District Profile
Upper Darby School District Overview
The Upper Darby School District serves the residents of Upper Darby Township, Clifton Heights Borough, and Millbourne Borough, collectively representing a suburban community of approximately 93,000 residents. The district is located in Southeast Delaware County, Pennsylvania, and is one of the largest school districts in the state, with over 12,500 students, 1,600 employees, 1,000 professional staff, and 550 support personnel.
SCHOOLS AND STUDENT ENROLLMENT
The district consists of 13 schools:
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1 High School
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2 Middle Schools
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9 Elementary Schools
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1 Kindergarten Center
community and diversity
Upper Darby School District spans 8.3 square miles and is home to a diverse community. The district's student body represents over 80 birth countries and speaks more than 100 home languages. The township features a variety of housing options, including apartment complexes, townhouses, duplexes, and single-family homes.
Special Programs and Services
The district serves a wide range of student needs, including:
- English Language Learner Program: Over 2,050 students enrolled
- Special Education Programs: Over 2,400 students supported
- Career and Technical Education (CTE):
- 178 high school students attend county-level programs
- 138 students participate in CTE outside of the district
- 40 students are in the Cosmetology program
Transportation Services
The district provides transportation for approximately 5,000 students attending over 130 public, charter, and non-profit schools. These services include both district-operated vehicles and public transit options.
Historical Background
Founded on July 4, 1839, Upper Darby School District has a long tradition of educational excellence. The district’s first School Board President, Dr. George Smith, played a pivotal role in drafting Pennsylvania’s Free Public School Act in 1836, which laid the foundation for free public education in the state. More about Dr. Smith’s contributions can be found on the Upper Darby Historical Society website.
Distinguished Alumni
Upper Darby School District takes pride in its alumni, who contribute to various fields worldwide while embodying the values of Excellence, Opportunity, and Unity. Their achievements are honored through the Alumni Wall of Fame.
Community Partnerships and Recognition
The district collaborates with various organizations to enhance the quality of education and community life, including:
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Upper Darby Township
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Sellers Memorial Free Public Libraries
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Upper Darby Township Police & Fire Departments
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Parent groups, civic organizations, and faith-based entities
In 2010, the district was honored with the "Great Place to Work" Award by the Philadelphia Inquirer.
Budget and Financial Overview
The Upper Darby School District operates with a budget exceeding $269 million, a millage rate of 25.1224, and an average property value assessment of $165,000.
| Upper Darby School District Budget and Resources Overview (2023-2024) | |
|---|---|
| 2023-2024 Budget | $269,799,628 |
| School Tax - mills |
25.1224 |
| Busing |
$8,885.337 |
| Teachers | 1,223 |
| Average Cost per Student | $18,084 |