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Philadelphia Continuation Academy

Philadelphia Continuation Academy helps students get back on track. Our transitional program serves students in grades 9-12 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

100 West Duncannon Avenue
Philadelphia, PA 19120

Hours
Mon – Fri 8:00 a.m. to 3:00 p.m.

Grades
9-12

Phone
1-609-868-6529

District
School District of Philadelphia

Transit Routes
  • 8
  • J

  • School Calendar

    Learn more about important dates on our 2025-2026 school year calendar.
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Designed to help students reset and refocus, our school supports students in grades 9-12 who are referred by the School District of Philadelphia due to behavioral challenges. Our structured, respectful, and nurturing environment meets each student where they are, providing consistent support and clear expectations.

Our students learn to embrace personal accountability for behavioral and academic success in an environment that values safety, respect, teamwork, and high standards.

Philadelphia Continuation Academy provides our students with:

    • Academic rigor through data-driven instruction
    • Smaller classroom environments
    • Life skills development
    • Opportunities to foster social skills
    • Alignment with the district’s curriculum
    • Ongoing check-ins after transitioning to a less-restrictive environment

By recognizing the unique value and talent of each student, building strong relationships with them and their families, 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.

Related services offered at this school include counseling services, student government, and transportation services tailored to student needs.

Discover What Sets Philadelphia Continuation Academy Apart

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Our Learning Pathways

  • Transitional: Rebuilding and Re-engagement

    Transitional: Rebuilding and Re-engagement

    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.

  • 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.

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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  • Diana Abellard has served as an educator for the last decade in the city of Philadelphia. Originally from Queens, New York, Diana relocated to Philadelphia in 2001.

    There she earned her BA from Temple University following two Masters Degrees from Chestnut Hill College in the areas of Secondary Education, Special Education and Education Leadership.

    Diana has led the instructional charge as Principal and Instructional lead for various schools in the city and most recently, SESI Schools in the 2024- 2025 School Year.

    She currently serves as Director at Philadelphia Continuation Academy. Diana is dedicated to improving student outcomes through intentional programming that garners continuous development both academically and socially.

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

    Celebrating a Graduation Once Thought Out of Reach
    For many students at our accelerated high schools in Philadelphia, graduating once felt out of reach because of circumstances that…
    June 12, 2025
  • School Events and Stories

    Seniors Lead Lessons and Promote Autism Awareness
    At Philadelphia Continuation Academy, seniors are taking the lead in a meaningful, hands-on service-learning project that supports both their graduation requirements…
    May 2, 2025
  • School Events and Stories

    Olney Continuation Academy & Stetson Continuation Academy Celebrate Black History Month with Trip to Washington, D.C.
    A Journey Through Black History As part of the schools’ Black History Month observance, students from Olney Continuation Academy and…
    March 13, 2025

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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 Philadelphia Continuation Academy