A Proud History

Pennsylvania's charter school movement began in 1997 through the passage of the Charter School Act. Local non-profit boards of trustees were given the opportunity to apply for a charter to initiate these unique independent community-based public schools of choice.

In 1998, a dedicated group of parents successfully petitioned the state and Bensalem Township School District for a charter. School Lane Charter School became the first charter school in Bucks County and the first suburban K-8 charter school in Pennsylvania.

Upon opening its doors on August 24, 1998, School Lane enrolled a student body of 450 in grades K-6. Seventh grade was added in 1999-2000 and eighth grade in 2000-2001.

Nearly 600 students from nine school districts now attend School Lane, enjoying an unparalleled educational experience. The waiting list is extensive at each grade level and School Lane continues to receive daily inquiries and visits by interested parents.

Throughout the school's history, parent involvement has remained the key element for student achievement. By sharing their time, skills and expertise in meaningful ways, the parents of School Lane Charter School add real value to the education and experience of every child at the school.

In 2010, School Lane began the groundwork to develop an expanded elementary center and to establish a local high school.

In January 2012, the Bensalem School District approved an amendment to School Lane's operating charter that will allow the school to expand to grades 9-12. The long-anticipated School Lane Charter High School is expected to open in August 2012.

Key Milestones

• 1998: School Lane opened in August with 450 students with the distinction as Bucks County's first charter school
• 2001: School Lane's first Eighth Grade graduation was held in June
• 2003: School Lane became one of the state's first charter schools to receive a charter renewal
• 2008: Building-wide wireless technology installation was completed
• 2010: Purchased adjacent former Cornwell's Skating Center in preparation of establishing the School Lane K-2 Learning Center
• 2011: Kindle e-readers were provided to the eighth grade
• 2012: Bensalem School District approves an amendment to School Lane's charter that allows the school to open a high school.