Tilden Middle School
Tilden Middle School, located in the Elmwood neighborhood of Southwest Philadelphia, is a public school serving students in grades 5–8. As part of the School District of Philadelphia, Tilden offers rigorous academics, enrichment opportunities, and a welcoming environment where every student is valued.
Quicklinks
Principal’s Message
Welcome to Tilden Middle School
Welcome to Tilden Middle School!
It is an honor to join the Tilden family and lead this vibrant community. I step into this role with deep respect for Tilden’s legacy of resilience, achievement, and partnership, and excitement for what we will build together.
As a proud graduate of Philadelphia public schools and a first-generation college student, I know firsthand that access to an excellent education can change a child’s life and strengthen entire communities. My journey reflects what is possible when students are supported by caring adults who believe in their potential.
Every child at Tilden deserves high-quality instruction, rigorous and engaging learning experiences, and adults who know, challenge, and support them. Our students deserve a school where they are seen, valued, and pushed to succeed.
At Tilden, we are committed to a safe, supportive, joyful, and academically challenging environment where students can grow, find their voice, and thrive. Our work is grounded in strong relationships, equity, excellence, accountability, and joy.
We are a village, and student success depends on all of us—educators, families, community partners, and students working together. Every role matters.
Families are essential partners in this work. I am committed to transparency, open communication, and collaboration as we honor Tilden’s legacy and build on its strengths.
Together, we will create a school where every student is known, valued, challenged, and inspired. At Tilden, potential will never be left to chance.
I am honored to serve as your principal and excited for all we will accomplish together.
With Tilden pride,
Jessica Culp
Principal
Calendar
District Academic Calendar
The School District of Philadelphia provides an official academic calendar each year that includes start and end dates, holidays, report card conferences, and more.
Our School
Our MISSION at Tilden Middle School is to provide a rigorous and engaging learning environment in every classroom that nurtures leadership, perseverance, integrity, curiosity, and kindness in order for our students to discover, develop, and communicate the skills and content necessary for college and career success in the 21st Century.
Attendance & Bell Schedule
Attendance
- Lateness: Students admitted from 8:15 AM or later are considered late
- Half Day: Any school district-initiated half day will begin at 8:15 AM and end at 12:19 PM
For details on early dismissals, inclement weather procedures, delayed openings, and emergency closings, please refer to the Parent & Student Handbook.
Attendance matters! The consistency for both students and teachers is critical to success. Consequences can come from excessive or unexcused absences.
- Attendance Policy
- Absence Excuse Form
- Helpful information, toolkits, and other resources to support your child’s attendance success
Bell Schedule
Specific student schedules may differ depending on class sections.
| Class Title | Time |
|---|---|
| School Entry Begins | 7:45 AM |
| Breakfast | 7:45 – 8:05 AM |
| Advisory | 8:15 – 8:30 AM |
| Period 1 | 8:32 – 9:17 AM |
| Period 2 | 9:19 – 10:04 AM |
| Period 3 | 10:06 – 10:51 AM |
| Period 4 | 10:53 – 11:23 AM |
| Period 5 | 11:25 AM – 12:10 PM |
| Period 6 | 12:12 – 12:57 PM |
| Period 7 | 12:59 – 1:44 PM |
| Period 8 | 1:46 – 2:31 PM |
| Period 9 | 2:33 – 3:19 PM |
| Lunch Times | |
| 5th / 6th Grade Lunch | 12:27 – 12:57 PM |
| 7th Grade Lunch | 10:55 – 11:23 AM |
| 8th Grade Lunch | 10:40 AM – 12:10 PM |
Programs, Clubs & Sports
Tilden Middle School offers several programs during the school day to broaden the horizons of our scholars. We offer a variety of activities and clubs geared toward student interests and abilities.
Music & Wellness
- Music Program – Students can take lessons in drums, violin, and a variety of wind instruments.
- Social Emotional Learning (SEL) – Small group SEL sessions are available through our Climate Staff, Safety Officers, Counselors, and Behavioral Therapists.
Sports
Participation in sports requires a completed physical form signed by a doctor.
- Basketball
- Track
- Soccer
- Girls’ Flag Football
Extracurricular Clubs & Activities
- Southwest Philly PAL Center
- Project L.Y.F.T
- Hydroponic Gardening
- Crochet Club
- Robotics Club
- Homework Help
- Cycling Club
Community Partnerships
- Southwest Philly PAL Center
- Project L.Y.F.T
- Methodist Services
Student Handbook & Policies
Policies
- Attendance
- Dress Code – Uniforms
- Cell Phone Policy
- Report Bullying, Harassment, or Discrimination
- Student Health & Safety
Annual Notification of Rights under FERPA
The School District of Philadelphia is required to annually notify parents and eligible students of their rights under the Family Educational Rights and Privacy Act (FERPA). These rights include the right to inspect and review education records, request amendments, consent to disclosures, and file a complaint.
For questions, please contact the Office of Student Rights and Responsibilities.
Uniforms
The School District of Philadelphia has adopted a mandatory uniform policy for all students in Kindergarten through grade twelve. By fully embracing a uniform policy, we work purposefully to promote a positive school climate and instill self-pride in our students and school community.
Everyday Uniform:
- Black or White shirt
- Khaki pants or skirt
- Black shoes
NOT Permitted:
- Shorts that are more than 3 inches above the knee
- Skirts that are more than 3 inches above the knee
- Clothing with inappropriate sayings or symbols
- Excessively ripped shirts and/or pants
- Crop tops
- Sandals or open-toed shoes
See our uniform policy for more details.
At A Glance
Principal
Jessica Culp
Grade Levels: 5-8
Learning Network: 1
Student Enrollment: 281
Phone: 215-400-8170
Fax: 215-400-8171
Address:
6601 Elmwood Ave,
Philadelphia, PA 19142
SEPTA – Trip Planner
Academics
Our Vision for Tilden Middle School students is to achieve the highest levels of academic growth, be well-rounded in their interests and abilities, and be recognized in the community for outstanding leadership. To accomplish this, we use a combination of rigorous blended learning academic lessons, Social Emotional Learning techniques, Relationships First restorative justice practices, and Positive Behavior Reinforcement (PBIS).
View our full academic overview to learn more about our curriculum and academic programs.
Multilingual Curriculum & Programs - Language Access Support Services - ESOL services
The School District of Philadelphia provides a variety of programs and services in many languages to support our multilingual families. Students whose first language is not English may qualify for ESOL services.
Need Help? Contact your school’s Bilingual Counseling Assistant
Programs & Services
- Multilingual Curriculum and Programs
Learn more about the different programs and opportunities offered for multilingual students and families, and to get assistance with any District-related questions or processes.
- Language Access Support Services
Learn more about accessing interpretation/translation services, including Bilingual Counseling Assistants (BCAs) assigned to your school, and other resources. - Language Access Concern
Your feedback is essential in helping us improve language access within our District. If you’ve encountered a language-related challenge, such as a communication barrier, translation issue, or interpretation challenge, your input helps us improve our services.
Special Education - Accommodations - Specialized Services
Tilden is committed to providing specialized services to children in the least restrictive environment, as required by the law. Students receive accommodations and modifications as outlined in their Individualized Educational Program (IEP).
The District provides an extensive range of educational services and supports for students with diverse needs within our schools.
Learn more about Parent Information Sessions, Special Education Programs
Summer Programs
Visit the District Summer Programs site for additional opportunities for your student over the summer.
Enrollment
Welcome to Tilden Middle School! We’re excited to welcome new students in Grades 5-8.
Not sure if Tilden is your neighborhood school? Check with the School Finder Tool
Student Pathway
Tilden students usually follow this path:
➔ K–5:
➔ 5–8: William T. Tilden Middle School
➔ 9–12: John Bartram High School
This pathway ensures a continuous educational course within the School District of Philadelphia, providing students with a cohesive academic experience from elementary through high school.
Students can explore alternative school options each fall during the School Selection Process.
Health & Wellness
School Nurse
Our school nurse provides immediate care for health concerns, conducts required screenings, and supports students’ overall wellness.
For details on medication administration, mandated screenings, immunizations, and other health services, please refer to the Parent & Student Handbook.
➔ Need Help? Contact your School Nurse
Immunization Requirements & Health Services
Pennsylvania law requires all students to be fully immunized or officially exempt before attending school. This is mandated by the PA Department of Health, Philadelphia County Board of Health, and the School District of Philadelphia.
➔ Learn about immunizations, physicals, and wellness programs
Mental Health Resources
Find free support, counseling, and tools to care for your mental well-being.
➔ View Resources
Vaping/Smoking Resources
Family guides, free tools, and support to help quit vaping or smoking.
➔ View Resources
Resources
Parent & Family
Parent and Family Portal
➜ Log in to the Parent & Family Portal to view school announcements, messages from your child’s teacher, and access grades, test scores, attendance, immunization records, and report cards.
Family Hub
➜ Visit the Family Hub for help with registration, academics, special education, English learner support, student records, transportation, and more.
Google Classroom
➜ Log in to Google Classroom using your student’s Chromebook and District credentials to view classwork and homework. For help, see the Google Classroom Login Directions.
Chromebook Support
➜ Get Chromebook help and support including repair locations, resources, and FAQs.
Transportation
➜ View transportation services for bus routes, bus status, the Flat Rate Program, and support.
Accommodations & Multilingual Support
➜ Request translation or accessibility accommodations for any school or District event.
AHERA Inspection Reports
➜ View AHERA inspection reports for asbestos material status and school-specific details.
Students
Student Hub
➜ Visit the Student Hub for help with academics, athletics, records, college & career planning, CTE programs, and more.
Working Papers
➜ Learn more about how to obtain working papers.
Get Involved
Parent & Family University
Parent & Family University provides free resources, courses, and support to help parents and families engage with their children, schools, and community.
➜ Learn more about Parent & Family University
Volunteer
We love parent involvement! Make a positive impact at our school by volunteering your time and talents.
➜ Find out how to become a volunteer
School Advisory Councils (SACs)
SACs are peer-elected groups of family members, school staff, students (grades 7–12), and community members who work together to support academic success and strengthen school partnerships.
➜ Learn more about School Advisory Councils
Contact Us
Stay Connected
- Staff Directory
- Contact Central Office
Get help with registration, academics, special education, English learner support, student records, transportation, and more. - Parent Portal
View grades, test scores, attendance, immunization records, report cards and more. - Google Classroom
To view your student’s classwork and homework - Class Dojo
Stay updated about school events, announcements, and important information.
Address:
6601 Elmwood Ave,
Philadelphia, PA 19142
SEPTA – Trip Planner
Something Missing? Broken Link?