About The Pathway School
A nonprofit special education school, Pathway builds academic, social, and life skills
The Pathway School is a nonprofit special education school licensed by the Pennsylvania Department of Education. Founded in 1961, Pathway serves students with Autism Spectrum Disorders, Intellectual Disabilities, serious emotional disturbances and other neurological impairments. Pathway’s programs are licensed by the Pennsylvania State Board of Private Academic Schools and approved by the Pennsylvania Bureau of Special Education to serve students ages 5–21.
Mission: Promote success and independence
The mission of The Pathway School is to build academic, social, and life skills in students with special needs to promote their success and independence after Pathway.
History: Among the first schools of its kind
At its founding in 1961, Pathway was among very few schools in the Greater Philadelphia area designed exclusively for learning disabled children by unifying the disciplines of psychology, psychiatry, medicine and social work with education. Since then, Pathway has increased enrollment and staff who support the students, developed a vibrant learning environment on a 12-acre campus in Montgomery County, and solidified its reputation as a leader in innovative, high-quality programs and services.
A Message from Pathway's President & CEO
Dear Pathway School Community:
Last week, we concluded our second marking period of the school year and are now halfway through the school year. Report cards have been issued, and academic awards have been handed out to worthy recipients. I have no doubt the remaining two marking periods of the school year will pass even quicker than the first two.
The 2022-23 school year has been remarkable for several reasons. First, this school year has felt like a return to pre-pandemic ‘normality’. For the first time in more than 2 years, COVID does not seem to dictate how we operate the school. While we remain mindful of this health emergency, like most of America, we seem to be better at navigating around it.
This school year has been noteworthy because of the relative calm around the campus. Overall, this year has been quieter, with fewer interruptions in the school day. As I walk around the campus, I see students engaged in their learning, and more engaged with one another. The adoption of Positive Behavior Supports and Well-Managed Schools (in the Upper School Program) have been successful!
I am especially proud of the student-led creation of Intramural sports on campus. Thus far, Pathway students have been able to participate in outdoor basketball, flag football, and indoor basketball. I am proud of our student leaders who advocated for this, and I am equally proud of the staff for making this a reality for our students!
The second half of the school year will include some upheaval on the campus. Beginning in March, a construction team will begin the complete renovation of the Valley Forge and Anthony Wayne buildings. These buildings are more than 50 years old and have needed updating for some time. The construction will be confined to a corner of the campus, away from the foot traffic of students and staff. It is our plan to have these two buildings back in operation by the first day of classes in September 2023! Stay tuned for updates.
Things continue to bustle at Pathway. Please continue to visit this site and stay connected to The Pathway School through our various social media channels. We are grateful for your continued support!
Yours Sincerely,
David J. Schultheis
President & CEO
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