How to pick the right charter school for your child

charter school
Memphis Street Academy

Choosing the right charter school for your child is a crucial decision that can significantly impact their educational experience and development. Charter schools often offer unique curricula, specialized programs, and flexible learning environments designed to cater to diverse student needs.

However, selecting the right fit requires careful consideration of factors such as the school’s academic performance, teaching philosophy, class sizes, extracurricular opportunities, and alignment with your child’s learning style and interests. By taking the time to research and evaluate these aspects, you can make an informed decision that sets your child up for long-term success.

To help you get started on your search, here is a list of local charter schools that offer a variety of programs and educational experiences.

Memphis Street Academy 

Memphis Street Academy (MSA) is currently accepting students for the 2024-2025 school year. The school, which works with students in grades 5-8, provides a safe, nurturing environment where students thrive academically and socially. Their dedicated staff is committed to supporting the diverse needs of all learners through innovative programs like Evidence-Based Literacy Instruction (EBLI) and individualized learning approaches. MSA also focuses on holistic development, offering vital resources to families, including free school-based health clinics, a free English learning program for parents, and monthly produce giveaways to combat food insecurity. MSA is more than just a school—they are a cornerstone of support for the community. By enrolling your child at MSA, you’re choosing a school that prioritizes student success and well-being both in and out of the classroom.

For more information and to apply, visit ap-schools.org/Memphis-Street-Academy

Lindley Academy 

charter school

Lindley Academy Charter School is dedicated to fostering a supportive and academically enriching environment for students in grades K-8. With a focus on individualized instruction and a commitment to social-emotional learning, Lindley Academy helps students develop both academically and personally. The school offers a diverse curriculum that encourages critical thinking, creativity, and collaboration, ensuring that each student is well-prepared for future success. In addition to academics, Lindley Academy provides various extracurricular activities and support services that nurture students’ growth and well-being.

For information and to apply, visit ap-schools.org/Lindley-Academy or applyphillycharter.org

Tacony Academy

charter school

Tacony Academy Charter School is at the forefront of STEAM education, proudly integrating the groundbreaking Nikola Tesla Curriculum. As the first school in the U.S. to adopt this curriculum, students are immersed in Tesla’s visionary work through a multidisciplinary approach that blends science, technology, engineering, art, and mathematics, preparing them for the challenges of a rapidly advancing world. In addition to this innovative approach, Tacony Academy provides a well-rounded experience that includes a variety of extracurricular activities, support services, and programs aimed at developing leadership, creativity, and personal growth. With a dedicated faculty and a commitment to preparing students for success, Tacony Academy empowers learners to thrive academically and socially in a supportive community.

For information and to apply, visit ap-schools.org/Tacony-Academy-Charter or applyphillycharter.org.  

First Philadelphia

charter school

First Philadelphia Preparatory Charter School (First Philly) serves students from grades K-12 fostering a diverse and inclusive environment that focuses on academic excellence, creativity, and character development. The core of the school’s mission is the belief that the key to learning is literacy. Their mission is actualized through our strong research-based, standards aligned curriculum. Their literacy-based approach guides students to spend equal attention on building reading and writing skills. First Philadelphia Preparatory Charter School believes in student independent reading as well as data-driven small group instruction. Parent workshops as well as reading celebrations are a bright and vibrant way in which the school upholds its mission. First Philly also offers a range of extracurricular activities, as well as support services for families. Music and arts is a long-standing tradition at First Philadelphia and offers electives in these areas.

For information and to apply, visit ap-schools.org/First-Phila-Prep or applyphillycharter.org.

Community Academy of Philadelphia

charter school

Community Academy of Philadelphia (CAP) is a safe, K-12 accredited citywide charter school in Juniata that offers a dynamic education for students filled with opportunities including overseas and out of state possibilities. CAP is focused on academic rigor with student academic and social support. CAP features AP courses, i.e., Computer Science, Spanish, Art, Psychology, Government, Politics, and Environmental Science and many more. There are dual enrollment opportunities with Holy Family University.

CAP’s curriculum spans engineering, anatomy, culinary sciences, podcasting media, and more, with an emphasis on college and career readiness and supported by a proactive guidance department. CAP values a robust extracurricular involvement, offering a competitive ESports team, competitive athletics program, dance, drama, stage performances, poetry café, and art, which promotes well-rounded growth. CAP’s commitment to community and academic excellence has helped graduates secure substantial scholarships and strong post-secondary pathways.

For information or to apply, visit communityacademy.org

Inquiry Charter School 

charter school

Discover what sets Inquiry Charter School apart in West Philadelphia. At Inquiry, they believe that how children learn is as important as what they learn. Inquiry Charter School nurtures creativity, problem-solving skills, and a lifelong passion for learning. Students participate in small classes (average 20) and have small group instruction to meet them on their academic level.

The school’s thematic classroom model brings learning to life—students explore places like Fairmount Park and the Academy of Natural Sciences and enjoy unique experiences on campus including weekly school-wide celebrations, art, music, and maker spaces. Their hands-on approach emphasizes individual and exploratory learning, inspiring students to think critically and independently.

Inquiry Charter School welcomes students from all over Philadelphia to join its dynamic learning community. Apply online or contact the school today to arrange a tour and discover why Inquiry is the right choice for your child’s education. For information, visit belmontcharternetwork.org/ics

Belmont Charter School

charter school

Belmont Charter School, located in West Philadelphia, is dedicated to supporting the local neighborhood with a dynamic curriculum designed to prepare students for their future. From early learning at Belmont Academy Charter School (BACS) through high school, Belmont fosters a family-like environment with small class sizes averaging 20 students. This setting allows for personalized learning and strong relationships with teachers who support each student’s journey.

In partnership with the Community Education Alliance, Belmont goes beyond traditional academics to offer robust community support. Through its community school model, Belmont provides out-of-school programs, summer learning, social work services, and even an on-campus health center. Belmont Charter High School continues this dedication with individualized career planning, ensuring every student is ready for college, vocational training, or immediate career paths. Belmont nurtures well-rounded students equipped with the skills and resources to thrive in all aspects of life.

For information, visit Belmontcharternetwork.org


Sponsored content produced in partnership with advertisers.