Devereux, one of the nation’s largest nonprofit providers of behavioral healthcare, has been delivering high-quality, innovative special education programming in Landenberg since 2023. 

The Devereux Day Academy – Landenberg, an Approved Private School, serves students in grades K-8 with the following primary diagnoses: intellectual disabilities, autism spectrum disorders, emotional disturbances, learning disabilities and speech and language impairments.

The Day Academy’s core curriculum is aligned with the Pennsylvania Core Standards, as well as the curricula of Devereux Pennsylvania Children’s Services’ partner school districts. This alignment facilitates smooth transitions for students to and from the program, and their local schools.

“We are committed to meeting the unique needs of each student,” said Devereux Day Academy – Landenberg Education Director Deb Thompson, Ed.D. “Many students struggle socially and emotionally in school which, in turn, can lead to academic challenges. Students are referred to us by their home school districts because we offer the supports they need to help them overcome challenges and return to their local schools. These supports include smaller class sizes and dedicated staff who have the passion – and compassion – to help students succeed.”

Thompson credits Devereux Day Academy – Landenberg’s outstanding staff with helping students feel welcomed and supported.

“Our staff are incredible – they listen to, and support, our students and help them overcome whatever challenges they face,” Thompson explained. “We are like a family – we welcome everyone who walks through our doors.

“The Day Academy’s vision is to provide strategies and supports so our students are able to return to their home school districts successfully,” Thomson continued. “In the past year, several students have transitioned to their local school districts, and more are expected to return in the coming months.”

Offering five Approved Private Schools 

As part of its continuum of care, Devereux Pennsylvania Children’s Services operates five Approved Private Schools in Chester County, including Devereux Day Academy – Landenberg, along with a Day Academy in Montgomery County.

The schools feature small class sizes, with a maximum of eight students per classroom. Classes are staffed with a special education teacher and a teacher assistant, and a full-time mental health specialist is on site. 

Curriculum includes Pennsylvania standard (Common Core) and PSSA/Keystone program alignment. Academic extension activities include field trips and community-based instruction. The schools also offer career exploration and weekly transition activities.

Innovative programming meets students’ needs

Devereux Pennsylvania Children’s Services’ education offerings continue to evolve and expand based on the needs of students.

“We are excited to launch our new literacy program and enhance our career and technical programs,” shared Devereux Pennsylvania Children’s Services Director of Student Services Joseph Fullerton, Ed.D. “These initiatives will provide our students with the skills they need to secure employment in the community once they have moved on from Devereux.”

Devereux Vice President of Education Services Colleen Katzenmoyer, Ed.D., says collaboration and communication are critical to the success of the organization’s schools. 

“All students have an Individualized Education Program, which maps out specific goals for academic and behavioral skill development,” said Katzenmoyer. “We collaborate closely with families and local school districts to ensure a smooth transition, equipping students with the tools they need to succeed when they return to their home schools and communities.”

Referring students to Devereux’s Day Academy 

All Devereux Pennsylvania Children’s Services’ Approved Private Schools are licensed by the Pennsylvania State Board of Private Academic Schools and accept 4010 placements. 

To make a referral, call (267) 418-9623, or email [email protected]. 

Contact information for the Devereux Day Academy – Landenberg: 

Phone: (267) 892-1905
email: [email protected]

Address: 20 McMaster Blvd., Suites 3 and 4, Landenberg, PA

About Devereux Pennsylvania Children’s Services

Devereux Pennsylvania Children’s Services supports children, adolescents and young adults, from birth to age 21, with autism spectrum disorders and intellectual and developmental disabilities, and offers intensive services for at-risk youth with emotional, behavioral and cognitive differences. Each year, more than 2,500 individuals receive specialized care, in the environment best suited to the unique challenges they face, all with the goal of providing them with the academic, social, emotional and life skills needed to flourish in the homes, schools and communities. Learn more: www.devereuxpa.org

About Richard F. Dunlap Jr., Ed.D.
As executive director of Devereux Pennsylvania Children’s Services, Richard F. Dunlap Jr., Ed.D., brings more than 40 years of education, administration and organizational development experience to this position. Prior to joining Devereux in 2024, Dunlap spent eight years at Chester County Regional Education Services (CCRES), most recently in the role of executive director. He also served as interim superintendent of the Coatesville Area School District (2019-2020 and 2022-2023). Before his time at CCRES, Dunlap held the following positions: superintendent of the Upper Darby School District; principal of East High School in West Chester; principal of Garnet Valley School District; assistant principal of East High School; assistant principal of Fugett Middle School in West Chester; and teacher at East High School. He also served as an officer in the United States Marine Corps.

Dunlap earned his Bachelor of Science in special education from West Chester State College; a Master of Arts in bilingual/bicultural studies from Marywood College; and a Doctorate of Education from Immaculata College. He also holds a secondary principal’s certification from Immaculata College. He is a recipient of the “Superintendents to Watch” award (2015-2016) from the National School Public Relations Association.