Education is not a one-size-fits-all endeavor.  Research has shown that students learn in different ways.  Also, while one student may thrive in a certain academic setting, another may not.  Residents in our area are fortunate in that they have a wide variety of educational resources to choose from, something to suit your particular student’s needs.  Northern Connection magazine is pleased to present our 9th Annual Back-to-School Issue, which showcases some of the outstanding education opportunities available in our region.

ACHIEVA

ACHIEVA is western Pennsylvania’s largest early intervention provider, with more than 50 years of experience with infants and toddlers, serving children with many diagnoses, including: hearing loss, speech delays, autism spectrum disorders, pervasive development disorders, Fragile X, Down syndrome, spina bifida and cerebral palsy. ACHIEVA Early Intervention provides speech therapy, occupational therapy, physical therapy movement therapy (conductive education), nutrition therapy, sensory integration (therapeutic listening), visual perception, augmentative communication, auditory/verbal and auditory/oral therapy, cochlear implant support as well as a FREE preschool readiness program. For more information, please call (412) 995-5000 or visit www.achieva.info.

The Agora Cyber Charter School

The Agora Cyber Charter School and K12 ignite minds of all kinds, bringing learning and possibility alive. As a public cyber school serving Pennsylvania students in kindergarten through twelfth grade with the K12 curriculum—as well as the support of state-certified teachers—Agora is tuition free.

The K12912 high school program used by Agora includes more than 90 courses to meet the needs of diverse learners, as well as up to four levels of world languages and electives that let students follow their own path to post-high school success—whether that’s in college or in the workforce.

Please visit the Agora Cyber Charter School online at K12.com/pa. Or, call us at 866.339.9910.

Aquinas Academy of Pittsburgh

As a college preparatory school for students in grades K-12, Aquinas Academy of Pittsburgh has emerged as a recognized leader in academic excellence and character formation.

We are committed to offering students the finest education possible in a truly Catholic environment. Mass is celebrated daily in our chapel and religion is taught as a core subject.

We offer a full range of competitive sports teams and creative extracurricular activities.
If you are looking for a Catholic academy with a top-flight, dedicated faculty, small class sizes, and a proven program for developing your child’s intellectual gifts and moral virtues, Aquinas Academy is for you.  For information, call 724-444-0722.

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Assumption School

The aim of Assumption School in Bellevue is to participate with the family and the entire community in the religious, intellectual, personal, social and physical development of each child.  Your child will have a safe learning environment; caring and supportive community; an emphasis on moral values and loving discipline; a “prayer partner” interactive program between upperclassmen and younger students.  Assumption School is more than just a great academic environment.  It is a place of living Christianity where your child will experience the love of God and embrace his or her Catholic faith.  Please call 412-761-7887 for information.

BC3

No Boundaries defines BC3.

The College offers 63 associate degree, career and transfer programs in liberal arts, business, nursing and allied health and technology. 

BC3 offers the absolute best value in education.  Students can obtain an associate’s degree before entering the workforce or transferring to a four-year college or university.

The College serves students at the Butler Main Campus (724-287-8711), BC3 @ Cranberry (724-772-5520), BC3 @ LindenPointe (724-346-2073) and now at our new facility – BC3 @ Lawrence Crossing (724-658-1938).  Online courses are also available. 

Go as far as you want in life.  Classes begin August 25.  Visit bc3.edu. 
BC3 – The Smart Place to Start. 

Butler Catholic School

Butler Catholic School offers a child-centered educational environment where Gospel values and Academic Excellence come together.  Our small class size offers student opportunities for individual attention, be it for extra help or challenges that require them to “go beyond” the ordinary curriculum.  Our Pre-School class size is limited to 15, with parent choice of morning or all day sessions for four year olds.  Full-day kindergarten introduces all students to every area of curriculum form daily Religion class to Spanish and computer classes.  Weekly class Liturgies help students grow in their relationship with God.  We offer a strong athletic program as well as a wide range of activities to enhance the basic curriculum.  A few openings are still available.  Please call 724-285-4276.

Commonwealth Connections Academy

Commonwealth Connections Academy is an accredited premier cyber school for students in grades K-12.  We provide all the tools students need to succeed; a proven curriculum that meets the rigorous standards of the best schools in the country, unique technology tools that allow parents to plan and implement every step of their child’s academic journey and the support of state-certified teachers who work from central locations under the direction of a principal. Students also receive a loaned computer, printer and internet subsidy. Best of all, there are no tuition or fees.
Connections Academy enrollment is happening now. To learn more, call
800-382-6019 or visit www.ConnectionsAcademy.com.

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The Glen Montessori School

The Glen Montessori School is pleased to announce the opening of a Montessori certified Infant Program in September.  The new Infant Program accepts children at 2 months and offers five, three or two full days of service to families.  The creation of the new program is in response to the many requests by families in the community. 
The Glen currently enrolls children in five classrooms and offers full and half-day preschool programs as well as full-day kindergarten.  Following the teachings of Maria Montessori, students of multi-ages are taught in the same classroom.  In a non-traditional Montessori classroom, teachers provide individualized, developmentally appropriate instruction that “follows the child.”  The new Infant Program promotes independence within an environment that maintains a balance between age-appropriate challenges and adult supervised support.  

Holy Spirit School

Holy Spirit School in Millvale offers a caring family atmosphere with small class sizes that enhance learning. The dedicated faculty and administration are committed to a quality faith-based education for all students. Tuition assistance and a uniform exchange are available, as are superior athletic and extra-curricular programs. Music, Physical Education, Art and Computer classes are part of each student’s education. In addition, extremely low-cost after-school care is available at the Boys & Girls Club; teachers walk students to the Club daily. Call the school at 412-821-4805 for an appointment for a tour and to register your child. All are welcome.

LaRoche College

A private, Catholic, co-educational college north of Pittsburgh, La Roche College welcomes students of all religions, ethnic origins and talents.  Undergraduates can choose from more than 50 majors, including the top 10 most popular majors among today’s college students.  La Roche combines educational experience with clubs, athletics, social outings, community volunteer activities, your spiritual well-being, and more.  At La Roche, we’re preparing you for life, and life goes way beyond the classroom.  Contact us at admissions@laroche.edu for more information. 

Laughlin Center

Laughlin Center is a non-profit helping families deal with issues related to learning through academic instruction, child and family counseling, speech-language therapy, and The Village Preschool.  Our licensed, accredited professional staff use an individualized approach to unlock each child’s potential. The NAEYC-accredited Village Preschool gives young children a solid start to their school experience in a nurturing, developmentally-appropriate atmosphere where it’s fun to learn; our early childhood educators understand that children need to learn through play and prepare preschoolers for more formal schooling by promoting self-esteem and developing their physical, social, emotional, and cognitive skills. Financial aid is available. Most major insurance accepted.  Visit www.laughlincenter.org.

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Montessori Children’s Community

Montessori Children’s Community located in the village of Sewickley provides children from Preschool through Sixth Grade with a innovative and collaborative learning environment with challenging academics. Our highly trained teaching staff allow children to learn as individuals, while encouraging independence, self motivation, and
respect for others and the environment. Organized in multi-age classrooms with low student to teacher ratios, MCC offers a morning and afternoon Children’s House Program (2 years 7 months to age 6), Lower Elementary (Grades 1 to 3) and Upper Elementary (Grades 4 to 6). In addition to the core curriculum, all children take Spanish, Music and Physical Education. The Elementary students also have Computer, Science Lab and Art Studio. For more information visit our website
www.montessorichildrenscommunity.org or call 412-741-8982.

Pace School

Pace School has announced the opening of a new program serving Butler and surrounding counties in September 2008.  Pace Learning Center is a private academic school option for students in grades K-5 located in Valencia, PA.

The Pace Learning Center program is designed to address the needs of children who are experiencing difficulty in their current educational setting due to social, emotional or behavioral challenges and who may be at risk for school failure.  The mission of this Pace School program is to provide educational and behavioral health services that enable any child to thrive.

For more information, please visit www.paceschool.org or contact Tricia Norris at tnorris@paceschool.org or 412-244-1900.

PA Cyber Charter

The PA Cyber Charter School is a public school that serves students from grades K – 12 by offering them a wide choice of accredited curricula and a choice between synchronous and asynchronous modes of delivery, using a school-provided computer in the home.

Every PA Cyber student receives a custom-designed course of study to meet his or her individual needs and abilities. In PA Cyber, parents and their child’s instructional supervisor play a vital role in keeping the student on task, motivated, and challenged.

From the quality and breadth of the course offerings, to the continuing development of computer learning tools, PA Cyber has become a leader and innovator in the field of Internet-based education.  PA Cyber serves thousands of students throughout Pennsylvania and is broadening the scope of its operations to meet the needs of families typically underserved by traditional public education.  With PA Cyber the possibilities are endless, and amazingly, it all began with one small school district that refused to settle for anything less than the best for its students.  Visit www.pacyber.org.

Penn Christian Academy

…GREAT LEADERS HAVE CHARACTER
“The key to transforming yourself from someone who understands leadership to a person who successfully leads in the real world is character.  Your character qualities activate and empower your leadership ability — or stand in the way of your success!” 
—John Maxwell

That’s why our vision at Penn Christian Academy is to develop young leaders and scholars who think and act from a Christian worldview.

By experiencing their God-given potential in a stellar academic program, Penn Christian Academy students learn and apply Biblical values and truths that will help them become the leaders of tomorrow.

The Pennsylvania Distance Learning Charter School

The Pennsylvania Distance Learning Charter School is a statewide public cyber charter school for grades K-12. PA Distance provides education to students in their own homes. This tuition-free program provides an educational experience that can’t be reproduced in a public classroom.

Parents and K-12 students receive a standards based curriculum, a computer with internet access, online tutors and educational assistance from Certified Highly Qualified Teachers. In addition, PA Distance offers both remediation and enrichment activities. So, if your child is struggling in math, they can get help; or if your child excels in science, they can do extra activities.

For more information, please visit www.PDLCS.net

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Pittsburgh Technical Institute

Pittsburgh Technical Institute offers associate degree and certificate programs in our schools of Business, Criminal Justice, Design, Healthcare and Technology - featuring hands-on instruction and workplace skills and, often including an industry internship.  Its Cranberry Center at the Regional Learning Alliance, just off the PA Turnpike in Cranberry Township, is the perfect choice for adults looking for short-term, focused education that’s flexible enough to mesh with busy lifestyles.  PTI maintains a second location, the North Fayette Campus in Oakdale.  Job placement and alumni brush-up classes are free to graduates through PTI’s Career Services department.  Classes start October and July.  www.pti.edu or 1-866-233-5556.

Providence Heights Alpha School

Wellness will be the theme this year as students of Providence Heights Alpha School return.  Through the generous donations of Alpha Parent and Athletic Associations, the children will begin the school year christening a new playground and athletic field surrounded by a walking track.  Adding to the extensive extracurricular activities offered, and consistent with the school’s commitment to wellness and promotion of physical fitness, Zumbatomic, a dance-based fitness activity will be offered.  Robotics Exploration will enhance the already successful Robotics Discovery program.  Other programs include: Theatre 360, martial arts, forensics, chess, dance, intramurals, and organized sports. With its tradition of academic excellence, Alpha School promises another success-filled school year.  Please call 412-366-4455 or visit www.alphaschool.org

Sewickley Acdemy

Founded in 1838, Sewickley Academy is Pittsburgh’s oldest independent school. A premier coeducational college-preparatory day school with excellent academic, arts, and athletic programs, Sewickley Academy enrolls 800 students in prekindergarten through grade 12. We attract students from 52 school districts in three states. All grades are located on our 16-acre campus, with 11 acres of athletic facilities nearby. Transportation to surrounding areas and financial aid are available. Sewickley Academy inspires and educates students to engage their hearts, minds and hands to cultivate their full individual and collective potential in the service of a greater good. For information, call 412-741-2230 or visit www.sewickley.org.

Saint Alexis Catholic School

Children are unique individuals created by God and deserve a warm, secure environment that promotes a sense of wonder and discovery in learning. We encourage children to develop spiritually, socially and intellectually as they grow. We value an inclusive environment that respects the distinctive qualities of others and individual aspect of themselves. We partner with parents to promote and enhance the child’s growth and development.

The Kindergarten Readiness Program offers a variety of activities in the areas of art, music, movement, dramatic play, science and ecology. We offer small class sizes and an excellent staff. Mondays through Wednesdays from 12:30-2:40 p.m. we offer the program for children who will turn five after September 1 and for four year olds who need a challenge. Our classroom experience is enriched by field trips and visitors. We also offer an extended day program. For information call 724-935-3940.

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St. Alphonsus School

St. Alphonsus School, located at the northern end of Wexford, is a large, Catholic, parish elementary school educating the Three Year Preschool child through the eighth grade student from the Wexford, Cranberry, Pine-Richland, Mars, and Seneca Valley communities.

A curriculum of academic excellence, a nurturing Catholic faith community, extra-curricular activities, and extended day opportunities comprise the offerings of St. Alphonsus School while promoting the development of the whole child. 

For additional information please visit our website at www.stals.org or call 724 935-1152.

St. Anthony School

St. Anthony School Programs is an inclusive education program for children of all faiths ages 5-21 with the primary diagnosis of autism, Down syndrome and other developmental delays.  Individualized education plans offer a combination of academics, moral formation and daily living skills, with vocational training emphasized at the secondary and post secondary levels.  We currently operate Resource Rooms, staffed by certified education teachers, at twelve school sites throughout the Diocese of Pittsburgh.  Each student of St. Anthony’s is encouraged to reach his/her fullest potential with the goal of living as independently as possible after graduation.  Contact: 724-940-9020.

St. Mary School

St. Mary School is one of the Diocese’s largest, Catholic, pre-kindergarten through 8th grade schools, accredited by the Middle States Association Colleges and Schools. The school has a values-based curriculum of academic and catechetical excellence. Core subjects are combined with daily prayer and weekly liturgies to offer enriching intellectual and spiritual growth. Test scores consistently exceed national and diocesan averages.

St. Mary School offers three-and-four-year-old pre-school programs, full and half day kindergarten, and an extended Day Program. Champion-caliber boys and girl’s athletics featuring football, basketball, cross-country, soccer and cheerleading are offered as well as bountiful extracurricular activities including: forensics, drama, student council, scouting, writing and art competitions and field trips.

Emphasis is placed on respect for life, respect for the unique character of each student, a welcoming environment for living and learning within the Catholic faith to help our children realize their talents and become the individuals God wishes them to be.
Please contact the school office for more information 412-486-7611. 

Saint Sebastian School

Saint Sebastian School in the North Hills has been guiding students in the development of spirituality, scholarship and service for more than 50 years. We offer an innovative education for pre-school, kindergarten and students in grades one through eight. The success of our curriculum can be measured by standardized test scores that are above the national average and among the highest in the Diocese of Pittsburgh. Students can participate in a wide range of athletic and extracurricular activities that cultivate talents and friendships. A Catholic education builds strong minds as well as a strong faith. Call us for a personal tour, 412-364-8999 ext. 8322. Learn more at www.saintsebastianparish.org.

Tender Care Learning Center

Tender Care Learning Center is a local, nonprofit preschool and child care center with 17 locations in the Pittsburgh area. Utilizing a developmentally appropriate curriculum, Tender Care Learning Center’s qualified and experienced teachers teach children in individualized groups from ages six weeks through school age. Our philosophy is to provide the same type and quality of experiences that children have at home and to enhance those experiences by capitalizing on young children’s remarkable abilities to learn.  We are accredited by NAEYC, and our Wexford location has a certified Pennsylvania Board of Education Kindergarten program. We look forward to having you visit our schools.  You can also check us out at www.earlyeducationpros.org  to learn more!

Wesley Spectrum Elementary Center

A child with special needs can have tremendous potential to learn and develop skills.  This is often masked because he or she may develop differently from other children and may not thrive in traditional school settings.  The Wesley Spectrum Elementary Center, located in Gibsonia, provides education and behavioral therapy for children diagnosed with Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) or other developmental delays.  Through early and global interventions, each child is helped to reach his/her highest level of independence and is guided in the development of cognitive, relational, sensory and motor skills in an environment that is adapted to be most conducive to the success of each child’s learning tasks.  Visit www.wesleyspectrum.org

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