Keystone Freedom Academy

Business Details

8 Years

experience

Empowering Students with Special Needs Through Restraint-Free Education

Keystone Freedom Academy is a private academic institution dedicated to empowering students facing social, emotional, and behavioral challenges. Founded in 2018, we provide a supportive, restraint-free environment where students in grades 5 - 12 thrive academically and personally. Our trauma-informed care and research-based strategies prioritize student safety, individualized learning, and holistic growth. With a student-to-teacher ratio of 6:1, we offer personalized attention and a rigorous curriculum aligned with Pennsylvania Core Standards. Our team includes experienced educators and administrators committed to fostering academic excellence and emotional well-being.

Accredited by the Middle States Commissions on Elementary and Secondary Schools, we integrate social-emotional learning into every aspect of education. Programs include college readiness, career exploration, and community-based work opportunities. We partner with local businesses and mental health professionals to ensure comprehensive support. Our mission is to help students transition back to public schools or pursue post-secondary success. By combining academic rigor with behavioral support, we create a nurturing environment where students learn to self-advocate and achieve lifelong success.

Services

Special Education Programs Trauma-Informed Care College Readiness Career Exploration Dual Enrollment Courses Social-Emotional Learning Credit Recovery Community Partnerships Individual Counseling Technology Integration

Details

Year established: 2018

Highlights and features

Middle States-accredited special education programs with individualized learning plans
Ukeru System ensures a restraint-free, trauma-informed environment for student safety
1:1 technology integration and STREAM-focused academic curriculum
College readiness programming with dual enrollment partnerships
Community-based work opportunities and career exploration programs

Associations and certifications

Middle States Commissions on Elementary and Secondary Schools

What people say

Amazing school Thrived in this environment Helped control emotions Great staff Safe learning environment

Website

Update Listing

Services

Special Education Programs

Our special education programs cater to students with social, emotional, and behavioral challenges. We provide individualized learning plans, a 6:1 student-to-teacher ratio, and trauma-informed care. Our curriculum aligns with Pennsylvania Core Standards, ensuring academic rigor while addressing emotional needs. Certified educators use evidence-based strategies to foster academic growth and self-regulation skills.

Trauma-Informed Care

Trauma-informed care is central to our approach. We use the Ukeru System to create a restraint-free environment, teaching students self-regulation strategies. Our staff is trained in de-escalation techniques and emotional support. This approach reduces triggers and promotes safety, helping students build resilience and emotional stability through personalized interventions.

College Readiness

College readiness programs prepare students for higher education. We offer dual enrollment courses through partnerships with local colleges, allowing students to earn college credits. Our curriculum includes academic skill-building, study habits, and career exploration. Counselors guide students through the application process and financial aid options, ensuring a smooth transition to post-secondary institutions.

Career Exploration

Career exploration programs connect students with local businesses for hands-on learning. Students gain practical skills through internships, job shadowing, and vocational training. We offer courses in business, healthcare, and criminal justice, preparing students for diverse career paths. Partnerships with community organizations provide real-world experience and networking opportunities.

Social-Emotional Learning

Social-emotional learning (SEL) is integrated into all academic subjects. Our curriculum teaches communication, problem-solving, and self-management skills. Programs like School-Connect foster empathy and emotional regulation. Students participate in group activities and counseling sessions to build interpersonal skills, resilience, and a positive self-identity within a supportive community environment.

People

Dr. Janine M. Mathesz

Founder

Dr. Janine Mathesz has over 30 years of experience in education and leadership. She founded Keystone Freedom Academy to provide a restraint-free environment for students with emotional and behavioral challenges. Her expertise includes trauma-informed care and curriculum development. She previously led innovative programs at The Pathway School and Building 21 Allentown High School.

Mr. Colton Thomsen

Chief Executive Officer

Mr. Colton Thomsen brings extensive business leadership experience to Keystone Freedom Academy. As CEO, he focuses on operational efficiency and strategic partnerships. His background in finance and organizational development drives sustainable growth. He is committed to advancing the school's mission while ensuring financial stability and community engagement.

Dr. Elizabeth M. Criscuolo

Chief Operating Officer

Dr. Elizabeth Criscuolo has a doctorate in special education leadership. She oversees daily operations and student support services at Keystone Freedom Academy. Her expertise includes program development and behavioral interventions. With certifications in special education and leadership, she ensures compliance with educational standards and fosters a collaborative school culture.

Dr. Faith Ann Cheek

Chief Financial Officer

Dr. Faith Ann Cheek manages financial operations and budgeting for Keystone Freedom Academy. She has over 35 years of experience in education administration, including roles as CFO in large school districts. Her focus is on fiscal integrity and ensuring adequate resources for student success. She advocates for transparent budgeting practices and community investment.

Mr. Jordan Fortier

Principal, Warminster Campus

Mr. Jordan Fortier has nearly two decades of experience in education as a teacher and administrator. He leads the Warminster Campus with a focus on student relationships and academic achievement. His background includes curriculum development and school leadership. He is dedicated to creating a supportive environment where students thrive academically and socially.

Questions

What makes Keystone Freedom Academy unique?

We use the Ukeru System for restraint-free behavior management and integrate trauma-informed care into all aspects of education. Our 6:1 student-to-teacher ratio ensures personalized attention.

What grades do you serve?

We serve students in grades 5–12 up to age 21, focusing on those with social, emotional, and behavioral challenges.

Is transportation provided?

Yes, transportation is arranged through the student's home school district, ensuring convenient access to our campuses.

Do you offer college preparation?

Yes, we have dual enrollment partnerships with local colleges and offer college readiness programs to prepare students for higher education.

How are parents involved?

Parents collaborate with our team to develop individualized education plans and participate in regular progress updates and family engagement activities.

What accreditation do you hold?

We are accredited by the Middle States Commissions on Elementary and Secondary Schools, ensuring high academic and operational standards.

Reviews (4)

Write a Review

Robert Kline

Dec 20, 2021 Report

This school did wonders for me. I was always struggling in school, I would pass by D's and C's. I have been in KFA for a year a half. The first year I passed with straight A's. The work was hard but they didn't just help me with the problems they taught me ways to work through the problem without help. Also, the small amount of students in each class made me feel comfortable raising my hand and asking questions. You have bad days which is normal but, the staff is always there for you and there to make you more successful in the present and the future.

Wyatt Storey

Dec 08, 2021 Report

I am currently enrolled at Keystone Freedom Academy. I love the staff, students, programming. The staff assist w=me with remaining on-task and help me through difficult situations. Since I have started, I have made significant progress both academically and behaviorally. I would recommend KFA to any student who needs extra help and wants to be in a caring environment.

Christian Gutierrez

Dec 04, 2021 Report

I am a current student at KFA in the 11th grade. I was one of the first students to start here at KFA. In my time here, I have made significant gain academically and socially. Staff have assisted me with gaining employment as well as my diving permit. Overall, KFA has assisted me with growing into the young man I am today. I look forward to what I will accomplish because of KFA in the future!

Faith-Ann Cheek

Dec 04, 2021 Report

Keystone Freedom Academy was founded by highly respected colleague and educator to serve some of our most challenging students. It is the genuine care for the success of their students that makes this organization a leader among its competitors!