James J. Sullivan Elementary School
James J. Sullivan Elementary School, located in the Frankford neighborhood of North Philadelphia, is a public elementary school serving students from Kindergarten through 5th grade. As a part of the School District of Philadelphia, Sullivan is committed to providing high quality instruction for all. We uplift scholars academically, socially and personally, while providing families with the tools and experiences needed to thrive.
Principals Message
Welcome to James J. Sullivan Elementary School!
Dear Sullivan Families,
At James J. Sullivan Elementary School, we believe every child can achieve at high levels when provided with strong instruction, consistent support, and meaningful opportunities to grow. Our mission is to provide high-quality instruction for all, uplifting scholars academically, socially, and personally, while equipping families with the resources they need to thrive.
We are committed to maintaining a safe, welcoming, and engaging learning environment where every scholar feels valued and supported. Strong partnerships between home and school are essential to student success, and we encourage families to stay connected through school communications, events, and community meetings throughout the year.
Together, we can ensure that every Sullivan scholar reaches their full potential. Thank you for your continued partnership and support.
Warm regards,
Shantelle Yarbrough, Principal
James J. Sullivan Elementary School
Our School
James J. Sullivan Elementary School is a proud Frankford community school serving scholars in Kindergarten through 5th grade. At Sullivan, we focus on building strong academic foundations in literacy and math while nurturing curiosity, character, and confidence in every child. Our dedicated staff works closely with families to create a safe, supportive environment where scholars feel valued, challenged, and prepared for success in the years ahead.
Attendance & Bell Schedule
Bell Schedule
School Day: 9:00 AM – 3:39 PM
Breakfast: 8:30 AM – 8:50 AM
Lunch/Recess:
- Kindergarten and 1st Grade 11:00 AM- 11:45AM
- 4th and 5th Grade: 11:45 AM – 12:30 PM
- 2nd and 3rd Grade: 12:30 PM – 1:15 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
Art and Drama Club
Provides scholars with an opportunity to express their creativity through the arts.
Young Artist Exhibition
Each year, students participate in the School District of Philadelphia Young Artists Showcase, an annual exhibition of student artwork from across the district.
➜ Learn more
Community Partnerships
- Boys and Girls Club
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
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.
- Sun Up Sharks
- Drama Club
- Art Club
- Saturday Enrichment Program
Our History
James J. Sullivan Elementary School is named in honor of James J. Sullivan, a Philadelphia businessman, philanthropist, and member of the Philadelphia Board of Education. As president of the William Brown Company, Sullivan was also active in numerous educational and charitable organizations throughout the city. His dedication to public service and education continues to reflect the values of the school community today.
The current school building was designed by renowned Philadelphia school architect Irwin T. Catharine and constructed in 1929–1930. Designed in the Art Deco style, the building was added to the National Register of Historic Places in 1988 in recognition of its architectural and historical significance.
For nearly a century, James J. Sullivan Elementary School has served generations of students and families in the Frankford community. Today, the school continues its tradition of academic excellence, community partnership, and preparing every student for lifelong success.
Points of Pride
- Math Mastery: +16.7% increase in Grade 3 Math and +14.1% across grades 3–8.
- Reading Gains: Grade 3 Reading soared by +12.2%, and +4.2% lift across all tested grades.
- +3.1% year-over-year increase in student attendance
- Teacher attendance has improved +9.4% this year (2025-2026)
- Tribune School of the Week (October 2024)
Student Handbook & Policies
➜ Sullivan Parent & Student Handbook
➜ District – Student Code of Conduct & Discipline Process
Policies
- Attendance
- Dress Code – Uniforms
- Cell Phone Policy
- Report Bullying, Harassment, or Discrimination
- Student Health & 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, 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/Top: Navy Blue Polos, Navy Sweaters
Pants/Bottoms: Khaki pants, skirts, knee-length shorts, jumpers
Footwear: Closed-toe, fully enclosed shoes
Not Permitted:
- T-shirts
- Hoodies/sweatshirts
- Oversized clothing
- Jeans
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 counselor.
At A Glance
Principal
Ms. Shantelle Yarbrough
Phone: 215-400-3960
Fax: 215-400-3961
Address:
5300 Ditman St.
Philadelphia, PA 19124
➜ SEPTA – Trip Planner
Grade Levels: K-5
Learning Network: 11
Student Enrollment: 378
➜ School Data & Statistics
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 James J. Sullivan Elementary School, we offer a strong, supportive learning environment where students in grades K–5 thrive academically and socially. Our well-rounded curriculum includes reading, math, science, and social studies—alongside music, art, and physical education to keep learning engaging and fun.
We meet the needs of every learner through personalized support services like reading intervention, counseling, and speech therapy. Our goal is to help every student grow into a confident, curious, and successful learner.
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 James J. Sullivan Elementary School! We’re excited to welcome new students in
Not sure if Sullivan 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.
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.
Get Involved
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: 215-400-3960
Fax: 215-400-3961
➜ Staff Directory
➜ Parent & Family Portal
➜ Google Classroom
➜ Contact Central Office: Get help with enrollment, special education, student records, and more.