More than 50 students received their diplomas from Casa del Carmen Preschool Academy in a June 22 ceremony at Holy Innocents Parish in Philadelphia. The learning center, which has earned top marks from the state’s education department, provides culturally responsive education that prepares kids for kindergarten.

An outreach of archdiocesan Catholic Social Services (CSS), the city-licensed academy receives seasonal funding for preschool tuition through the Philadelphia beverage tax, and year-round support through Catholic Charities funds.

Located in the Philadelphia’s Hunting Park section, the academy is one of the many programs offered through Casa del Carmen, a CSS family service center that has assisted the Latino population of North Philadelphia since 1954.

Read a feature story about Casa del Carmen’s Preschool Academy, and watch a video of the school’s graduation highlights.