Bywood Elementary School
General Information
About Bywood Elementary School
Bywood Elementary School, located in Upper Darby, Pennsylvania, is a vibrant public elementary school that serves students from kindergarten through fifth grade. The school is part of the Upper Darby School District and is dedicated to providing a strong academic foundation in a safe, inclusive, and nurturing environment. Bywood Elementary emphasizes the development of the whole child by combining academic rigor with social-emotional learning, creativity, and community involvement.
The school’s mission is to inspire every student to achieve their fullest potential through quality instruction, innovation, and support from dedicated educators and families. With a culturally diverse student population, Bywood Elementary values equity and inclusion, ensuring that all students, regardless of background, have access to high-quality education. The school offers a wide range of programs designed to meet the individual needs of students, including special education, English Language Learners (ELL) support, and enrichment opportunities. Bywood’s commitment to collaboration, respect, and lifelong learning creates a strong sense of community that helps students thrive both academically and personally.
Contact Information
Address: 330 Avon Road, Upper Darby, Pennsylvania, 19082
Phone Number: (610) 626-9317
Email Address: bywoodoffice@upperdarbysd.org
Bywood Elementary School Facts
| Fact | Information |
|---|---|
| Founding Year | 1923 |
| School Type | Public Elementary School |
| Grades | K–5 |
| Motto | “Learning Together, Growing Together” |
| District | Upper Darby School District |
| Principal | Ms. Tonya Hayman |
Bywood Elementary School Rankings
| Category | Rank |
|---|---|
| Pennsylvania Elementary Schools | Top 25% |
| National Elementary Schools | Top 30% |
Bywood Elementary School Academics
Bywood Elementary School Faculties / Departments
- English Language Arts
- Mathematics
- Science and Technology
- Social Studies
- Fine Arts and Music
- Physical Education and Health
- Library and Media Studies
- Special Education Services
- English Language Learner (ELL) Department
Bywood Elementary School Courses and Programs / Majors
- Core Reading and Literacy Development
- Mathematics Foundations and Problem Solving
- STEM and Project-Based Learning
- Visual and Performing Arts Programs
- Technology and Computer Literacy
- Social-Emotional Learning Curriculum
- Early Literacy Intervention and Tutoring
- Inclusive and Gifted Enrichment Programs
Online Learning
Bywood Elementary School incorporates online learning tools to support student growth both inside and outside the classroom. Students have access to digital platforms such as Google Classroom, i-Ready, and Lexia Core5, which reinforce core subjects like reading and math through personalized online lessons. Teachers use virtual tools to differentiate instruction and maintain communication with families. Although Bywood primarily offers in-person instruction, hybrid and remote learning options are available when needed, ensuring educational continuity. The school’s digital literacy initiatives also help students build 21st-century skills such as collaboration, critical thinking, and problem-solving, preparing them for success in an increasingly digital world.
Average Test Scores
| Test | Average Score |
|---|---|
| PSSA (English Language Arts) | 72% Proficient or Above |
| PSSA (Mathematics) | 69% Proficient or Above |
| Science (Grade 5 PSSA) | 66% Proficient or Above |
Retention and Graduation Rates
Bywood Elementary School boasts a high student retention rate of 97%, demonstrating strong satisfaction among families and consistent academic support across grade levels. As an elementary school, traditional graduation rates do not apply; however, the majority of Bywood students transition successfully to middle school with strong academic skills, confidence, and a love of learning. The school’s comprehensive support programs help ensure that each student is prepared for long-term educational success.
Bywood Elementary School Admissions
GPA Range and SAT / ACT Range
Bywood Elementary School does not require GPA or standardized test scores such as SAT or ACT for admission. Enrollment is open to all children residing within the Upper Darby School District boundaries, ensuring equal access to public education in compliance with Pennsylvania state law.
Bywood Elementary School Acceptance Rate
| Category | Rate |
|---|---|
| District Resident Acceptance | 100% |
| Out-of-District Transfers | Limited |
Bywood Elementary School Application Requirements
As part of the Upper Darby School District, Bywood Elementary requires proof of residency, a birth certificate, and up-to-date immunization records for registration. Families must also provide previous school records and any relevant educational documentation, such as IEPs or language assessment reports, if applicable. The registration process emphasizes accessibility and fairness, ensuring that every child residing within the district can attend Bywood Elementary and receive a high-quality education tailored to their individual needs.
Application Process
- Verify residency within the Upper Darby School District
- Complete the online or in-person registration form
- Submit required documents (birth certificate, proof of address, health and immunization records)
- Attend a registration or placement appointment
- Receive student placement and orientation details
Bywood Elementary School Application Deadlines / Important Dates
| Event | Date |
|---|---|
| Kindergarten Registration Opens | March |
| Registration Deadline | June |
| School Year Begins | Late August |
| Orientation for New Students | August |
Essay Prompt
Bywood Elementary School does not require an essay or personal statement for enrollment. Admission is determined solely by district residency and grade-level eligibility.
Bywood Elementary School Scholarships
Being a public institution, Bywood Elementary does not charge tuition or offer scholarships in the traditional sense. However, the school partners with local organizations and the Bywood PTO to provide financial assistance for field trips, extracurricular activities, and school supplies. This ensures that all students, regardless of financial background, have access to the full educational experience.
Bywood Elementary School Tuition and Fees
| Category | Cost |
|---|---|
| Tuition | Free (Public School) |
| Activity / Field Trip Fees | Varies |
| Lunch Program | Free or Reduced (Eligibility-Based) |
| After-School Programs | $80–$250 per term |
Student Profile and Demographics
Student Demographics
| Demographic | Percentage |
|---|---|
| Female | 49% |
| Male | 51% |
| African American | 53% |
| Hispanic | 16% |
| White | 15% |
| Asian | 10% |
| Multiracial / Other | 6% |
Low-Income Students / Students with Disabilities
Bywood Elementary serves a diverse population, including a significant percentage of students from economically disadvantaged backgrounds. Approximately 68% of students qualify for free or reduced lunch, reflecting the school’s commitment to providing equitable access to learning resources. Around 13% of students receive special education services, and the school employs a team of specialists—including speech therapists, reading interventionists, and occupational therapists—to ensure that all students receive the support they need to succeed. Bywood’s inclusive approach fosters confidence, resilience, and academic growth in every child.
Student Body
| Category | Number |
|---|---|
| Total Enrollment | 520 Students |
| English Language Learners | 22% |
| Special Education Students | 13% |
| Average Class Size | 21 Students |
University Diversity
Diversity is at the heart of Bywood Elementary School’s identity. The student body represents a wide range of cultural, linguistic, and ethnic backgrounds, reflecting the global community of Upper Darby itself. This diversity enhances classroom discussions, encourages mutual respect, and creates an environment where differences are celebrated. The school integrates multicultural education across all subjects and hosts cultural events throughout the year that showcase the traditions, languages, and arts of its students. By fostering cultural awareness and understanding, Bywood Elementary prepares students to become empathetic, open-minded citizens who value inclusivity and cooperation in an interconnected world.
Average Earnings
Although Bywood Elementary does not track earnings for its students, the foundation it provides contributes significantly to long-term educational and career success. Alumni from Bywood typically advance to reputable middle and high schools in the Upper Darby School District, where they continue to perform strongly in academics and extracurricular activities. The skills and values instilled at Bywood—such as discipline, curiosity, and perseverance—help graduates achieve future success in both higher education and the workforce. Surveys of families and educators consistently highlight Bywood’s role in laying the groundwork for lifelong achievement.
Bywood Elementary School Faculty and Staff
Teachers and Staff
Bywood Elementary School is home to a dedicated and experienced team of educators who are passionate about student growth and community engagement. The faculty includes over 40 certified teachers, supported by paraprofessionals, counselors, specialists, and administrative staff. Teachers collaborate regularly to develop curriculum plans that align with Pennsylvania state standards and emphasize inquiry-based learning. Professional development is an integral part of Bywood’s culture, with educators participating in ongoing training to enhance instructional strategies and integrate new technology into the classroom.
Faculty Profiles (Expertise, Achievements)
The teaching staff at Bywood Elementary is composed of highly qualified professionals, many of whom hold advanced degrees in education, literacy, and child development. Several teachers have been recognized by the Upper Darby School District for excellence in teaching, leadership, and innovation. The school’s faculty is deeply committed to inclusivity and academic excellence, often serving as mentors for new teachers and contributors to district-level curriculum initiatives. Their collective expertise ensures that students receive a well-rounded, engaging education that fosters creativity, problem-solving, and collaboration.
Bywood Elementary School Campus and Student Life
Campus Life / Housing
Bywood Elementary offers a welcoming and dynamic campus environment designed to inspire learning and community engagement. The school features modern classrooms, a fully equipped library, computer labs, art and music rooms, and outdoor play areas. The campus encourages physical activity, creativity, and exploration. While the school does not provide housing—as it is a public day school—the surrounding Upper Darby neighborhoods are home to a diverse, family-oriented community. Families actively participate in school events, parent-teacher associations, and volunteer programs that strengthen the connection between home and school.
Transportation
Bywood Elementary School is easily accessible by public transportation and district-operated school buses. The Upper Darby School District provides transportation for eligible students living a certain distance from the school, ensuring safe and efficient travel. The campus is also pedestrian-friendly, with clearly marked crosswalks and bike racks available for students who walk or ride. The school works closely with local authorities to promote safety through its Safe Routes to School program, encouraging healthy and sustainable commuting options for students and families.