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Chester Upland Excel Academy

With a small, supportive setting, Chester Upland Excel Academy offers an accelerated high school track focused on credit recovery and graduation readiness. Our program is focused on academic success, emotional wellness, and social growth of Chester Upland School District students.

School Info

Hours
Mon – Fri 7:30 a.m. to 2:30 p.m.

Grades
9-12

District
Chester Upland School District

  • School Calendar

    Learn more about important dates on our 2026-2027 school year calendar.
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Designed to help district high school students who are behind in credits, Chester Upland Excel Academy is an accelerated school focused on credit recovery and graduation readiness where students feel safe, seen, and supported.

Relationships are at the heart of our school. We get to know each student to identify their individual needs, challenges, and strengths, and then provide the care, counseling, and support needed to help them succeed in school—and in life.

In a smaller, more personal setting than a traditional high school can provide, Chester Upland Excel Academy is an accelerated program that provides Chester-Upland School District students with the opportunity to earn credits, making it possible for them to graduate.

By developing coping and problem-solving skills, Excel Academy students build emotional resilience, gain confidence, and recognize their own agency in realizing their full potential.

Related services offered at this school include counseling services, social work services, student government, transition and life skills program, and transportation services tailored to student needs.

Discover What Sets Chester Upland Excel Academy Apart

Our Learning Pathways

  • Accelerated: Credit Recovery and Graduation Readiness

    Accelerated: Credit Recovery and Graduation Readiness

    Students We Serve

    • Over-age or under-credited students at risk of dropping out of high school

    • Learners who have experienced chronic absences or academic disruption

    • Students motivated to catch up and graduate but in need of structured academic planning

    • Youth exploring post-secondary options who benefit from individualized guidance and support

    Alternative Education Student Profiles
  • Academic and Behavioral Support

    Academic and Behavioral Support

    We cultivate learning environments where instruction aligns with industry standards and district-specific curriculum requirements and ongoing support encourages prosocial behavior inside and outside the classroom.

  • Graduation and Postsecondary Readiness

    Graduation and Postsecondary Readiness

    No matter where a student’s unique learning journey leads, SESI helps prepare them for the next step—whether that’s graduation, vocational school, or job training.

  • Individualized Student Support

    Individualized Student Support

    We are passionate about fostering all facets of growth—academic, behavioral, and emotional—ensuring students are nurtured as a whole person and develop the skills they need to achieve rewarding futures.

  • Successful Transitions

    Successful Transitions

    Whether students are transitioning to a less restrictive environment, progressing toward graduation, or earning a certificate of completion, we help ensure they receive the individualized guidance and support they need to reach their full potential.

What People Are Saying

Across our schools and programs, we’re proud to partner with families, educators, and district leaders to support student success. Hear firsthand how our collaborative approach, experienced staff, and commitment to individualized education are making a lasting impact in classrooms and communities.

  • Communication with partner districts is excellent.

    The school exemplifies strong leadership and a commitment to excellence in education. The administration fosters a supportive and dynamic environment, ensuring that students and staff are well-supported. Their communication with partner districts is excellent, promoting effective collaboration and ensuring that every student’s needs are met. The school’s IEP writing process is thorough, with clear and actionable feedback that directly contributes to student growth. The school consistently delivers strong results, with students achieving their academic and behavioral goals.

    Andrew M. | Vice Principal

Events & Stories

  • 5 Strategies for Supporting Children with Behavioral Challenges During Summer Break

    Summer break is a time associated with being carefree, enjoying the sun and some down time, and limited structure. Families of…
    May 1, 2023
  • Empowering Students to Tackle Test Anxiety

    Test anxiety is normal, but it doesn’t have to hold you back. Learn proven strategies for managing stress, boosting focus, and achieving your academic goals.
    March 27, 2024
  • 5 Tips for Fostering a Positive Learning Environment for Students with Autism

    Creating a positive environment for students with autism is essential for their academic and social development. Learn more about the effective strategies that encourages positive social interactions between students and educators.
    April 4, 2024

FAQ’s

  • SESI schools serve students with a wide range of special education needs, including emotional, behavioral, developmental, and learning challenges. We support students who need a more structured, individualized educational environment to succeed. Our schools are designed to help K–12 students with IEPs (Individualized Education Programs) reach their academic, social, and emotional goals through personalized instruction, positive behavior supports, and a safe, supportive setting.

  • Parents can expect a safe, structured, and supportive learning environment where their child’s individual needs are understood and addressed. SESI schools partner closely with families and school districts to provide customized academic instruction, behavior support, and related services. Regular communication, goal setting, and progress monitoring ensure that families stay informed and engaged in their child’s success.

  • The next step is to contact us to schedule a tour of our school. This will give you the opportunity to meet our team, explore our facilities, and learn more about how we can support your child.

Contact Chester Upland Excel Academy