Daycare Record Child care inspection records

Elevated Scholars Learning Academy

1440 S 18th St, Philadelphia, PA 19146 · Philadelphia County
Issuance of Provisional Certificate of Compliance at the time of Initial, April 2026 (COMPASS status: Pending Appeal) Provisional certificate 1 core-safety citation in last 12 months

Elevated Scholars Learning Academy is a certified child care center in Philadelphia, PA, with capacity for 19 children. Since August 2021, Pennsylvania certification staff have inspected it twice. The state cited 26 violations, 1 of them core-safety (supervision, staff ratios, discipline, background checks, child protection or safe sleep), most often for emergency preparedness (9 of 26). All 26 came in the last 12 months, including 1 on a core-safety topic. Measured by topic-weighted citations per inspection, it is tied for #1,144 of 1,163 centers in Philadelphia and has more citations per inspection than 96% of Pennsylvania certified centers.

Inspection record

More citations than 96% of 4,789 Pennsylvania certified centers, per inspection, weighted by topic. Among the most cited
Tied for #1,144 of 1,163 centers in Philadelphia
1 Core-safety citations
25 Other citations
2 Inspections
0 Complaint investigations that found violations
26 citations from 2 state visits since Aug 16, 2021 · 26 in the last 12 months · last inspected Jul 22, 2026

Every state visit

2022 2023 2024 2025 2026 INSPECTIONS (top) · REPORTS & INVESTIGATIONS (bottom) Jul 22, 2026 · Inspection · citation found Feb 13, 2026 · Inspection · citation found
Violation found No violation Top row: inspections · bottom row: complaint investigations, self-reported incidents and other visits

What inspectors cited most

Emergency preparedness 9
Building & playground safety 5
Records & paperwork 4
Health & medication 3
Training & qualifications 3
Background checks 1
Food & feeding 1

Citations, newest first

Core safety Jul 22, 2026 Inspection Background checks
Comply with CPSL 55 Pa. Code §3270.32(a)
During the renewal inspection on 7/22/26 the file reviewed for staff person #1, identified as the director, hired (see code sheet) contained a PA criminal clearance dated 5/19/21 and child abuse dated 6/3/21 which is more than 60 months old. The file for staff person #1 and staff person #2 did not contain a signed disclosure statement.
Center’s plan of correction (implemented, Aug 26, 2026): “The only acceptable plan is for staff person #1 to be removed from a childcare position at the facility.”
Citation Jul 22, 2026 Inspection Emergency preparedness
Training regarding plan 55 Pa. Code §3270.27(c)
During the renewal inspection on 7/22/26 the file reviewed for staff person #1 and staff person #2 did not have documentation that emergency plan training was received.
Center’s plan of correction (implemented, Aug 26, 2026): “Emergency plan training was completed with facility staff and the training date and names of staff who received the training were documented and placed in the facility file.”
Citation Jul 22, 2026 Inspection Emergency preparedness
Plan posted 55 Pa. Code §3270.27(d)
During the renewal inspection on 7/22/26 the emergency plan was not posted in the facility.
Center’s plan of correction (implemented, Aug 26, 2026): “A current copy of the emergency plan was posted in a conspicuous location in the facility.”
Citation Jul 22, 2026 Inspection Building & playground safety
Handwashing signs 55 Pa. Code §3270.82(h)
During the renewal inspection on 7/22/26 there were no handwashing signs posted in the bathroom.
Center’s plan of correction (implemented, Aug 26, 2026): “Handwashing signs stating that hands must be washed after toileting and before eating were posted at the required bathroom/toilet and sink locations.”
Citation Jul 22, 2026 Inspection Building & playground safety
High Chairs 55 Pa. Code §3270.105
During the renewal inspection on 7/22/26 facility did not have any highchairs.
Center’s plan of correction (implemented, Aug 26, 2026): “Before reopening, the facility will obtain an appropriate highchair with a wide base and T-shaped safety strap for use when a child in care requires a highchair.”
Citation Jul 22, 2026 Inspection Food & feeding
Refrigerator 55 Pa. Code §3270.107
During the renewal inspection on 7/22/26 the refrigerator temperature read 50°.
Center’s plan of correction (implemented, Aug 26, 2026): “The refrigerator was adjusted to maintain food at 45 degrees F or below and an operating refrigerator thermometer is maintained inside the unit.”
Citation Jul 22, 2026 Inspection Health & medication
Physical examination/Health assessment, TB test 55 Pa. Code §3270.151(c)(1)/3270.192(3)
During the renewal inspection on 7/22/26 the file reviewed for staff person #1 did not include a health assessment.
Center’s plan of correction (implemented, Aug 26, 2026): “A current adult health assessment, including the required physical examination and tuberculosis documentation, will be obtained for staff person #1 and placed in the staff file before that person returns to a childcare position.”
Citation Jul 22, 2026 Inspection Building & playground safety
Measurement and use of indoor child care space 55 Pa. Code §3270.61
During the renewal inspection on 7/22/26 room #2 was observed being used as storage instead of measured childcare space.
Center’s plan of correction (implemented, Aug 26, 2026): “Before reopening, room #2 will be cleared of storage and returned to its approved use as measured childcare space. If the room is used for storage in the future, it will not be counted or used as childcare space.”
Citation Jul 22, 2026 Inspection Emergency preparedness
Every 60 days 55 Pa. Code §3270.94(a)(1)
During the renewal inspection on 7/22/26 provider unable to produce documentation that fire drills were conducted every 60 days.
Center’s plan of correction (implemented, Aug 26, 2026): “Fire drill documentation was updated and placed on file to document the facility fire drills.”
Citation Jul 22, 2026 Inspection Emergency preparedness
Evacuation routes posted 55 Pa. Code §3270.94(a)(5)
During the renewal inspection on 7/22/26 evacuation routes were not posted in the facility.
Center’s plan of correction (implemented, Aug 26, 2026): “Evacuation routes were posted in conspicuous locations in the facility as required”
Citation Jul 22, 2026 Inspection Building & playground safety
Devices must be compliant 55 Pa. Code §3270.95(a)
During the renewal inspection on 7/22/26 provider was unable to test fire detection system. Annual testing documentation was dated 5/23/25.
Center’s plan of correction (implemented, Aug 26, 2026): “Before reopening, the fire detection system will be tested, and current annual testing documentation will be obtained and maintained at the facility”
Citation Jul 22, 2026 Inspection Emergency preparedness
Emergency plan 55 Pa. Code §3270.27(f)
During the renewal inspection on 7/22/26 operator had not sent a copy of the emergency plan to the local municipality and county emergency management agency.
Center’s plan of correction (implemented, Aug 26, 2026): “A copy of the emergency plan was sent electronically to the applicable local municipality and county emergency management agency, and documentation of submission is maintained with the emergency plan.”
Citation Jul 22, 2026 Inspection Training & qualifications
Employed and present 30 hrs/wk 55 Pa. Code §3270.34(c)
During the renewal inspection on 7/22/26 director was not present and cannot work in a childcare position due to CPSL violations.
Center’s plan of correction (implemented, Aug 26, 2026): “The facility is currently closed. Before reopening, the operator will ensure that a qualified director who meets all regulatory and CPSL requirements is employed and scheduled to be present at the facility at least 30 hours per week.”
Citation Jul 22, 2026 Inspection Records & paperwork
Signed 55 Pa. Code §3270.123(a)
During the renewal inspection on 7/22/26 the file reviewed for child #1 did not include a fee agreement.
Center’s plan of correction (implemented, Aug 26, 2026): “Child #1's file will be updated to include a completed fee agreement signed by the operator and the parent, and the agreement will be retained in the child's record.”
Citation Jul 22, 2026 Inspection Records & paperwork
Admission date 55 Pa. Code §3270.123(a)(6)
During the renewal inspection on 7/22/26 the file reviewed for child #1 did not specify date of admission.
Center’s plan of correction (implemented, Aug 26, 2026): “Child #1's agreement will be updated to specify the child's date of admission and the completed agreement will be maintained in the child's file”
Citation Jul 22, 2026 Inspection Records & paperwork
Two written references 55 Pa. Code §3270.192(5)
During the renewal inspection on 7/22/26 the file reviewed for staff person #1 and staff person #2 did not include two written nonfamily references.
Center’s plan of correction (implemented, Aug 26, 2026): “Two written, nonfamily references attesting to suitability will be obtained for each cited facility person and maintained in the appropriate staff file before the center reopens or the individual works in care.”
Citation Jul 22, 2026 Inspection Training & qualifications
General requirements for facility persons 55 Pa. Code §3270.33(d)
During the renewal inspection on 7/22/26 the file reviewed for staff person #2 did not include pediatric first aid and pediatric cpr training certificate.
Center’s plan of correction (implemented, Aug 26, 2026): “A current pediatric first aid and pediatric CPR training certificate for staff person #2 will be obtained and placed in the staff file before the center reopens. No children will be in care unless a qualified facility person is present.”
Citation Feb 13, 2026 Inspection Emergency preparedness
Contact when arises/Contact when ended 55 Pa. Code §3270.27(a)(3)/3270.27(a)(4)
The facility's emergency plan did not provide for a method for facility persons to contact parents as soon as reasonably possible when an emergency situation arises and for a method for facility persons to inform parents that the emergency has ended and to provide instruction as to how parents can safely be reunited with their children.
Center’s plan of correction (implemented, Mar 16, 2026): “We will revise and submit a copy of the facility emergency plan to include a method for facility persons to contact parents as soon as reasonably possible when an emergency situation arises and a method for facility persons to inform parents that the emergency has ended and to provide instruction…”
Citation Feb 13, 2026 Inspection Emergency preparedness
Letter to parents 55 Pa. Code §3270.27(e)
The letter given to parents regarding the emergency plan did not explain the emergency procedure (lockdown and accommodations) to the plan as required in 3270.27 subsection a.
Center’s plan of correction (implemented, Mar 27, 2026): “We will revise the letter given to parents to ensure that it explains the emergency procedures and updates as required in 3270.27 subsection a. We will submit a copy of the revised letter.”
Citation Feb 13, 2026 Inspection Building & playground safety
Three steps handrail 55 Pa. Code §3270.80(a)
The rear playroom stairs had three steps and lacked a handrail.
Center’s plan of correction (implemented, Mar 31, 2026): “We will install a handrail. We will submit written verification of the installation.”
Citation Feb 13, 2026 Inspection Health & medication
12 months prior to service and every 24 months thereafter 55 Pa. Code §3270.151(a)
Two staff person's records did not contain a health assessment completed within 12 months prior to the date of hire or within the past 24 months. (#2) (#3-corrected)
Center’s plan of correction (implemented, Mar 27, 2026): “We will obtain and submit a current up-to-date health assessment for the identified staff persons. We will ensure that staff health assessments are completed within the required timeframes as specified in this regulation.”
Citation Feb 13, 2026 Inspection Health & medication
Mantoux TB 55 Pa. Code §3270.151(c)(2)
One facility person's health assessment did not include written verification of tuberculosis screening by the Mantoux method within 12 months prior to the date of initial employment in accordance with 3270.151(a). (#1)
Center’s plan of correction (implemented, Mar 27, 2026): “The staff person will complete TB testing and submit written verification of negative Manotux TB testing. We will ensure that facility persons' health assessments include written verification of tuberculosis screening by the Mantoux method within 12 months prior to the date of initial employment.”
Citation Feb 13, 2026 Inspection Emergency preparedness
Emergency plan 55 Pa. Code §3270.27(a)(5)
The facility's emergency plan did not provide for accommodations for infants, toddlers, children with disabilities, and children with chronic medical conditions.
Center’s plan of correction (implemented, Mar 16, 2026): “We will amend the facility emergency plan to include accommodations for infants, toddlers, children with disabilities, and children with chronic medical conditions. We will submit a written copy of the amended emergency plan.”
Citation Feb 13, 2026 Inspection Emergency preparedness
Emergency plan 55 Pa. Code §3270.27(a)(1)
The facility's emergency plan did not provide for shelter of children during an emergency including lock down. shelter-in place and shelter at locations away from the facility premises.
Center’s plan of correction (implemented, Mar 27, 2026): “We will amend the facility emergency plan to include lock down, shelter-in place and shelter at locations away from the facility premises. We will submit a written copy of the amended emergency plan.”
Citation Feb 13, 2026 Inspection Records & paperwork
Pertinent Laws & Regulations/General Health and Safety 55 Pa. Code §3270.14/3270.21
The facility's written policies on shaken baby syndrome, abusive head trauma, and child maltreatment did not include the identification and prevention of child maltreatment.
Center’s plan of correction (implemented, Mar 27, 2026): “The shaken baby syndrome, abusive head trauma, and child maltreatment policy will be amended to include the identification and prevention of child maltreatment. A written copy will be submitted.”
Citation Feb 13, 2026 Inspection Training & qualifications
Director qualifications/Exp, educ., training prior to facility 55 Pa. Code §3270.34(b)/3270.192(2)(ii)
The facility lacked a qualified director. The record of the person identified as the facility director did not contain written verification of education and experience for their director position.
Center’s plan of correction (implemented, Mar 16, 2026): “We will obtain and submit written verification of education and experience for the identified staff person.”

“Core safety” marks citations about supervision and staff ratios, discipline and caregiver conduct, background checks, child protection and safe sleep, the topics our score weights most. Pennsylvania’s records don’t grade violations by severity. “Follow-up” marks a violation re-cited at a follow-up visit, counted once. How scores work.

Enforcement actions

Issuance of Provisional Certificate of Compliance at the time of Initial Apr 14, 2026
COMPASS status: Pending Appeal

Negative sanctions Pennsylvania lists for this center, such as a downgrade to a provisional certificate, refusing to renew or revoking its certificate of compliance, with the status COMPASS shows. “Operation permitted” means the center may keep operating while it appeals; “operation not permitted” means it may not.

Daily rates

Age group Full time, per day Part time, per day
Infant (6 Weeks-12 mos.) $66.00 $50.00
Young Toddler (13-24 mos.) $60.00 $46.00
Older Toddler (25-36 mos.) $60.00 $46.00
Preschool (37 mos.- Entering K) $55.00 $42.00
Young School-Age (K-3rd gr.) $55.00 $42.00
Older School-Age (4th gr.-15 yrs.) $55.00 $42.00

The daily price the center lists in Pennsylvania’s COMPASS search for families paying privately. The state notes that rates are subject to change and programs don’t have to share them, so confirm with the center. See what daycare costs in Pennsylvania.

About this center

Capacity 19 children
Certificate status Provisional (COMPASS: awaiting renewal)
Certificate dated through Sep 30, 2026 (renewal pending)
Keystone STARS No STAR level
Operator Elevated Scholars Learning Academy
Hours Monday–Sunday 7:30 AM–6:00 PM How Pennsylvania centers’ hours compare
Phone (835) 273-9203
State certificate # CER-00254120
Parent reviews Google Maps reviews
Not checked by Daycare Record

Common questions

Has Elevated Scholars Learning Academy had any serious violations?

Pennsylvania cited 1 violation since 2021 on the topics Daycare Record treats as core safety (supervision, staff ratios, discipline, background checks, child protection or safe sleep). The most recent, on Jul 22, 2026 (background checks): “During the renewal inspection on 7/22/26 the file reviewed for staff person #1, identified as the director, hired (see code sheet) contained a PA criminal clearance dated 5/19/21 and child abuse dated 6/3/21 which is…” Pennsylvania’s records don’t grade violations by severity; each citation is listed in full above.

Have there been complaints about Elevated Scholars Learning Academy?

Pennsylvania lists no complaint investigation that found a violation at Elevated Scholars Learning Academy since 2021. Its search shows these “verified complaints” but not what a complaint alleged, or whether every violation relates to it.

How does Elevated Scholars Learning Academy compare with other daycares in Philadelphia?

It is tied for #1,144 of 1,163 centers in Philadelphia by topic-weighted citations per inspection, and has more citations per inspection than 96% of Pennsylvania certified centers with enough inspection history to compare.

When was Elevated Scholars Learning Academy last inspected?

Jul 22, 2026 (renewal). The state cited at least one violation during that visit.

How much does Elevated Scholars Learning Academy cost?

It reported full-time daily rates of $66.00 for infant, $60.00 for young toddler, $60.00 for older toddler, $55.00 for preschool in Pennsylvania’s COMPASS search. Rates can change; confirm with the center.

Who runs Elevated Scholars Learning Academy?

The legal entity on its Pennsylvania certificate is Elevated Scholars Learning Academy.

Certified centers nearby

Citations are quoted from Pennsylvania Department of Human Services inspection records (Office of Child Development and Early Learning, Bureau of Certification Services), including each finding and the center’s plan of correction. Rule numbers refer mostly to 55 Pa. Code Chapter 3270, the rules for child care centers; a few cite Chapter 20, which covers every certified facility. Pennsylvania’s records don’t grade violations by severity; the “core safety” label and the score are Daycare Record’s.

To check the state’s own record, search the center’s name on COMPASS Child Care Provider Search and open its inspection history. Data refreshed Oct 16, 2026.

Comparing centers? See how to choose a daycare: 30 questions to ask and a printable checklist.

Concerned about this center? See how to report a daycare: which state line to call, what to write down and what happens next.