The Chester County High School is an innovative public high school that provides students with a second chance to earn their high school diploma. It is specifically geared for students who have dropped out of high school or who are at risk of dropping out.
Frequently Asked Questions
Do students attend classes as they would in a regular high school?
No. The Chester County High School has an individualized, self-paced instructional program. Enrolled students attend one of two available three- hour sessions, Monday through Friday. Students work independently to meet the requirements they need to earn a high school diploma. Students may apply for entry at any time during the school year and develop class schedules compatible with work and family responsibilities.
How long will it take a student to complete the program?
The length of time it takes a student to complete the program varies with each student depending upon his or her academic level when s/he entered the program. It is estimated that most students will complete a one-credit course in eight weeks or 120 hours. A student's progress is evaluated according to completed assignments, unit tests and final examinations. As students demonstrate mastery of a course (70% or higher), they will move onto the next course offering.
Are there entrance requirements?
Yes. Students applying to the Chester County High School will take an exam to determine current academic abilities. To be admitted, students must test at the 8.5 grade level or higher in reading comprehension, vocabulary, language usage, problem solving and number operations.
Does the Chester County High School charge tuition?
Yes. Students, 16 through 20 years of age, who live in a supporting school district may receive financial support from their school district to attend the Chester County High School.
Students who do not receive their school district's recommendation to attend the Chester County High School are responsible for their own tuition, as are all students who are 21 years of age or older.
For current tuition rates, please contact the Chester County High School at (610) 518-2671.
How does a student enroll?
- Students, 16 through 20 years of age:
- Students, 16 through 20 years of age, should begin the application process by contacting their high school guidance department or the Chester County High School at (610) 518-2671.
- Students, 21 years of age or older:
- Students, 21 years of age or older, should contact the Chester County High School directly to obtain an application packet.
How is a student's academic program determined?
Each student’s academic plan is determined by the number of credits s/he earned prior to enrollment at the Chester County High School. For example, if a student has completed the tenth grade, then s/he would be required to complete all junior and senior level courses at the Chester County High School.
Who teaches the students?
All courses are taught by teachers certified in secondary education by the Pennsylvania Department of Education. Students work closely with their assigned teacher who provides one-on-one individualized academic instruction. The student to teacher ratio is 15:1.
Are students issued high school diplomas or general equivalency diplomas?
Students who meet all course requirements and who complete 22.25 credits will receive a valid high school diploma issued by the Pennsylvania Department of Education through the Chester County High School. It is not a general equivalency diploma.
Where is the Chester County High School located?
The Chester County High School is located in the Milltown Square, 150 E. Pennsylvania Avenue, Suite 500, in Downingtown, Pennsylvania.
Is transportation provided to the Chester County High School?
No, transportation is the responsibility of the student.
What hours is school in session?
Chester County High School offers two sessions, a morning session from 8:00-11:00 a.m. and an afternoon session from 11:30 a.m.-2:30 p.m., Monday-Friday.
Students are to choose the session that best meets the needs of their work and personal schedules. Students may not switch from one session to another. Once a student has selected a schedule, s/he is expected to attend that session, Monday through Friday.
Who operates the Chester County High School?
The school is operated by the Chester County Intermediate Unit.
Whom do I contact for more information?
For more information, contact your high school’s guidance counselor (even if you are no longer attending the school) or e-mail Christopher Watson, principal, Chester County High School, at (610) 518-2671.
