Two Mastery Charter Schools designated a Title 1 Distinguished School
The Pennsylvania Department of Education, Division of Federal Programs and Pennsylvania Association of Federal Program Coordinators have recognized two Mastery Charter Schools as top-performing Title 1 schools in the commonwealth for the 2019-20 school year. Smedley Elementary was among the schools awarded for the greatest gains in achievement for all student groups. Thomas (which includes both Thomas Elementary and Thomas Campus) was awarded for being in the top 5% for growth in the two most recently completed academic years.
“Our Smedley family is so proud to be receiving this recognition. We have an amazing community of students, teachers, and families who have worked incredibly hard. We are beyond excited to be celebrated as a distinguished school as we celebrate our 10th year,” said Caitlin Murphy, Smedley principal.
“This recognition is such an honor for the entire Thomas Elementary school community and reflects the exceptionally hard work of our children,” said Thomas Elementary Principal Emily Myers. “I am deeply humbled to be able to lead a school full of dedicated, brilliant teachers who go above and beyond for kids each and every day in the classroom and in their work and partnership with our families.”
“I am thrilled that Thomas has been recognized as one of the top Title I schools in the state. Our staff, students, and families deserve all the credit and congratulations as this achievement comes from their hard work and partnership,” said Peter Langer, Thomas Campus principal.
Schools were selected based on data from the 2018-2019 and 2017-2018 school years, which is the most recent academic data available.
Both Smedley and Thomas recently had their charters renewed by the Philadelphia Board of Education. Nearly 2,400 parents, staff and community members signed petitions in support of the renewals.