Featured Ministry: La Salle Academy
Location: Philadelphia, PA
Founded: 2003
Students: up to 90 boys and girls – grades 3-8
Graduate Support Program: 60 High School students and LSA Graduates
Staff: 14 faculty and staff
Mascot: The LSA Explorers
In 1999, St. Michael parish Pastor, Fr. Herb Sperger, had recently learned of the San Miguel model of schools and believed that such a progressive learning environment would thrive in his community, after having to close the parish’s grade school. Fr. Herb contacted the Christian Brothers and in turn, they contacted the Sisters of St. Joseph. Leaders and representatives met with Fr. Herb and agreed to study the feasibility of creating a school at 2nd and Jefferson. After several discussions and the formation of a strong lay Board of Trustees, the decision was made to move forward with a new school. In the spirit of St. John Baptist de La Salle and the San Miguel model, La Salle Academy was born.
La Salle Academy opened its doors in September 2003 to address the needs of underprivileged children of the Philadelphia area. La Salle Academy is an independent school owned, funded, and guided by a competent and compassionate Board of Trustees, established in the traditions of the Christian Brothers and the Sisters of Saint Joseph. Children in grades 3 through 8 who face significant financial, social, and academic challenges, and whose families believe that quality Catholic education is the key to changing their futures, are accepted each year. La Salle Academy combats the obstacles students face with a rigorous academic program grounded in faith and coupled with the social and academic supports and services necessary to ensure growth.
La Salle Academy provides small class sizes, an extended day and year, and the academic, social, and spiritual supports necessary for them to become successful learners. With a strong awareness of Christ in themselves and in others, La Salle Academy students and graduates are confident of their own self-worth and responsive to the communities in which they live. La Salle Academy’s Graduate Support Director works with students (graduates of LSA) through their high school years to keep them motivated and on the right track to graduate from high school. Currently 97% of LSA Graduates graduate from high school; and, in a city with a weak 51% high school graduation rate, La Salle Academy is making a huge impact.
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