Frequently Asked Questions

Q: Where is Philly ALC located?

A: We currently operate across several sites in Philadelphia:

• Hawthorne Hub (South Philadelphia): Our city campus, home to Roots at Hawthorne, Workshop, and Philly ALC School (full-time program).

• Awbury Arboretum (Germantown/Mt. Airy): Home to Roots at Awbury, our outdoor play-based program.

• Natural Creativity Center (Germantown): Where we host our Drop-In Fridays.

Q: How do families get to Philly ALC?

A: Families come from all over the city and region. Some walk, bike, or carpool, while others take public transit. Our Hawthorne hub is close to multiple SEPTA bus lines and the Broad Street subway. Students who live in Philadelphia more than 1.5 miles from their program site may qualify for a free SEPTA Student Fare Card.

Q: Does Philly ALC provide meals?

A: We do not provide meals. Students bring their own packed lunches and snacks. A fridge, microwave, and kettle are available, and sometimes groups decide to cook or share food together.

Q: How much does it cost?

A: Philly ALC operates on a trust-based sliding scale. Families reflect on what they can sustainably contribute, using our calculator and guidance to help determine a fair amount. Some families give more to support access for others, some give less to make participation possible. See our Admissions & Tuition page for details.

Q: What’s the admissions process?

A: Admissions is a conversation-first process. Families start with an interest form, meet with a facilitator for an info session, and try out a program for a day. We reflect together before moving forward with enrollment. This ensures families know what self-directed education is all about and helps us confirm that we’re the right fit for each other.

Q: How is Philly ALC different from a traditional school?

A: We are not a school in the conventional sense. There are no grades, tests, or required classes. Instead, students design their own learning through play, projects, and exploration, supported by facilitators and peers. The city and the natural world are our classrooms.

Q: How does Philly ALC support neurodivergence?

A: We honor the unique ways people learn, process, and express themselves. There are no rigid schedules or standardized expectations here. Students are free to move their bodies, eat when hungry, take breaks when needed, and participate in ways that work for them. Our community agreements and shared practices make expectations clear and accessible to everyone.

Q: How are parents and caregivers involved?

A: Parents and caregivers are partners in this work. Caregivers can host offerings, join our Deschooling Parenting Circle, and participate in community events. Those who sign an enrollment agreement are also members of our Assembly — a decision-making body of caregivers, students, and staff that helps guide big-picture choices like tuition rates, budget, and calendar.

Q: Do you accept new students mid-year?

A: Yes — families can join mid-year as long as there’s space available. We recommend starting with a trial day and info session to make sure the transition feels smooth for both your child and the community.

Q: Do students have to attend full-time?

A: Not at all. Families can choose part-time programs (Roots, Workshop, Drop-In Fridays) or the Philly ALC School full-time membership, which weaves all of our programs into a 5-day-a-week community.