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Enroll at Philly ALC
Enroll at Philly ALC
Joining Philly ALC is a two-way process: you're exploring whether we're the right fit for your family, and we're learning how to best support your child. We accept families year-round based on space availability, and the process typically takes three to four weeks from first contact to start date.
Philly ALC operates two programs: Philly ALC School, a full- and part-time self-directed learning program for ages 4 to 18, and Roots at Awbury, an outdoor nature-based program for ages 4 and up.
Admissions Process
Admissions Process
1. Do some research!
1. Do some research!
Philly ALC is not a typical school. Before reaching out, we invite you to spend a little time understanding what self-directed education actually looks like so that, when we talk, we're starting from a shared understanding.
A few places to start:
Book: Free to Learn by Peter Gray — borrow book, ebook, or audiobook from the Free Library of Philadelphia
Article: What is Self-Directed Education? — Alliance for Self-Directed Education
Video: Do Schools Kill Creativity? — Sir Ken Robinson, TED
Podcast: Exploring Unschooling — Pam Laricchia, Anna Brown, and Erika Ellis
2. Review tuition information
2. Review tuition information
We use a sliding-scale, pay-what-you-can model. Visit our Tuition page to learn more and use our tuition worksheet to find a contribution that works for your family.
3. Attend an info session
3. Attend an info session
The best way to experience Philly ALC is in person! Schedule a visit to join an upcoming open house or request a private tour.
4. Schedule trial days
4. Schedule trial days
The trial days allow the student to experience what it is like to be an ALC student and allows everyone to determine if Philly ALC is a good fit. After we receive and review your Enrollment Interest form, we will reach out to discuss dates and paperwork for your student’s visit.
5. Enroll
5. Enroll
We talk through what everyone observed. How did your child feel? What did our facilitators notice? This conversation is usually where the enrollment decision becomes clear. If it feels right for everyone, we'll send enrollment paperwork and settle on a start date together.
Ready to take the next step?
Ready to take the next step?
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