Kindergarten Registration is OPEN!

Welcome McCaskey Class of 2039! All children who will be 5 years of age on or before September 1, 2026 and reside in Lancaster City or Lancaster Township are eligible to apply for kindergarten for the 2026-2027 school year. Families who register now are guaranteed placement in their neighborhood school! APPLY NOW!

Our commitment to a stable path forward for Phoenix Academy

The SDoL school board approved a plan to move Phoenix Academy services to the McCaskey High School for the 2026-2027 school year and end its contract with Camelot/SESI to operate the program. This decision comes after nearly two years of carefully reviewing our current programming and exploring the best options for our students.

Bringing the program fully into the district is intended to strengthen oversight, improve coordination of student supports, and ensure consistency in the services students rely on. A move to McCaskey is also necessary because the Rockland Street facility is nearing the end of its usable life, and the cost of rebuilding is not financially sustainable for the district.

We are grateful to the students, parents, and staff who shared their experiences and recommendations during our recent meetings. The board and administration heard clearly the importance of a sheltered, student-centered program built on trusting, meaningful relationships between staff and students. We are committed to preserving and strengthening exactly this kind of environment.

At this time, there will be no immediate changes to student placement, schedules, or daily routines. The district will work closely with you as valued partners to ensure stability, clear communication, and a smooth transition.

Sincerely,

Dr. Keith Miles
Superintendent
School District of Lancaster

Frequently Asked Questions

Where will the Phoenix Academy be located next year?

Beginning the 2026-27 school year, Phoenix Academy will be located on the A floor of McCaskey East High School, in an area separated from the rest of the building, and will be prepared to provide a welcoming environment that supports face-to-face and online learning, student mentoring, and student support. This area will be accessible only to students enrolled in the Phoenix Academy Program.

What program options will be available to students at Phoenix Academy next year?

Next year, Phoenix Academy will offer flexible program options designed to accommodate credit recovery and sheltered learning models that are rigorous, flexible, and responsive to student needs.  More information about program options will be shared with students and caregivers in the near future.

When will students be able to select a Phoenix program pathway?

A school counselor from McCaskey will be assigned to each student by (date).  Counselors will schedule meetings with current Phoenix students during March and April to begin discussing Phoenix pathways and students’ 2026-27 schedules. Caregivers will be invited to attend these meetings if interested.

When will students and families be able to visit the new Phoenix location?

Students and caregivers will be invited to tour the new Phoenix location when it is ready for students in August 2026.

How will students be transported to Phoenix Academy at McCaskey East High School?

Students who live more than 2 miles from McCaskey will continue to receive transportation to and from their designated pick-up location. A student who lives within two miles of McCaskey will not be provided transportation, per the transportation policy.

Who should I contact with questions about changes at Phoenix Academy next year?

All students and families can direct all questions and concerns via the form below at any time. Dr. Justin Reese, Principal at McCaskey, or Jassinya Alvarado, Director of Educational Access and Opportunity, will get back to families within 1-2 school days. We understand change is hard; we are dedicated to making this transition as easy as possible for all families.

Other questions?

We understand you have questions. That is why you can ask us anything--right here.

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