Norwood-Fontbonne Academy Awarded $400,000 LSA Grant

Norwood-Fontbonne Academy, a coed Catholic independent academy for preschool to eighth grade students located in the Chestnut Hill section of Philadelphia, has been sponsored by PIDC, Philadelphia’s public-private economic development corporation, and has been awarded a Local Share Account Grant from the Commonwealth of Pennsylvania in the amount of $400,000 to support enhancements and improvements to the NFA campus.

On Tuesday, May 30, leadership from NFA was joined by Representative Tarik Khan and Senator Art Haywood for a check presentation ceremony on The Fontbonne Campus.

"All of us in the NFA community are deeply grateful and energized by this transformational opportunity to enhance our campus, improve the student learning experience, and support sustainable practices in our environment," said Dr. Killeen.

Representative Khan and Senator Haywood are incredibly excited to partner with NFA and very complimentary of the high standard NFA has set.

"For over 100 years, Norwood-Fontbonne Academy and the Sisters of Saint Joseph have been helping to help form leaders who are self-driven and socially responsible," said Representative Khan.

"We know there are examples throughout the community, throughout the nation, such as [NFA], that show the way to teaching our young children," said Senator Haywood. "This is a great environment for learning."

Enhancements on The Fontbonne Campus will include: walkways, pathways, entry piers, lighting, signage, landscaping, soil conservation, and outdoor learning and recreational resources.

"A few weeks ago, Representative Tarik Khan visited campus and he was so impressed by our students and faculty," said Dr. Killeen. "The vibrant community of learners and educators at NFA is deeply inspirational. The commitment and engagement of Representative Khan and Senator Haywood is such a blessing."

"The terms of the LSA grant restrict spending to our outdoor spaces on The Fontbonne campus," added Dr. Killeen. "These funds will make possible enhancements to The Fontbonne Campus including new pathways, nature trails, enhanced outdoor learning and recreation, lighting, signage, and environmental conservation. We are thrilled that these funds will help us realize incredible dreams to support our students on their academic journey and kick off the next phase of implementation of the NFA Campus Plan."

The grant funding period will be from Summer 2023 to Summer 2026.

This initiative has grown out of the NFA Strategic Plan, Directed Toward Tomorrow, and the comprehensive campus plan created through that process. These outdoor initiatives help NFA fulfill its mission and vision. As the Student Vision states: “A Norwood-Fontbonne Academy student is one who treasures self, others, and the Earth.”

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