From the beginning, the mission of the Cheltenham Township Adult School has been to provide educational, cultural, vocational and recreational opportunities for adults in Cheltenham Township and neighboring communities.

In 1939, a forward-looking group of women and men established an independent non-profit educational program for adults living in and near Cheltenham Township. Now, more than seventy years later, their experiment has become a respected educational tradition. The mission continues as CTAS has grown from that first semester in 1939, when 27 courses were offered, to today, when nearly 100 courses and trips are listed in this catalog.

From that first October opening night, the community has welcomed adult education with enthusiasm. Volunteer board members, assisted by a dedicated office staff, continue to plan, advise and administer the CTAS program. Each member of the board brings unique interests and expertise to the mix. We believe that our success lies in our commitment to diversity.

Cheltenham Township Adult School teachers share their interests, knowledge and skills with others in the community. They are from a variety of backgrounds and ages and, for the most part, live or work in or near Cheltenham Township.

CTAS is proud of the fact that it draws a diverse group of interested students. Over the years, residents of Philadelphia and other townships have joined those of Cheltenham Township in bringing their intellectual curiosity and enthusiasm to CTAS.

The contributions of board members, staff, students and teachers continue to make CTAS an outstanding example of community education.

CTAS, is a charitable (c)(3) not-for-profit organization. We are not affiliated with or financially supported by Cheltenham Township or the School District. CTAS appreciates the privilege of renting office space, classrooms and other areas at Cheltenham High School and the Community Centers.