Home > Find a School > KAPS Academy of Philadelphia

KAPS Academy of Philadelphia

Fostering a therapeutic classroom environment that emphasizes the social, emotional, and academic development of each child, KAPS Academy of Philadelphia supports students requiring intensive behavioral support. Our early elementary intervention program offers smaller classrooms and a nurturing environment where students shine both academically and socially.

School Info

Hours
Mon – Fri 8:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m.

Grades
K-8

District
Mastery Charter School

KAPS Academy of Philadelphia helps students improve attendance rates, gain access to community resources, show demonstrated growth in reading and math, and begin to enjoy going to school every day. We are committed to providing each student with personalized attention and care to help them thrive.

Based on nurturing a positive peer culture, KAPS utilizes a research-based behavioral modification model that cultivates pro-social behaviors and leadership skills through early interventions and tangible rewards. Our students earn field trips and other incentives and learn to embrace personal accountability for behavioral and academic success.

Our school provides students with:

    • Individualized instruction and progress monitoring
    • Academic rigor through data-driven instruction
    • Smaller classroom environments
    • Life skills development
    • Opportunities to foster social skills

By recognizing the unique value and talent of each student, building strong relationships with them, and celebrating their daily successes, we help students who haven’t been able to participate in a regular classroom setting thrive at school, at home, and in their communities.

Discover What Sets KAPS Academy of Philadelphia Apart

Our Learning Pathways

  • Early Behavioral: Elementary Therapeutic and Behavior Support

    Early Behavioral: Elementary Therapeutic and Behavior Support

    Students We Serve

    • Young learners with frequent emotional dysregulation or impulsive behaviors

    • Students struggling with peer and adult interactions in early learning settings

    • Children requiring intensive behavioral support in a therapeutic environment

    • Learners who benefit from consistent routines, social-emotional development, and a high staff-to-student ratio

    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.

  • Optimized Learning Environments​

    Optimized Learning Environments​

    Our special education classrooms are strategically designed to allow students to focus on building critical life and communication skills, while our grade-level classrooms help alternative education students make up lost ground and prepare for a transition back to district classrooms, and ultimately graduation.

  • 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.

  • Cara holds a Bachelor of Science in Early Childhood Education from West Chester University and a Master of Education with a Reading Specialist Certification from Chestnut Hill College. She began her career teaching first grade, where she developed a foundational understanding of young learners’ needs.

    In 2014, Cara transitioned to KAPS Academy as the academic coordinator, overseeing academic programs and ensuring educational excellence. Her dedication and leadership led to her appointment in 2019 as director of education and in 2024 as director of program management at KAPS Academy of Philadelphia. In this role, she manages and implements curricular and programmatic initiatives, overseeing strategic planning and program assessment to create an innovative educational framework.

    Cara is honored to serve in this capacity, working closely with colleagues to inspire and nurture future generations. Her journey reflects a deep commitment to excellence and leadership in the field of education.

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

  • A Science Lesson Using Slime

    ACI High School creating slime after a science lesson on liquid turning into solid with ingredients. Photographed: Ms. Amber Hawthorne…
    December 27, 2022
  • Achieve Academy East on The Jennifer Hudson Show

    We’re beyond proud of Stanley Alston, Team Lead, and Tiffany Davis, Teacher, for representing Achieve Academy East on The Jennifer Hudson Show! Stanley Alston,…
    February 21, 2025
  • A Veteran in the Classroom

    Between our 90 standalone day schools and 90-plus In-District Classroom partnerships across 17 states, SESI serves nearly 8,000 special education students every year—many of whom have been diagnosed with autism spectrum disorder (ASD).
    November 17, 2023

Resources

  • 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…
  • 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…
  • 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 KAPS Academy of Philadelphia