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Interested in Enrolling Your Child at 
Northwood Academy?

APPLICATION PROCESS: All admissions applications for the 2027-2028 school year will be collected through Apply Philly Charter. Families will be notified if their names have been selected on February 8, 2027. All applicants after February 22, 2027, will be placed on our waitlist. Based on the acceptance rate, those who are on the waitlist will be notified if there are open spots available beginning in late March on a rolling basis. 

Students will be selected from the waitlist in the order they are placed by the Apply Philly process. Students currently enrolled do not need to complete the lottery process through Apply Philly Charter. All current students will need to complete an intent to Re-Enroll form.


Northwood Is Rooted in Tradition & Rising to Excellence

Guided by the Northwood NorthStar

Our work with students is guided by the Northwood NorthStar and our three pillars: Educate. Elevate. Innovate. The NorthStar captures who we are, what we believe, and where we are taking our student-scholars. For generations, the North Star has symbolized guidance and direction. At Northwood, it represents our commitment to ensuring that every student has a clear path to success—academically, socially, and personally.

Vision 2030

Vision 2030 is our roadmap for the next chapter of Northwood Academy Charter School (NACS). It sets out, in plain terms, what we are working to achieve for our students and families through 2030, how we will get there, and how we will measure whether we have succeeded. By 2030, Northwood Academy will demonstrate sustained academic growth and student belonging; maintain financial, legal, and facility stability; develop and retain excellent staff; govern through clear policy and evidence; and earn durable confidence from families and the community.

Rooted in Tradition, Rising to Excellence

Like a strong tree, our school is grounded in deep roots—our history, values, community, and commitment to students. These roots provide a strong foundation while inspiring us to continue growing, reaching higher, and preparing every student for a bright future. Rooted in Tradition honors the values and experiences that have shaped who we are. Rising to Excellence reflects our commitment to continuous growth, high expectations, innovation, and achievement. Together, our roots give us strength, and our aspirations move us upward. We honor where we have been, embrace where we are, and continually strive toward what we can become.

A Dedicated Staff Committed to Our Students

At the heart of our school is a dedicated team of educators and staff who share one unwavering commitment: our children. Each day, our staff works to create a welcoming, supportive, and engaging environment where every child is known, valued, challenged, and encouraged to reach their full potential. Through strong relationships, high expectations, and a genuine passion for education, we nurture not only academic growth but also confidence, character, curiosity, and a lifelong love of learning. Our educators understand that every child brings unique strengths, talents, and possibilities. By working together with students, families, and one another, we ensure that each child receives the guidance, encouragement, and opportunities they need to grow and succeed. Our children are at the center of everything we do—and our dedicated staff is committed to helping every child rise to excellence.

Graduates Prepared for the Future

Our 8th grade graduates leave us prepared to take the next step with confidence, purpose, and a strong foundation for success. Through rigorous academics, meaningful experiences, and opportunities to grow as leaders and individuals, our students develop the knowledge, skills, character, and resilience they need for the future. Whether continuing their journey in high school, pursuing college and career aspirations, or making a positive difference in their communities, our graduates are equipped to embrace new challenges, pursue their goals, and contribute meaningfully to the world around them. They leave us ready for high school—and prepared for everything that comes after.

We Celebrate Milestones

Every step forward is worth celebrating. From the first day of kindergarten to 8th grade graduation—and all the meaningful moments in between—we recognize the achievements, growth, and perseverance that make each student’s journey unique. We celebrate academic accomplishments, personal growth, leadership, creativity, character, and the everyday successes that build confidence and inspire students to keep reaching higher. These milestones remind us that education is not only about where students are going, but also about recognizing how far they have come. Every milestone tells a story of growth, and every achievement gives us another reason to celebrate.

OUR VISION 

Northwood Academy Charter School will be a model of educational excellence where all students thrive in a safe, inclusive, and engaging environment. We envision graduates who are confident, compassionate, and equipped with the knowledge and skills to lead and positively impact the world. 

OUR MISSION

Northwood Academy Charter School empowers every student to achieve academic excellence, develop strong character, and become responsible, lifelong learners. Through rigorous instruction, supportive relationships, and a commitment to equity, we prepare students to succeed in college, careers, and their communities.

ABOUT NORTHWOOD

Northwood Academy is a public, tuition-free charter school serving approximately 800 students in the Frankford section of Philadelphia. Northwood combines whole child learning and rigorous academics to prepare students for success in high school and beyond. For the 2026-2027 school year we are focusing on three words, each of which describes how we are going to ensure NACS is a great place to learn grow, and work: Educate - Elevate - Innovate.

  • Educate. Rigorous instruction and a strong academic foundation remain a top priority.
  • Elevate. We are intentionally building a culture rooted in respect, responsibility, leadership, and high expectations for every child.
  • Innovate. We prepare students for tomorrow’s world by encouraging creativity, collaboration, critical thinking, and responsible use of technology.