Parents sharing the process of searching for a school in Greater Philadelphia. What kind of school are you looking for? Charter, public, private, city, suburban?
This is one parent’s opinion on why they chose Masterman. Help other parents–take five minutes to complete an anonymous survey to tell PSS and our readers about your school choice!
Date Submitted: 4/28/2011
What school did you decide on? Masterman
Calendar year your child entered/will enter 2003
Grade your child entered/will enter 5
What neighborhood are you in? Fairmount
What schools did you consider? The Philadelphia School – for Middle School
Friends Select, Central, Science Leadership Academy – for High School
What factors were most important to you? Tuition, Location, Reputation, Public Eduction, School Performance (test scores, success of graduates), Diversity
What first attracted you to the school? The quality of the graduates – the test scores tell the story, as do the colleges they attend.
What were the critical factors that led to your choice? The high caliber of the students and the diversity are what make Masterman special. Masterman has a reputation with some of being the “public school that is more like a private school” but that is so incorrect. We have kids from every neighborhood in the city and every income level. The facilities are not pristine – but there are two critical factors that run true with almost every family. First, the family values education and invests their energy into the success of their child. Second, the kids are above average bright. This combination is powerful. The kids feed off each other and take great pride in being among the brightest. Some work very hard for it. To others it comes easier. But just walk in the school and you will see every race, color and religion in Philadelphia. This urban success story is a best practice that should be replicated.
Did you relocate in order to choose this school? No
On the political spectrum, I consider myself to be liberal
Please share anything else about your experience Masterman is not right for all kids. They take about 200 5th graders and keep that class size through 8th grade. Then you must re-apply to the high school. Many students choose to leave for other schools. Those that really love academics want to stay. The graduating class of about 100 is a close-knit group of eclectic kids from all walks of life, and a true understanding of urban life and and education that works.
This is one parent’s opinion on why they chose Masterman. Help other parents–take five minutes to complete an anonymous survey to tell PSS and our readers about your school choice!
Len Lipkin
PSS Community