Promise Academy Design Framework
(Information to be considered by School Community in Responding to Promise Academy Application)
WHAT is a Promise Academy?
A Philadelphia PROMISE ACADEMY is a Renaissance Eligible School that will be developed and overseen by the Superintendent and the central office staff she appoints for this purpose. Promise Academies will be staffed and managed by District employees with union affiliations.
By definition, a PROMISE causes hope, expectation, and the assurance of future distinction —as in “youth of great promise.”
WHAT principles will guide the selection of PROMISE ACADEMY staff?
Key to the success of every Promise Academy is a consistent, unified, energetic, and committed staff of adults who feel and act accountable.
1. In partnership, the PFT and District Administration share a mutual goal: to get the best teachers in the most challenging schools.
2. Beginning with an intensive summer training program, all staff will engage in ongoing professional development.
3. Staff members will demonstrate a sincere commitment to the Academy program, a deeply held conviction in the promise and potential of every child, and personal responsibility as active members of a learning community.
4. Once released from contract obligations, staff will be invited to re-apply for their positions (the enrollment of children will not be affected).
5. STAFF – will include a fulltime nurse, social worker, a school psychologist, a parent ombudsman, and a student advisor to provide a full service, holistic education for all.
WHAT will a PROMISE ACADEMY look like?
Required Elements for Promise Academies· A highly structured academic program – including the District’s Core Curriculum and interventions for reading and math
· Programs to address English Language Learner, Special Education, and mentally gifted students
· After school enrichment, extracurricular activities, and athletics
· Parent involvement including a parent association and at least quarterly parent/teacher meetings or conferences
· On-site Parent University
· Parent Compacts
· World Language Study – exploratory in grades K-5, multiple language offerings in high school
· Longer school day and year than the existing School District calendar
· Specific programming for college and work readiness
· Specialized services for children with social, emotional, and behavioral issues
· Specific programming to ensure school culture that promotes a safe and secure learning environment
· Community involvement including a defined role for parents and community to ensure faithful implementation of education plan
· Ongoing assessments of student performance and creation of data driven instructional program
· Professional development for all staff
· Targeted academic supports and interventions for students performing below grade level
· Plan for incorporating technology to support a rigorous instructional program
· School uniforms for all students
· Special incentive programs
WHAT are some examples of activities and enrichment opportunities that will be offered at Promise Academies?
Field trips – cultural, historical, scientific, etc. (Saturday School)
CREATIVE/PERFORMANCE:
· Art and/or photography classes
· Instrumental & vocal music (with choir and concert performances)
· Drama classes
· Dance classes
· Creative writing (with poetry slams)
· Fashion Design and Drawing
ATHLETIC/COMPETITIVE:
· Wii Fitness Program
· Gymnastics Classes
· Martial Arts
· Yoga Classes
· Aerobics Classes
· Exercise and Nutrition Classes
· Basketball Skill Training
· Weight Training
ACADEMIC/BRAIN CHALLENGES:
· Chess Club
· Forensics & Debating Club
· Forensic Science Club
· Academic Decathlon
· Dinosaur & Paleontology Club
· Public Speaking & Politics Club
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