Salvaggio Academy, previously recognized as CAI Learning Academy in Allentown, has officially moved to a new, expansive location, marking an exciting chapter for the institution and its students. The academy has signed a multi-year lease for the 29,000 square foot building situated at 3145 Hamilton Blvd., a property still owned by the Da Vinci Science Center. This move from its original address at 1033 Washington St. to the former Da Vinci Science Center building on the Cedar Crest College campus provides a significantly enhanced learning environment.
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The relocation to a college campus is described by Jessica Devlin, Salvaggio Academy’s director of education, as “a dream come true.” This new setting offers an inspiring backdrop for children’s education, play, and overall development. The larger facility is crucial for accommodating the school’s growing number of students. Currently, Salvaggio Academy maintains a commendable 7 to 1 student-to-teacher ratio with approximately 70 students enrolled, and the capacity to welcome up to ninety students in total.
This upgraded facility boasts numerous enhancements, including a newly built Science, Technology, Engineering, Art, and Mathematics (STEAM) lab, a dedicated music room, a gymnasium, and an outdoor play area. Originally established in 2014 as CAI Learning Academy, Salvaggio Academy was founded by Tony Salvaggio, the founder and CEO emeritus of CAI, a multinational services company. His vision was to deliver accessible, high-quality education to families with limited financial resources.
Salvaggio Academy operates on five core principles derived from CAI’s corporate social responsibility program: neurodiversity, sustainability, food accessibility, supportive families, and accessible education. The academy is dedicated to serving kindergarten through fifth-grade students from low-income backgrounds, offering tuition-free attendance through generous scholarships. It’s important to note that Salvaggio Academy’s focus is on general education and does not currently offer special education services. The school’s primary benefactors are CAI and the Salvaggio family.
The transition to the new building also marked the official renaming to Salvaggio Academy, honoring the Salvaggio family and their profound commitment to education. Devlin emphasized that welcoming students to their new school invigorates both the students and the faculty, all dedicated to fostering academic success. She also expressed gratitude for partners, including CAI and the Salvaggio family, for their ongoing support. Students began classes at the new location on Monday, September 9th, ready to embrace the enriched educational opportunities provided by Salvaggio Academy, formerly CAI Learning Academy, in Allentown.
