John B. Kelly School
John B. Kelly School, located in Philadelphia’s historic Germantown neighborhood, is a K–5 public school in the School District of Philadelphia. As a safe, nurturing community, Kelly pairs high academic expectations with a deep commitment to student growth and inclusive practices.

Principal’s Message
Welcome to John B. Kelly School
Dear Kelly Families,
At Kelly School, we live by our motto: SOARING HIGHER! Every Eagle. Every Day. Always Achieving! To us, “soaring higher” means driving individualized student and staff growth, moving everyone to their personal next level. We foster a warm, welcoming environment where every Kelly Eagle cultivates their limitless potential through high-quality instruction, access, and inclusion every single day.
To help our students reach these heights and keep soaring higher, our community focuses on three core PBIS norms: Be Safe, Be Respectful, and Be Responsible. We believe all Kelly Eagles can succeed and live up to our motto when they practice these norms, attend school regularly, complete their work, and treat others with kindness.
Every student deserves an excellent education in a safe, supportive, and empathetic environment where they truly belong. Because student success is a team effort, we welcome your partnership, questions, and feedback. We encourage you to stay connected by attending SAC meetings and participating in our school events throughout the year.
Thank you for your continued support as we work together to create a positive, high-achieving experience for every Kelly Eagle. Let’s keep soaring higher!
Warm regards,
Ms. Alia Dickerson
Principal, John B. Kelly School


Our School
John B. Kelly School is a joyful community hub where our students love to learn, grow, and lead. Our exceptional educators champion academic excellence and inclusive practices, ensuring every child feels a deep sense of belonging. In close partnership with families, we inspire our K–5 students to become confident, lifelong learners who are constantly soaring higher and achieving their best every single day.
Attendance & Bell Schedule
Bell Schedule
- School Day: 8:50 AM – 3:29 PM
- Breakfast: 8:20 AM – 8:45 AM
- Lunch/Recess:
- 11:30 AM – 12:15 PM: 1st Grade & K4 (Lunch); 2nd Grade & K3 (Recess)
- 12:15 PM – 1:00 PM: 3rd Grade & K1 (Lunch); 4th Grade & Room 102 (Recess)
- 1:05 PM – 1:50 PM: Kindergarten & K6 (Lunch); 5th Grade & Room 101 (Recess)
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
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.
Community Partnerships
- Arden for All
- Barnes Foundation
- Canaan Baptist Church
- Eat Right Philly
- Germantown Cricket Club
- Kelly Garden
- Kelly Library
- Smiles PA
- St. Joseph’s University
- UYKQ Afterschool Program
- Vision to Learn
- Zhang Sah
Our History
John B. Kelly School is named in honor of John B. Kelly Sr. (1889–1960), a prominent Philadelphia businessman, civic leader, and champion rower. Kelly rose from working as a bricklayer to building a successful construction company and became one of the city’s most celebrated athletes, winning three Olympic gold medals in rowing during the 1920s. His achievements, determination, and commitment to Philadelphia left a lasting legacy in the city.
John B. Kelly School has a longstanding presence in Philadelphia’s historic Germantown community, where its campus on Pulaski Avenue has served generations of students and families. Over the years, the school and surrounding community have continued to invest in the campus, including the development of greener outdoor spaces designed to support recreation, environmental learning, and community connection.
Today, John B. Kelly School continues its tradition of academic excellence, community partnership, and providing a safe and nurturing environment where students can learn, grow, and succeed. Proudly known as the Home of the Eagles, Kelly continues to build on its history while preparing each new generation of students for lifelong learning.
Points of Pride
- SOARING HIGHER! Every Eagle. Every Day. Always Achieving!
- Home of the Eagles: Kelly builds a strong sense of school pride, belonging, and student leadership.
- Inclusive Practices: Kelly pairs high academic expectations with a deep commitment to student growth, access, and inclusion.
Student Handbook & Policies
➜ Parent/Student Handbook & Code of Conduct
➜ District – Student Code of Conduct & Discipline Process
Policies
- Dress Code – Uniforms
- Cell Phone Policy
- Report Bullying, Harassment, or Discrimination
- Student 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, please 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.
Need school uniform items? Families can shop our Online School Store for approved clothing that students can wear as part of their school uniform. Orders are placed online and shipped directly to your home.
➜ Visit the Online School Store
Shirt/Top
- Green polo shirts or white oxford shirts, long or short sleeves
- Green or green plaid ties or cross ties
Pants/Bottoms
- Khaki pants, shorts, skirts, or jumpers, knee length or longer
- Students are permitted to wear pants under their uniform skirts in cold weather.
Footwear: Shoes or sneakers with socks.
Gym Requirements
It is important for students to come prepared for gym class.
- All students must wear sneakers to participate, along with sweatpants, T-shirts, and/or sweatshirts.
- Attire: Dark green or black sweatpants, JB Kelly uniform, or gym shirt.
Not Permitted
- Shorts of mid-thigh or above the knee
- Jeans of any color or oversized pants
- Stripes, polka dots, or items with patterns; all items should be a solid color
- Undershirts/T-shirts with logos, tank tops, or halter tops
- Midriff tops, crop tops, spaghetti straps, or see-through clothing
- Sweatshirts other than the official school sweatshirt or hoodies
- Large or dangling earrings and novelty jewelry, make-up, or body glitter
- Hard-soled shoes, open-toe shoes, Crocs, slippers, sandals, or flip-flops
- Headwear other than for religious purposes, including bandanas, scarves, and hats
- Cold-weather outerwear may not be worn in class.
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
Alia Dickerson
Phone: 215-400-3580
Address:
5116 Pulaski Ave
Philadelphia, PA 19144
➜ SEPTA – Trip Planner
Grade Levels: K–5
Learning Network: 5
Student Enrollment: 346
➜ 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.
➜ View Our School Calendar
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.
➜ View the District Academic Calendar
Academics
At John B. Kelly School, we provide a warm, welcoming learning environment where Kelly Eagles in grades K–5 cultivate their limitless potential through high-quality instruction every single day. Our well-rounded curriculum features rigorous instruction in reading, math, science, and social studies—paired with music, art, physical education, and digital literacy to ensure learning is engaging, inclusive, and accessible for all. By focusing on individualized growth and high expectations, we ensure our students are always moving to their personal next level.
➜ View our full academic overview to learn more about our curriculum and academic programs.
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.
➜ Learn more about IEPs and Special Education Programs.
Enrollment
Welcome to John B. Kelly School! We’re excited to welcome new students in Kindergarten and Grades 1–5.
Not sure if Kelly 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
View school announcements, messages from your child’s teacher, grades, test scores, attendance, immunization records, and report cards.
➜ Log in to the Parent & Family Portal
Family Hub
Get help with registration, academics, special education, English learner support, student records, transportation, and more.
➜ Visit the Family Hub
Google Classroom
Log in using your student’s Chromebook and District credentials to view classwork and homework.
➜ Log in to Google Classroom
➜ View Google Classroom Login Directions
Chromebook Support
Get Chromebook help and support including repair locations, resources, and FAQs.
➜ Get Chromebook Support
Transportation
View transportation services for bus routes, bus status, the Flat Rate Program, and support.
➜ View Transportation Services
Accommodations & Multilingual Support
Request translation or accessibility accommodations for any school or District event.
➜ Request Accommodations
AHERA Inspection Reports
View asbestos material status and school-specific details.
➜ View AHERA Inspection Reports
Students
Student Hub
Get help with academics, athletics, records, college & career planning, CTE programs, and more.
➜ Visit the Student Hub
Working Papers
Learn how to obtain working papers.
➜ Learn more about Working Papers
Get Involved
Home and School Association
Our HSA invites all families to get involved in building a welcoming school community.
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
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
Contact Us
Stay Connected
Phone: 215-400-3580
➜ Staff Directory
➜ Parent & Family Portal
➜ Google Classroom
➜ Contact Central Office: Get help with enrollment, special education, student records, and more.
