About Drexel Neumann Academy
Founded in 2007, Drexel Neumann Academy is an independent Catholic elementary school serving children in Chester, Pennsylvania. In a safe, multicultural environment rooted in the Franciscan spirit, DNA combines challenging academics, individualized support and opportunities that prepare students for success in high school and beyond.
Our Mission
Empowered by the witness and lives of St. Katharine Drexel and St. John Neumann, we are committed to providing a Catholic elementary school education in a multicultural environment to the children of Chester. Franciscan spiritu- ality and diversified instruction will promote an environment, which recognizes the giftedness of each child.
Our History
In 2005, St. Katharine Drexel School was scheduled to close because of financial difficulties and declining enrollment. Saint Katharine Drexel was the last Catholic school in the city of Chester, Pennsylvania. Upon hearing of this news, the Archdiocese of Philadelphia, Neumann University, the Sisters of St. Francis of Philadelphia and St. Katharine Drexel Parish partnered and proposed options for providing education in a safe environment to the children of Chester. Collaboration and discussion brought forth the idea of creating Drexel Neumann Academy (DNA) an independent, Catholic school with a Franciscan spirit. In September of 2007, DNA opened their doors to the community.
The DNA Experience
DNA strives to foster the moral, spiritual, intellectual, cultural, emotional, social, and physical development of each student. The school’s President and Principal provide leadership and administration in Catholic education, communication of vision and mission, strategic planning and program development. Complementing their efforts is a team of dedicated, resourceful, and creative teachers, supported and guided by an engaged Board of Directors.
DNA offers students a safe environment to learn and a challenging curriculum, which will prepare them not only for their academic future, but also for life. DNA is giving the children of Chester the opportunity to be models of peacemaking in a violent environment and the educational foundation for a bright and successful future.
Admittance is offered to any child who resides in the city of Chester, there is no discrimination based on religion, financial resources, or race. Over 85% of the 181 students are non-Catholic and over 90% require tuition assistance. Class sizes average 20 students per grade.
An Investment in Every Student
Drexel Neumann Academy provides students with additional time, individualized support, innovative learning opportunities and a values-centered education designed to prepare them for success in high school and beyond.
Individualized Academic Support
Small class sizes and a strong commitment to education allow our teachers to provide students with meaningful attention and support. Through collaborative partnerships with Neumann University and Widener University, students also benefit from additional tutoring opportunities.
High School Preparation & Success
DNA prepares graduates to continue their education and succeed at the secondary level. One hundred percent of DNA graduates pursue a high school education, with many becoming honor students. Through the Terryglass Foundation, selected eighth-grade students are also awarded full four-year scholarships to Catholic high schools each year.
Expanded Learning & Technology
DNA’s extended academic year, which runs from September through July, gives students more time to learn and grow. Students also benefit from Chromebooks in the classroom, an enhanced technology program, a science lab, and hands-on experiences in 3D printing, robotics and drone technology.
Franciscan Values
Students are introduced to Franciscan values that encourage service, nonviolence, peacemaking and respect for the giftedness of every person. These principles help students grow academically, socially and spiritually while becoming thoughtful and compassionate members of their communities.