From the Notebook on the opening of the Mastery Charter Smedley Elementary School (1790 Bridge Street):

By 8:30 in the morning on September 1, all of the fourth and fifth graders at the new Mastery Charter Smedley Elementary School in Frankford were assembled in the sweltering cafeteria for a combination PowerPoint presentation and pep rally.

“On the screen, you see a big eraser,” preached Brian McLaughlin, Smedley’s energetic new principal who, at 27, is just a few years removed from a stint as a Teach for America corps members at Stetson Middle School.

“I want you to think of all the things from last year that may not have been things you liked,” said McLaughlin. “We’re going to erase those right now.” Photo: Benjamin Herold
Taking a breather on the first day back to school.

Mastery opened Smedley, Mann, and Harrity Elementary schools on September 1, and Young Scholars Charter School opened Douglass Elementary on August 31. For both, the focus of the weeklong head start is establishing a new school culture and new expectations.

The education of these children is the only hope we have.  See this link on the dropout rate in Philadelphia.

On September 2nd at the Boys and Girls Club.

The School District of Philadelphia is sponsoring two events, next Tuesday, June 29th and Wednesday, June 30th! On Tuesday, June 29th, in the Auditorium of the School District’s Education Center, a panel discussion to engage parents and students through the arts. Meet Quinton Aaron, the actor from the movie “The Blind Side” and Helena Cortez, an acress and entertainment consultant. The specific information is posted below!

Then on Wednesday, June 30th, Superintendent Arlene Ackerman invites you to attend the Superintendent’s Parent Roundtable for dinner and a program featuring Moms for Peace Antio-Violence Workshop and a Conversation with the Superintendent. The specific information is posted below.

Finally, here is a link to the Summer 2010 Program Description and Course Offerings for Parent University. Research has shown and we know that when parents are actively involved in learning themselves, this increases a child’s opportunity for success! Check it out and participate!!!!!

From the Northood Civic:

IMPORTANT NOTICE!

Northwood Academy Charter School proposes to construct a new building on the grounds of the school. There will be a public information meeting on Monday, June 28, 2010, 6:00 PM. Enter through the double red doors on the Adams Avenue side of the building.

Please attend – and bring your neighbors!

That is the title of the education summit scheduled for June 12th at 8:00 AM.  Take a look at the flier below.