The system is broken and we have to fix it. The future of this city depends on the state of our public school system. When I am elected to the State Senate, Education will be my top priority. The 2nd Senatorial District has recently experienced one of the largest population growth in the city and is now the most diverse district in the state. This district, like the rest of the city, deserves a portfolio of good education opportunities in every neighborhood.
In collaboration with the Philadelphia School Reform Commission and the School District of Philadelphia, I will propose the creation of a pilot Independent School District that incorporates a collective impact model to curriculum, pedagogy and other direct and indirect education-related activities. Students' educational experience will be viewed from a holistic perspective instead of a purely academic approach. Teachers will be provided with the tools, resources and supports to successfully engage students and stakeholders. This all hands on deck approach (currently being utilized successfully in Cincinnati) will bring together parent groups and leaders from all sectors; the corporate, philanthropic, university, government, business, charter school, school district, education advocacy, and non-profit sectors, along with other important partners who will be charged with developing a plan that will boost student achievement across the board while also preparing our children to be productive members of society.
The plan will ensure that all families in the district network will have quality educational choices. In addition, K-12 public charter school networks will be developed where possible to provide continuity and accountability. Charters will work with traditional public schools to provide families with seamless public school options in every neighborhood.
During planning stages, this long-term pilot project will evaluate the capacity and needs of each individual school in the newly formed system then develop best practices approaches that seek to address the needs of that particular school's student population. To ensure student improvement, student progress will be continuously monitored on a wide range of success indicators, not just teaching to the test. By constantly monitoring progress, students' potential problems will be identified and early intervention can occur.
This initiative will provide for a flexible, student-centered, reform-oriented education system where positive improvements are constantly sought and the schools are held accountable for student achievement. It will be a game changer that will provide a quality education for all of our children while developing their personal character so they can maximize their potential and become productive members of society.
Other features of this plan include:
Restructured school days
Restructured school year
Magnet school, 4-12 grades
Increased early childhood programming
Increased resources to support teacher development
Internet-based educational instruction availability for all students at home and school
Creation of a fund (paid for by Marcellus Shale drill tax) for students to attend the school of their choice, public or private
Life skills instruction
Character development programming
Restorative justice intervention programs
Increased vocational skills instruction
Improved family support services network
Civic involvement classes
Community service requirements
School-centered after-school and recreation programming
Parental involvement workshops
Art, music and culture programming in all schools
Increased internships
Partnerships with corporations to develop workplace development programs
Mentoring and development programs for gifted students
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