Catapult Learning: Empowering Students and Educators in Philadelphia and Beyond
Catapult Learning has a rich history of providing academic intervention and professional development solutions to K-12 schools. With nearly five decades of experience, the company has become a national leader in K-12 academic support, working with public, nonpublic, and charter schools. Catapult Learning's commitment to ensuring every child has the opportunity to thrive academically, regardless of their starting point, has made it a trusted partner for schools and districts across the country.
A Legacy of Educational Support
Founded in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, in 1976 as READS, Catapult Learning has a long-standing commitment to education. Co-founded by Stephen K. Freeman, the company initially focused on providing educational services to private and religious schools. Over the years, Catapult Learning has expanded its portfolio of products and services to include intervention, professional development, school improvement, assessment, dropout prevention and recovery, alternative education, and special education programs.
In 2004, Sylvan Education Solutions was renamed Catapult Learning, distinguishing the in-school unit from Sylvan's retail unit, Sylvan Learning Centers. This strategic move allowed Catapult Learning to focus on its core mission of providing tailored support to schools and districts. In 2008, the Catapult Learning division was sold to private investors, making it a private, independent company.
Addressing Achievement Gaps and Promoting Student Success
At a time when national data highlights widening achievement gaps and persistent declines in core subjects, Catapult Learning is working to defy those trends. The latest National Assessment of Educational Progress shows scores in math and reading remain low, with record declines among students in the bottom 20% and more children than ever struggling to read by fourth grade. Catapult Learning recognizes the urgency of addressing these challenges and is committed to providing effective solutions.
"Every day in our classrooms, we see that with consistent support, students can and do succeed," said Matt Dawson, vice president of research and evaluation for Catapult Learning. "This new data tells us that earlier intervention is critical. By the time students reach 8th grade, it can be almost too late to close the gap."
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Catapult Learning's academic intervention programs support struggling learners with instruction tailored to the unique needs of each student. By providing targeted support, Catapult Learning helps students develop the skills and confidence they need to succeed academically.
High-Impact Tutoring: A Key to Accelerating Learning
Recognizing the critical role of tutoring in accelerating learning, Catapult Learning offers tailored tutoring solutions designed to meet students where they are. Tutoring is available in person, virtually, or in hybrid formats, and can be scheduled before, during, or after school, including weekends. Sessions are held a minimum of three times per week, with flexible options tailored to the needs of each school or district.
In recognition of its commitment to high-quality tutoring, Catapult Learning earned the Tutoring Program Design Badge from the National Student Support Accelerator (NSSA) at Stanford University. The Badge was awarded following a rigorous, evidence-based review conducted by an independent panel of education experts.
"Catapult Learning is honored to receive this prestigious national recognition from the NSSA at Stanford University," said Rob Klapper, president at Catapult Learning. "This designation underscores the strength and intentionality behind our high-impact tutoring model," said Devon Wible, vice president of teaching and learning at Catapult Learning.
Each year, Catapult Learning's programs support more than 150,000+ students with nearly four million in-person tutoring sessions, in partnership with 2,100 schools and districts nationwide.
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Empowering Educators Through Professional Development
Catapult Learning understands that investing in teachers is essential to improving student outcomes. The company's professional development services strengthen the capacity of teachers and leaders to raise and sustain student achievement. These services are designed to align with district priorities, funding streams, and instructional goals.
Catapult Learning's professional learning resources equip teachers and leaders with tools to strengthen instruction and school leadership. By providing educators with the knowledge and skills they need to succeed, Catapult Learning helps create a culture of continuous improvement in schools and districts.
Summer Journey: A Customizable Summer Learning Experience
Catapult Learning’s Summer Journey offers customizable K‑8 summer learning experiences that combine academic instruction, enrichment activities, and family engagement. This comprehensive program helps students stay on track during the summer months and prepares them for success in the upcoming school year.
Core Values: Guiding Principles for Success
The Core5 values guide how Catapult Learning makes decisions, treats each other, and works together to shape brighter paths for children, their families, and our communities. These values reflect the company's commitment to excellence, integrity, and innovation.
A Division of FullBloom: Expanding Reach and Impact
Catapult Learning is a division of FullBloom, a company dedicated to providing comprehensive educational solutions. This partnership allows Catapult Learning to expand its reach and impact, serving more students and educators across the country.
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