Edwin M. Stanton School
Edwin M. Stanton School, situated in the Graduate Hospital neighborhood of South Philadelphia, is a public elementary school serving students from PreKindergarten through 8th grade. As part of the School District of Philadelphia, Stanton is committed to providing a high-quality education in a safe and nurturing environment.

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Principals Message
Welcome to Edwin M. Stanton School!
Dear Stanton Families,
At Edwin M. Stanton School, we believe that education is a shared journey—one that brings together students, families, staff, and community partners in meaningful ways. Together, we create a learning environment that is creative, diverse, and inclusive, where every child feels seen, supported, and inspired to grow.
We are committed to removing barriers and ensuring that each student has what they need to thrive. Whether in the classroom, through the arts, or in the broader community, we work every day to help our students discover their strengths and reach their full potential.
As a PreK–8 school rooted in the heart of our community, we focus on nurturing confident, lifelong learners. Our approach is grounded in three core beliefs:
- Strong academics help students think deeply, solve problems, and achieve their goals.
- Civic learning encourages students to understand their world and take an active role in it.
- The arts provide space for creativity, self-expression, and connection.
We are proud to be a place where curiosity is encouraged, voices are valued, and every child is prepared for what comes next.
Thank you for being part of the Stanton community. We look forward to partnering with you in the year ahead.
With warmth and appreciation,
Stacey Burnley
Principal


Our School
Located at the historic corner of 17th and Christian Streets, Edwin M. Stanton School is a vibrant PreK–8 school in The School District of Philadelphia, deeply rooted in its community. Stanton is defined by a culture of excellence, supported by a dedicated team of educators, staff, administrators, and community partners who go above and beyond each day to ensure every student feels supported, challenged, and empowered to succeed.
Attendance & Bell Schedule
Bell Schedule
- Admission: 8:55-9:00
- Breakfast/Morning Meeting: 9:00-9:30
- 1st Period: 9:30-10:15
- 2nd Period: 10:15-11:00
- 3rd Period: 11:00-11:45
- 4th Period: 11:45-12:30 (1st Lunch)
- 5th Period: 12:30-1:15 (2nd Lunch)
- 6th Period: 1:15-2:00 (3rd Lunch)
- 7th Period: 2:00-2:45
- 8th Period: 2:45-3:30
- Dismissal: 3:30-3:39
For details on early dismissals, inclement weather procedures, delayed openings, and emergency closings, please refer to the Parent & Student Handbook.
Specific student schedules may differ depending on class sections.
Attendance
Attendance matters! The consistency for both students and teachers is critical to success. Consequences can come from excessive or unexcused absences.
After-School & Summer Programming
Sunrise of Philadelphia
Through our partnership with Sunrise of Philadelphia, Stanton provides free before- and after-school care and enrichment programming for more than 60 students, including academic support, STEM activities, homework help, and social-emotional learning opportunities.
➜ Learn more
Out-of-School Time (OST)
Out-of-School Time (OST) is the time that a child or youth spends in after school or summer programming. In Philadelphia, OST programs are provided for young people in grades K through 12.
➜ Learn more and find a program near you
Summer Programs
Explore free summer programs from the School District of Philadelphia that keep students learning, engaged, and prepared for success.
➜ Learn more about opportunities for your student over the summer.
Arts, Music, Dance
- Dance Club
- African Drum Club
- Rock Band
- Running Club
- Penn Relays participation
- Orchestra
- Chorus
- Poetry program through Writing Matters
- Student-published books
Civic Engagement
Stanton’s School Government and Constitution
In partnership with The Rendell Center for Civics and Civic Engagement, Stanton has established a three-branch student government modeled after the structure of the United States government.
The Executive Branch consists of a student president, vice president, secretary, and treasurer. The Legislative Branch includes a student House of Representatives and a teacher-based Senate. The Judicial Branch is represented by the school’s administration.
Together, these branches provide students with hands-on experience in leadership, civic responsibility, collaboration, and the democratic process. Students propose, debate, and pass bills in a structure that mirrors government at the federal level. This work is guided by Stanton’s Bill of Rights and Responsibilities.
Stanton’s Bill of Rights and Responsibilities
With support from The Rendell Center for Civics and Civic Engagement, Stanton students and staff collaboratively developed the Stanton Bill of Rights and Responsibilities. Created through a partnership between Student Government, school administration, and the Rendell Center, the document helps foster a school culture rooted in respect, responsibility, student voice, and civic engagement.
Community Partnerships
- The Clay Studio
- Dance Artist-in-Residence Program
- Percussion Artist-in-Residence Program
- Dramatic Arts Artist-in-Residence Program
- Band Artist-in-Residence Program
- Strings Artist-in-Residence Program
- Arden Theatre Company
- Bainbridge House
- Creative and Performing Arts High School (CAPA)
- The Academy at Palumbo
- The Philadelphia Orchestra
- Settlement Music School
- Opera Philadelphia
- Writing Matters
- The Rock School for Dance Education
- DesignPhiladelphia
- Shakespeare Program through Bryn Mawr College
- Spanish Exploradoras
Our History
Edwin M. Stanton School is named in honor of Edwin McMasters Stanton, who served as U.S. Secretary of War during President Abraham Lincoln’s administration. Stanton was known for his leadership, dedication to public service, and commitment to preserving the Union during the Civil War.
The current school building was designed by noted Philadelphia school architect Irwin T. Catharine and constructed in 1925–1926. Because of its architectural and historical significance, the building was added to the National Register of Historic Places in 1988.
For nearly a century, Stanton has been an important part of the South Philadelphia community, educating generations of students and serving as a neighborhood gathering place. The school continues to honor its history while preparing students for success through academic excellence, community engagement, and a commitment to lifelong learning.
Points of Pride
- 2024 Robotics Team competed in the World Championships
- School Nurse Rookie of the Year Award recipient
- Featured as The Philadelphia Tribune School of the Week
- Three teachers recognized as Lindback Teacher Award recipients
- Students participate in a robust Digital Literacy curriculum
- More than 80 students participate in the Settlement Music Orchestra program
- More than 25 years of partnership with Bainbridge House providing African Drum & Dance programming
- Stanton Partners raise $70,000–$90,000 annually to support and enhance school programming
- Donato Ezzio Service Award recipient
- 2016 Lindback Distinguished Principal Award recipient
Sports
Participation in sports requires a completed physical form signed by a doctor.
Available Sports
- Flag football
- Track
- Volleyball
➜ Find Your Team Schedule at arbiterlive.com
Elementary Intramural Sports
Grades K-5 learn fundamentals, good sportsmanship, and team-building skills.
Middle Grades Conference(MGC)
Grades 6-8 are taught the benefits of interscholastic athletics while learning discipline, structure, and competition.
➜ Learn more about MGC
Student Handbook & Policies
➜ Edwin M. Stanton School Parent & Student Handbook
➜ District – Student Code of Conduct & Discipline Process
Policies
- Attendance
- Dress Code – Uniforms
- Cell Phone Policy
- Report Bullying, Harassment, or Discrimination
- Student Health & Safety
School Improvement Plan – Title I Documents
➜ View your school’s School Improvement Plan
➜ Request a translation of your school’s plan
If you do not have web access or need additional assistance, please contact planningsupports@philasd.org for support.
Annual Notification of Rights under FERPA
The School District of Philadelphia is required to annually notify parents and eligible students of their rights under the Family Educational Rights and Privacy Act (FERPA). These rights include the right to inspect and review education records, request amendments, consent to disclosures, and file a complaint.
➜ View the Annual FERPA Notice
For questions, contact the Office of Student Rights and Responsibilities.
Uniform/Dress Code
Students are expected to wear appropriate clothing at all times, including shirts, pants, shorts, dresses, skirts, and proper footwear.
Shirt/Top: Navy tops or vintage Stanton t-shirts
Pants/Bottoms: Tan/khaki
Footwear: Sneakers or safe shoes
Not Permitted: Hoodies
If a student violates the dress code:
- A parent/guardian may be contacted
- The school may provide loaner clothing, or request a change of clothes be brought to school
➜ See our uniform policy for more details.

At A Glance
Principal
Ms. Stacey Burnley
Phone: 215-400-7960
Fax: 215-400-7961
Address:
901 S. 17th Street
Philadelphia, PA 19146
➜ SEPTA – Trip Planner
Grade Levels: PreK-8
Learning Network: 4
Student Enrollment: 316
➜ School Data & Statistics
Calendar
School Event Calendar
We maintain a school calendar that highlights important events such as parent-teacher conferences, school performances, testing dates, and more.
District Academic Calendar
The School District of Philadelphia provides an official academic calendar each year that includes start and end dates, holidays, report card conferences, and more.
Academics
At Edwin M. Stanton School, we offer a strong, supportive learning environment where students thrive academically and socially. Our well-rounded curriculum includes reading, math, science, and social studies—alongside music, art, physical education, and technology to keep learning engaging and fun.
We meet the needs of every learner through personalized support services like reading intervention, counseling, and speech therapy. Our goal is to help every student grow into a confident, curious, and successful learner.
View our full academic overview to learn more about our curriculum and academic programs.
Digital Literacy
Digital Literacy equips students with essential skills to navigate the ever-expanding digital landscape, enabling them to find information, communicate effectively, and stay safe online. Learn more.
Middle Grades Math
Middle Grades Math offers advanced math learners a challenging curriculum to further their path towards success in algebra, geometry, and more. This accelerated pathway will set students up to take Algebra by eighth grade. Learn more.
Multilingual Curriculum & Programs - Language Access Support Services - ESOL services
The School District of Philadelphia provides a variety of programs and services in many languages to support our multilingual families. Students whose first language is not English may qualify for ESOL services.
Need Help? Contact your school’s Bilingual Counseling Assistant
Programs & Services
Multilingual Curriculum and Programs
Learn more about the different programs and opportunities offered for multilingual students and families, and to get assistance with any District-related questions or processes.
Language Access Support Services
Learn more about accessing interpretation/translation services, including Bilingual Counseling Assistants (BCAs) assigned to your school, and other resources.
Language Access Concern
Your feedback is essential in helping us improve language access within our District. If you’ve encountered a language-related challenge, such as a communication barrier, translation issue, or interpretation challenge, your input helps us improve our services.
Special Education - Accommodations - Specialized Services
Our school is committed to providing specialized services to children in the least restrictive environment, as required by the law. Students receive accommodations and modifications as outlined in their Individualized Educational Program (IEP).
The District provides an extensive range of educational services and supports for students with diverse needs within our schools.


Enrollment
Welcome to Edwin M. Stanton School! We’re excited to welcome new students in PreK, Kindergarten, and Grades 1–8.
Not sure if Stanton is your neighborhood school? Check with the School Finder Tool
Health & Wellness
School Nurse
Our school nurse provides immediate care for health concerns, conducts required screenings, and supports students’ overall wellness.
For details on medication administration, mandated screenings, immunizations, and other health services, please refer to the Parent & Student Handbook.
➜ Need Help? Contact your School Nurse
Immunization Requirements & Health Services
Pennsylvania law requires all students to be fully immunized or officially exempt before attending school. This is mandated by the PA Department of Health, Philadelphia County Board of Health, and the School District of Philadelphia.
➜ Learn about immunizations, physicals, and wellness programs
Mental Health Resources
Find free support, counseling, and tools to care for your mental well-being.
➜ View Resources
Vaping/Smoking Resources
Family guides, free tools, and support to help quit vaping or smoking.
➜ View Resources
Resources
Parent & Family
Parent and Family Portal
➜ Log in to the Parent & Family Portal to view school announcements, messages from your child’s teacher, and access grades, test scores, attendance, immunization records, and report cards.
Family Hub
➜ Visit the Family Hub for help with registration, academics, special education, English learner support, student records, transportation, and more.
Google Classroom
➜ Log in to Google Classroom using your student’s Chromebook and District credentials to view classwork and homework. For help, see the Google Classroom Login Directions.
Chromebook Support
➜ Get Chromebook help and support including repair locations, resources, and FAQs.
Transportation
➜ View transportation services for bus routes, bus status, the Flat Rate Program, and support.
Accommodations & Multilingual Support
➜ Request translation or accessibility accommodations for any school or District event.
AHERA Inspection Reports
➜ View AHERA inspection reports for asbestos material status and school-specific details.
Students
Student Hub
➜ Visit the Student Hub for help with academics, athletics, records, college & career planning, CTE programs, and more.
Working Papers
➜ Learn more about how to obtain working papers.
Get Involved
Stanton Community Partners
Stanton Community Partners is an all-volunteer nonprofit organization providing independent support to Edwin M. Stanton School, a Title 1 PK-8 school in the Graduate Hospital neighborhood of Philadelphia.
Volunteer
We love parent involvement! Make a positive impact at our school by volunteering your time and talents.
➜ Find out how to become a volunteer
School Advisory Councils (SACs)
SACs are peer-elected groups of family members, school staff, students (grades 7–12), and community members who work together to support academic success and strengthen school partnerships.
➜ Learn more about School Advisory Councils
Parent & Family University
Parent & Family University provides free resources, courses, and support to help parents and families engage with their children, schools, and community.
➜ Learn more about Parent & Family University
Contact Us
Stay Connected
Principal
Ms. Stacey Burnley
Phone: 215-400-7960
Fax: 215-400-7961
➜ Staff Directory
➜ Parent & Family Portal
➜ Google Classroom
➜ Contact Central Office: Get help with enrollment, special education, student records, and more.
