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Buehrle Academy

Buehrle Academy helps students get back on track. Our transitional program serves middle and high school students who’ve faced behavior challenges in a traditional school environment. With a structured, supportive environment focused on academics, behavior, and personal growth, your student can build the skills and confidence needed to return to their home school and thrive.

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School Info

Address

426 East Clay Street
Lancaster, PA 17602

Hours
Mon – Fri 8:00 a.m. to 2:55 p.m.

Grades
6-12

Phone
1-717-291-6232

District
Lancaster SD

  • School Calendar

    Learn more about important dates on our 2025-2026 school year calendar.
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Buehrle Academy helps students reset and refocus. We support middle and high school students referred by the School District of Lancaster due to behavioral challenges. Our structured environment is designed to meet each student where they are, providing consistent support and clear expectations.

Focused on academic growth, pro-social behavior, and emotional wellness our transitional program helps students succeed in school—and in life. We work closely with students and families to set clear goals for attendance, conduct, and coursework.

With the right strategies and supports, students can return to their home schools ready to engage and achieve. Our support continues after their transition back to their home school with consistent check-ins to ensure long-term success.

Whether your student needs short-term support or a fresh start, Buehrle Academy provides the tools, structure, and encouragement to help them take the next step forward with confidence.

Related services offered at this school include counseling services tailored to student needs.

Discover What Sets Buehrle Academy Apart

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Our Learning Pathways

  • Transitional: Re-engagement and Rebuilding

    Transitional: Re-engagement and Rebuilding

    Students We Serve

    • Students removed from traditional settings due to behavioral or disciplinary challenges

    • Learners behind in coursework or credits who need targeted academic support

    • Students who show leadership potential but struggle with self-management and school engagement

    • Those preparing to return to a less restrictive setting with improved academic and behavioral readiness

    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.

  • 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.

Meet Our Team

With deep experience and dedication to helping all students discover their full potential, our leaders provide an unwavering commitment to supporting our teachers, therapists, and other staff while fostering relationships with families and district partners.

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  • Joel was raised in Lancaster and attended Conestoga Valley High School where he played soccer. He earned a degree in liberal studies with a focus on biology from West Chester University and began a career in science. He later earned a teaching certificate in grades 4-8 with a concentration in math and science from Eastern University, and became a science teacher for grades 6-12 teaching courses in general science, physics, biology, and chemistry.

    In 2016, he became the academic coordinator and computer teacher at Buehrle Academy and returned to school at Grand Canyon University for his master’s degree in academic administration. After graduating, he became the principal and has been the academic lead since. He was promoted to executive director in 2022, and appreciates the strong connection the academy has with the Lancaster School District.

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
View All SESI Testimonials

Events & Stories

  • School Events and Stories

    Pretty in Pink: Buehrle Academy Unites for Breast Cancer Awareness
    This October, in honor of Breast Cancer Awareness Month, the staff at Buehrle Academy showed their support by engaging in…
    October 29, 2024
  • School Events and Stories

    Lancaster Area Schools Celebrate Hispanic Heritage Month
    To celebrate Hispanic Heritage Month, Buehrle Academy hosted a special event bringing students together to honor the rich history and…
    October 24, 2024

Resources

  • Articles

    Mel’s Progress at the High Road School of Hartford
    After two and a half years at the High Road School of Hartford, 14-year-old Mel is preparing to transition to a…
  • News

    SPECIALIZED EDUCATION SERVICES, INC. ANNOUNCES 2025 TEACHER AND STAFF OF THE YEAR WINNERS
    Fourth annual awards program celebrates team members’ dedication to students in special and alternative education settings PHILADELPHIA, May 29, 2025…
  • News

    Small Change, Big Impact: How Buehrle Students Turned Pennies into Possibility for Autism Awareness Month
    Every month, students at Buehrle Academy take on a new challenge not for grades, but for good. Students are invited to participate…

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 Buehrle Academy