OUR MISSION

YESPhilly is a 501(c)3 non-profit organization whose mission is to develop a broad base of opportunities for Philadelphia’s out-of-school youth to prepare them to become successful, self-sufficient adults. With the support of local organizations, universities, and foundations, we have developed an educational model that prepares students for college and careers by tying together personal development, media arts and technology skills, and academic instruction to meet Pennsylvania standards for a high school diploma.

our students

We serve over one hundred and seventy-five young adults per year, ages 16-21, who left Philadelphia high schools, or are on the verge of leaving. Most of our students live in Philadelphia’s most high poverty neighborhoods, and many are pregnant or parenting, or have been involved in the justice system. Many of them have experienced violence, abuse, and neglect and have been allowed to miss their education. Regardless of circumstance, YESPhilly provides fun and engaging experiences that challenge society’s preconceived notions of what it means to be an opportunity youth.

the yesphilly way

We create a nurturing, safe learning environment by helping students feel secure, rather than monitored; appreciated rather than feared.  At our school, we champion a model of restorative justice to welcome students to open their hearts and minds, so they can learn and grow – and we provide a safe place with intentional strategies for them to do so.

Our board

YESPhilly is currently accepting applications from candidates interested in joining our board!

Click here for more details, info, and application.

Our Staff

FAQs

What is the YESPhilly educational model?

YESPhilly has classes in all of the subjects required for a high school diploma by the School District of Philadelphia. Our school is designed to help students become confident and competent lifelong learners while preparing them to succeed in post-secondary education and careers.  Classes are small and are designed so students can work at their instructional level and get the individual attention they need. YESPhilly classes are project-based and use the Summit Learning Platform, a blended instructional model that focuses on student collaborative projects and core content knowledge. Media arts and technology skills are infused throughout the school with several levels of media and technology classes. Our school year is divided into four terms and a summer cycle. New students can enroll at the beginning of each term and students, who have earned all required credits, graduate at the end of each term.

How does YESPhilly support postsecondary success?

YESPhilly students earn high school diplomas, enroll in college, and prepare for work and careers.  We  start preparing them for college and careers as soon as they arrive and we continue to provide support after they graduate. Every YESPhilly student sets their own goals, and creates a student development plan that gives them control over what they do, and responsibility for their own progress. While at YESPhilly, students go on college tours, learn how to apply to college and how to get financial aid. Students also complete PA Career Ready skills in Naviance, learn how to prepare their resume, and develop the habits and skills they will need to succeed in college and careers– responsibility, persistence, initiative, teamwork and goal-setting.

does Yesphilly provide any additional supports?

YESPhilly counselors help every student to make sure they receive the social and emotional supports and resources they need to succeed at YESPhilly and after graduation. Counselors work with each student individually, in groups, and with their families to address barriers that interfere with their wellbeing and success.

ContacT us

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