Philadelphia, PA – Not all students in Pennsylvania have the same opportunities. All too often, the quality of education they receive depends on their zip code. However, there are alternatives, especially for those who feel they are losing hope.
Esperanza Cyber Charter School (ECCS) employs around 160 education professionals in Pennsylvania and Puerto Rico, including administrative and teaching staff, half of whom are bilingual. They serve nearly 1000 students, many of whom have faced challenges in traditional in-person schooling, and others who are simply looking for another high-quality alternative for their education.
Among them are young mothers who have found the support they need in virtual education to continue their studies, bullied students who now have a safe space to learn, and neurodivergent students—about 20% of the student body—who have an Individualized Education Plan (IEP) and receive comprehensive education tailored to their development.
Founded in 2012 by the Esperanza organization, Esperanza Cyber Charter School (ECCS) was created in response to a growing need: to offer high-quality public education in a flexible and accessible format. Located in the heart of North Philadelphia, ECCS serves students from kindergarten through 12th grade, combining technology, personalized support, and a strong commitment to the statewide community
All of this takes place in a culturally responsive environment, where newly arrived immigrants or children of immigrants feel embraced by teachers and staff who work with passion and a deep understanding that every student deserves help in overcoming the barriers they face.
ECCS responds to challenges stemming from discrimination, unsafe environments, and mental health issues—problems that have increased across the population and affect many young people.
On August 18, just one week before ECCS students return to class, staff from both Pennsylvania and Puerto Rico gathered for a training session led by by the school’s CEO, Dr. Jon Marsh.
The meeting served to train teachers, share ideas, and address questions, all with the shared goal of helping students achieve their goals and prepare for the real world.
Among those at the training was Yanluis Figueroa, who, like other graduates, returned to work at ECCS after completing his studies.
His teachers are proud of him for giving back, and describe him as tenacious, courteous, and hardworking. Yanluis is grateful for the life skills training he received alongside his academic preparation.
Esperanza Cyber Charter School represents a commitment to educational equity in the digital age.
In a world where technology is redefining learning, ECCS opens the door for those seeking a second chance, a new way to learn, and a path to success—education at your own pace
Other ECCS students have taken advantage of the opportunity to earn credits from Esperanza College, saving up to two years of higher education and graduating with both a high school diploma and an associate degree.
Jasmina Campos-Rivera, daughter of Guatemalan immigrants and ECCS’s Executive Director of Operations, shares that enrollment is open year-round. She emphasizes that staff are committed to ensuring that students from across Pennsylvania complete their studies and earn their diplomas. However, ECCS’ mission extends beyond that: they aim to prepare students for success in life and provide various resources to support them in achieving this goal.
Ivan Estevez, Chief Academic Officer at ECCS and originally from the Dominican Republic, discusses the importance of supporting parents, particularly by helping them understand virtual learning in their own language and guiding them through the necessary technology and resources.
The ECCS educational model is designed for students who need an alternative to the traditional classroom. Whether due to personal, work-related, or health reasons, many young people find in cyber education an opportunity to continue their studies without physical barriers
The training event also featured Rev. Luis Cortés, founder and CEO of Esperanza, who delivered an inspiring speech emphasizing the importance of educating a generation facing significant challenges by fostering critical thinking.
He encouraged educators to make the most of the Esperanza ecosystem, which offers a wide range of opportunities for students and their families through its educational, recreational, and advancement programs. Parents interested in exploring ECCS for their child or children can visit esperanzacyber.org at any time.
