WHEREAS, Magnet schools throughout the City have history of success. Magnets are public schools that specifically focus on specialized education in an area of study that appeal to students throughout the School District. Students from all over the District can attend as opposed to those from just one specific geographic area. These schools often require strong grades, good attendance, and behavior requirements; and
WHEREAS, One example of a magnet school is Central High School, which is consistently ranked as one of the top performing high schools in both the City and the Commonwealth. Due to its status as a magnet school, it is frequently regarded as one of the best schools in the nation due their rigorous academic program. In addition, they have specific grade requirements in order to be admitted to a graduating class.
Applicants must have an A or B in Reading, Math, and Social Studies on their final 6th and 7th grade report cards, and students must have a 95% attendance rate in order to gain admission; and
WHEREAS, Science Leadership Academy at Beeber, another example of a magnet school, provides inquiry driven, project-based learning that focuses on developing students’ skills in the core values of inquiry, research, collaboration, presentation, and reflection. In order to be admitted, students must submit project-based presentations to outline their academic abilities. SLA Beeber has both an upper and a lower school to cater to students in 5th-12th grades, provide 1-to-1 laptops for their students, and has a wide-variety of clubs to allow students to explore their unique interests; and
WHEREAS, These schools are extremely successful in preparing students for their future. But unfortunately, there are numerous other underperforming schools in the District that need the attention of this Council body. It is essential for us to understand what these top-performing magnet schools have that other under-performing schools do not have access to. By understanding and making these connections, we can make plans for future success; now, therefore, be it
RESOLVED, BY THE COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF PHILADELPHIA, That it hereby authorizes the City Council Committee on Education to hold public hearings to examine the top performing magnet schools in Philadelphia, understand their strengths in relationship to underperforming schools, and to develop strategies for future success.
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