The Science Leadership Academy

1
The Science Leadership Academy

• Learn Create Lead

The School District of Philadelphia School Reform
Commission James E. Nevels, Chair Martin G.
Bednarek Sandra Dungee Glenn James Gallagher, Ph.
D. Daniel Whelan   Paul G. Vallas, Chief
Executive Officer Gregory Thornton, Ed. D., Chief
Academic Officer Albert Bichner, Interim Deputy
Chief Academic Officer
2
Why SLA?

• Innovative, inquiry-based curriculum
• Small learning community
• Nationally Recruited Faculty
• Partnership with the Franklin Institute
• Internships
• Dual enrollment programs
• Longer classes to enable depth of study

3
Three Essential Questions

• How do we learn?
• What can we create?
• What does it mean to lead?

4
Five Core Values

• Inquiry
• Research
• Collaboration
• Presentation
• Reflection

5
The Capstone Projects

• Graduation Exhibitions
• Student-developed projects
• Skills-based standards
• Authentic assessment

6
The School Site
7
Summer Institute

• Two week summer program
• Bridge the gap between elementary and high school
• Opportunity to meet teachers and classmates in a
  less formal setting
• Use of Franklin Institute and Centennial Lake in
  Fairmount Park

8
Science

• Hands-on, laboratory based coursework
• Science Methodology
• Begin with Biology, Chemistry, Physics
• AP courses in later years
• Advanced courses on and off campus
• Outdoor science facilities

9
Technology

• Wireless connectivity
• Full digital production lab
• Three ways to look at tech
• Communication with parents
• Technology elective course offerings
• Integration into traditional classes

10
Leadership / Entrepreneurship

• Internships
• Student involvement on school committees
• Real world application of class study
• Student involvement in admissions process
• Presentation as fundamental to learning

11
The Advisory System

• Small Advisory size 15-20 Students
• Four year sequence
• School Family link
• Parent-Advisor-Student conferences

12
After-School Life

• Commitment to extra-curricular activities
• Athletics
• Arts
• Student Leadership
• And more

13
College Process

• Individualized attention
• College counselor
• Advisory system
• College sit-ins starting next year
• Aggressive marketing to universities
• Partnerships with local schools

14
Admissions

• Redefining Magnet school
• Grades
• Counselor recommendations
• Terra-Novas
• 100 120 special kids

15
For More Information

• On the web http//sla.fi.edu
• Contact Chris Lehmann, Principal
• Phone [phone]
• Email clehmann_at_fi.edu