Saint Lucy School for Children with Visual Impairments is a Catholic School that provides spiritual and academic instruction, as well as training in all areas of the expanded core curriculum; thus preparing students for the challenges of life and pursuit of higher education.
Saint Lucy Day School for Children with Visual Impairments was begun in Philadelphia in 1955 to meet the religious and educational needs of visually impaired/blind children.
At that time, parents had sought to find a Catholic school where their children would receive instruction in the faith, as well as the special education they needed.
Finding none, the parents approached Cardinal O'Hara, who was then Archbishop of Philadelphia, and requested that a school be started.
Cardinal O'Hara commissioned Bishop McShea, pastor of Saint Francis de Sales Parish, to direct the project.
With the cooperation of the Archdiocese, the people of the parish, the Sisters, Servants of the Immaculate Heart of Mary, and God's blessings, the school was opened, took root and is still flourishing.
Quick Stats (2025)
- Top Ranked PA School
- School Type: Special Education School
- Grades: Kindergarten-8
- Enrollment: 33 students
- Yearly Tuition: $32,000
- Acceptance rate: 100%
- Average class size: 6 students
- Application Deadline: None / Rolling
- Source: Verified school update
Top Rankings
Saint Lucy School for Children with Visual Impairments ranks among the top 20% of private schools in Pennsylvania for:
Category
Attribute
Advanced Degrees
School Overview
School Type
School Membership(s)School Assoc.
Religious Affiliation
Grades Offered
Grades Kindergarten-8
ADD/ADHD Support
Yes
Learning Difference Programs
Yes
Learning Programs Supported
blind and visually impaired with mild learning differences
Year Founded
1955
School Calendar
First Day of School
Mon. Sep 1, 2025
Student Body
Total Students
33 students
Student Body Type
Co-ed
% Students of Color
33%
State avg.: 27%
Students by Grade
Academics and Faculty
Total Classroom Teachers
6 teachers
Student : Teacher Ratio
6:1
National avg.: 13:1
% Faculty w/Advanced Degree
80%
Average Class Size
6 students
List of Courses Offered
Classroom Dress Code
Formal
plaid jumpers with blue shirt for girls / navy khaki pants with blue polo shirt for boys
Tuition and Acceptance Rate
Admission Deadline
None / Rolling
Yearly Tuition Cost
$32,000
Tuition Notes
Tuition Assistance Available
% on Financial Aid
90%
Acceptance Rate
100%
National avg.: 81%
Admissions Director
Sister Lisa lettiere
Extracurriculars
Total ExtracurricularsTotal Extra-curric.
1 extracurricular
ExtracurricularsExtra-curric.
Club or Organization:
St. Jerome CYO Sports
St. Jerome CYO Sports
School Notes
- School Motto: Education based in faith and centered upon academic instruction.
- Saint Lucy Day School for Children with Visual Impairments is a Catholic School that provides spiritual and academic instruction, as well as training in all areas of the expanded core curriculum; thus preparing students for the challenges of life and pursuit of higher education. Saint Lucy Day School for Children with Visual Impairments was begun in Philadelphia in 1955 to meet the religious and educational needs of visually impaired/blind children. At that time, parents had sought to find a Catholic school where their children would receive instruction in the faith, as well as the special education they needed. Finding none, the parents approached Cardinal O'Hara, who was then Archbishop of Philadelphia, and requested that a school be started. Cardinal O'Hara commissioned Bishop McShea, pastor of Saint Francis de Sales Parish, to direct the project. With the cooperation of the Archdiocese, the people of the parish, the Sisters, Servants of the Immaculate Heart of Mary, and God's blessings, the school was opened, took root and is still flourishing.
Source: Verified school update
Frequently Asked Questions
How much does Saint Lucy School for Children with Visual Impairments cost?
Saint Lucy School for Children with Visual Impairments's tuition is approximately $32,000 for private students.
What is the acceptance rate of Saint Lucy School for Children with Visual Impairments?
The acceptance rate of Saint Lucy School for Children with Visual Impairments is 100%, which is higher than the national average of 81%.
What is Saint Lucy School for Children with Visual Impairments's ranking?
Saint Lucy School for Children with Visual Impairments ranks among the top 20% of private schools in Pennsylvania for: Highest percentage of faculty with advanced degrees.
When is the application deadline for Saint Lucy School for Children with Visual Impairments?
The application deadline for Saint Lucy School for Children with Visual Impairments is rolling (applications are reviewed as they are received year-round).
In what neighborhood is Saint Lucy School for Children with Visual Impairments located?
Saint Lucy School for Children with Visual Impairments is located in the Northeast Philadelphia neighborhood of Philadelphia, PA. There are 29 other private schools located in Northeast Philadelphia.
School Reviews
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