John S. Jenks School
Jenks Academy for the Arts and Sciences is a Kindergarten through 8th Grade public school in the Chestnut Hill neighborhood of Northwest Philadelphia and part of The School District of Philadelphia. As an authorized International Baccalaureate (IB) World School and Blue Ribbon School of Excellence, Jenks provides a rigorous, student-centered education that encourages curiosity, critical thinking, and academic achievement.
Principal’s Message
Welcome to John Story Jenks Academy for the Arts and Sciences!
As the proud principal of Jenks Academy, I am honored to welcome you to our school community. Located in the Chestnut Hill neighborhood of Northwest Philadelphia, Jenks serves students in Kindergarten through 8th Grade in a supportive, inclusive, and academically challenging environment.
Jenks is proud to be an authorized IB World School and a Blue Ribbon School of Excellence. These distinctions reflect our commitment to helping every student grow academically, socially, and emotionally while developing the skills needed to succeed in school and beyond.
At Jenks, we believe that learning extends beyond the classroom. Our students are encouraged to think critically, explore their interests, and become active members of their community. Through engaging learning experiences and strong relationships with teachers and staff, students are supported in reaching their full potential.
We also recognize that families are a child’s first and most important teachers. The partnership between home and school plays a vital role in student success, and we are grateful for the support and involvement of our families through the Home & School Association and the broader Chestnut Hill community.
Our dedicated staff works every day to create a safe, welcoming, and nurturing environment where students feel valued, challenged, and inspired to learn. We look forward to partnering with you as we help every student thrive.
Yours in Partnership,
Corinne Scioli
Principal
Our School
Jenks Academy for the Arts and Sciences is an authorized International Baccalaureate (IB) World School and National Blue Ribbon School of Excellence that provides a rigorous and supportive learning environment where students are encouraged to be curious, creative, and engaged learners. Through the International Baccalaureate (IB) framework, students develop critical-thinking, problem-solving, and collaboration skills while exploring their interests and making meaningful connections to the world around them.
At Jenks Academy, academic excellence is paired with a strong commitment to student well-being, character development, and community involvement. Through strong partnerships with families and a commitment to the arts, sciences, and whole-child development, Jenks prepares students for success in high school and beyond. Our dedicated staff and families work together to create a welcoming environment where every student is supported, challenged, and inspired to reach their full potential.
Our History
Jenks Academy for the Arts & Sciences is named in honor of John Story Jenks (1839–1923), a Philadelphia merchant, civic leader, and member of the Philadelphia Board of Education. Jenks was a strong advocate for education and lifelong learning, believing that curiosity and the pursuit of knowledge helped prepare young people for success. His dedication to public education and community service continues to inspire the school today.
The current school building was designed by renowned Philadelphia school architect Irwin T. Catharine and constructed in 1922. Designed in the Late Gothic Revival and Tudor Revival styles, the building was added to the National Register of Historic Places in 1988 in recognition of its architectural and historical significance. In 2014, the school became Jenks Academy for the Arts & Sciences, reflecting its expanded focus on arts, science, technology, engineering, and mathematics (STEAM) education.
For more than a century, Jenks has served generations of students and families in the Chestnut Hill community. Today, Jenks Academy for the Arts & Sciences continues its tradition of academic excellence, innovation, creativity, and community partnership while preparing students to become thoughtful, engaged, and lifelong learners.
Attendance & Bell Schedule
Bell Schedule
School Day: 7:30 AM – 2:09 PM
Breakfast: 7:30 AM – 8:15 AM
Lunch: 10:00 AM – 12:00 PM
Recess: 9:45 AM – 12:45 PM
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.
Arts, Music, Dance
- Music
- Art
- Philadelphia Classical Guitar Society
- School Musical
Community Partnerships
Partnership Dashboard
Explore programs and opportunities available to students across the School District of Philadelphia, including arts, STEM, wellness, mentoring, and more.
➜ Search the Dashboard
- Audubon Society
- Body Empowerment
- Chess – ACE
- Chestnut Hill Rotary
- Chestnut Hill Community Association
- Chestnut Hill Hotel
- Chestnut Hill Business Association
- Chestnut Hill Library
- Chestnut Hill College
- Chestnut Hill Hospital Residency Program
- HSA, Jenks Dads On Duty, Jenks Moms On Mission
- IB World School
- Library
- Mindfulness through Movement
- MSA Global Learning
- No Name Gallery
- Nutrition Program
- Pastorius Park
- Philadelphia Classical Guitar Society
- Schools Next Association for Learning Environments
- Woodmere Art Museum
Extracurricular Programs, Clubs & Activities
Our school offers several programs to broaden the horizons of our young scholars. We offer a variety of activities and clubs geared toward student interests and abilities.
- Body Empowerment
- Chess
- Chestnut Hill Library
- Debate Club
- Green Space and Environmental Studies
- IB Exhibition
- Mentorship: Boys 2 Men
- Mindfulness Through Movement
- Philadelphia Classical Guitar Society
- Philadelphia Student Oratorical Showcase
- School Musical
- Yearbook, Media, + Podcast
Points of Pride
- International Baccalaureate World School, Authorization 2025
- Blue Ribbon School of Excellence Lighthouse Designation 2026
- Lindback Award for Distinguished Principal, Corinne Scioli 2024
- Lindback Award for Distinguished Teacher, Dana McNeal 2024
- Lindback Award for Distinguished Teacher, Eileen Rutledge 2026
Sports
Participation in sports requires a completed physical form signed by a doctor.
Available Sports
- Girls on the Run
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
➜ Jenks 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.
Shirt color: Navy blue or white collared shirts. A solid navy blue sweater, fleece, or sweatshirt may be worn over collared shirts as needed.
Pants/Bottoms: Navy or khaki bottoms. Pants, skirts, shorts, or navy/khaki dress/jumpers may be worn. Skirts, shorts, and jumpers should be knee length.
PE Days: All students may wear navy blue or white tops and navy blue bottoms on PE days. No logo gear besides Jenks.
Footwear: Closed-toe shoes or sneakers are the only appropriate footwear for school. Slippers, flip-flops, slides, and open-toe shoes are prohibited.
Not Permitted on Casual Dress Down Days
Certain days will be designated as Casual Days, and the following guidelines should be used when selecting clothing for these days:
- No ripped or tight jeans and no running pants/tights
- No white undershirts worn as outerwear
- No headwear, including hats or bandanas
- No inappropriate logos, text, or pictures
- No sandals, flip-flops, slippers, or open-toe shoes
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
If you have barriers to obtaining a uniform, contact our school counselor, Ms. Amy Watson, by calling 215-400-3360 or via email at amhwatson@philasd.org.
At A Glance
Principal: Corinne Scioli
Grade Levels: K–8
Learning Network: 6
Student Enrollment: 380
➜ School Data & Statistics
Phone: 215-400-3360
Fax: 215-400-3361
Address:
8301 Germantown Ave.
Philadelphia, PA 19118
➜ SEPTA – Trip Planner
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 Jenks Academy for the Arts and Sciences, our curriculum is built on the International Baccalaureate (IB) framework, blending core subjects with a rich array of multidisciplinary activities. To ensure learning is both engaging and well-rounded, all students participate in art, music, foreign language, STEM, and physical education.
We take pride in our specialized clinic for multidisciplinary activities, where students bridge different subjects through hands-on, collaborative projects. By offering these diverse outlets alongside personalized academic support and counseling, we empower our students to become confident, curious, and reflective thinkers. At Jenks Academy, we don’t just teach—we nurture the agency and innovation every student needs to lead and succeed in a global society.
Our Multidisciplinary Edge:
- Creative Arts: Dedicated music and art programs.
- Future-Ready: STEM and foreign language instruction.
- Wellness: Physical education and a unique multidisciplinary clinic.
- IB Framework: Inquiry-based learning that connects all subjects.
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.
Enrollment
Welcome to Jenks Academy for the Arts and Sciences! We’re excited to welcome new students in Kindergarten through 8th Grade.
Not sure if Jenks Academy 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.
Newsletters
➜ View our monthly newsletters
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.
Student Recognition Assemblies
Get Involved
Home and School Association
From our lively fun feasts and family engagement events to our annual book fair and school store for Jenks gear, the HSA helps Jenks shine—inside and out! We are a dedicated community of families working together to build the “partnership beyond the walls” that makes our school so special. Whether we are sharing a meal at a community feast or planning our next big fundraiser, the HSA is the heartbeat of our school spirit.
- Join us to share your ideas, stay informed, and connect with other parents.
- Participate in our “fun feasts” and community-building events throughout the year.
- Visit our school store to grab the latest Jenks gear or volunteer at our beloved book fairs.
➜ View the HSA Calendar & Learn How to Join
➜ View Meeting Presentations & Minutes
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: 215-400-3360
Fax: 215-400-3361
➜ Staff Directory
➜ Parent & Family Portal
➜ Google Classroom
➜ Contact Central Office: Get help with enrollment, special education, student records, and more.