Welcome to Adaire Elementary!

Alexander Adaire Elementary is a public Pre-kindergarten to 8th grade school in the Fishtown neighborhood of Philadelphia. Our school was established in 1891 and is named after one of Fishtown’s famous residents and advocates for public education, Alexander Adaire. We are proud to continue his legacy by providing excellent public education to our students in the community!


Message From Principal Strain:

I am so excited to be joining the Adaire community and I am looking forward to welcoming students and families back on August 24th!

We are currently in the process of updating our website so for the moment, bear with us. Here’s what you might most need, but don’t hesitate to be in touch if I can help!

  • Bell Schedule: 8:30am – 3:09pm
  • Supply Lists can be found HERE
  • Uniform policy (corrected 7/3):
    • Shirt/Top:  Blue Polo-Style,  Blue Dress Shirt, an Adaire logo t-shirt, or otherwise approved clothing.
    • Pants/Bottoms: Pants, Shorts, Skirts, or Jumpers are expected to be Khaki.
    • Footwear: Needs closed toe and back. Gym Days: Students are expected to wear a navy blue t-shirt and bottoms.  Gym Uniforms can remain on for the remainder of the gym day.
    • Not Permitted:
      Decorations – i.e. strips, checks, non-Adaire approved logos, sequins, etc.
      Blue Jean Material
      Hoodies
      Flip flops, sandals, jellies, clogs, slides or any type of open front or back footwear (including CROCS and UGG slippers)

Message From (Former) Principal Jenkins:

It is with heartfelt emotion that I announce my retirement as Principal of Alexander Adaire School, effective the end of day on July 30th, 2026. After over 31 years of service in the School District of Philadelphia, 23 years as a principal and 12 years at Adaire, I will be passing the torch to a new leader.

I have cherished every moment of my time here at Alexander Adaire and in the School District of Philadelphia. It has been a privilege to serve as a leader in communities all over the City of Philadelphia. My belief in the power of public education is rooted in the inspiring commitment, progress, and dedication I’ve seen in both our staff and our parents. Thank you for the opportunity to be a part of amazing school experiences. I am confident that the school will continue to thrive under new leadership, and I am excited to see the great things that lie ahead for Adaire.

I want to express my deepest gratitude to everyone who has assisted me on this incredible journey. Your support, dedication, and hard work have been instrumental in making Adaire the exceptional place that it is. I will always carry the memories of my time here with me, and I look forward to staying connected with the Adaire community in the future. Thank you for the honor of being the Principal. I wish you ALL continued success and happiness.

With warm regards,

Anna Jenkins
Principal of Alexander Adaire


Upcoming Dates!

Monday, August 24th – First Day of School for Grades 1-8

Thursday, August 27th – First Day of School for Kindergarten

 


 

 

 

We are so grateful for our entire community of students, families and staff!!