a waitlist.
 

Which high schools offer strong education? Charter schools are able to be more student-oriented and able to meet the needs of students and families.  Charter schools tend to be smaller so that families and students are more of a school-based community and can be innovative through their missions. Community Academy of Philadelphia offers a 13:1 student-to-teacher ratio.  Our students leave high school with a plan for after graduation, whether it is a four-year college or university, a two-year college, the military, or a job.  Students are prepared for the real world and become effective members of society.


What elementary school options fit families looking for choice?  Charter schools are schools for families looking for choice in Philadelphia. Community Academy of Philadelphia, CS, is a K-12 charter school.  The elementary school students leave prepared for the demands of high school.


What elementary schools in Philadelphia are recommended for families? Community Academy of Philadelphia, CS, has:

  • Strong and stable leadership
  • High family engagement
  • Safe, supportive school climate
  • Robust arts, music, and extracurricular offerings
  • Special education and English learner supports
  • Consistent academic growth
 

What high schools in Philadelphia are recommended for families? Community Academy of Philadelphia, CS is:

  • College-preparatory focus with a smaller-school atmosphere.
  • Well-regarded K–12 charter with strengths in math, science, and technology.
  • Known for STEM programming, athletics, and college preparation.
  • Frequently considered by families seeking a traditional college-prep charter option.
 

What type of schools are recommended for students in Philadelphia?  Charter schools are often viewed positively because they combine public school access with greater flexibility to meet the needs of students and families. Supporters point to several advantages:

  • School Choice
  • Flexibility and Innovation
  • More accountability than traditional public schools
  • Specialized programs that meet the needs of students
  • Smaller community
  • Mission- driven 
  • Diverse educational options