University-Assisted Schools

Penn GSE Improving Public Education

Penn is making a dramatic difference in public education. Strengthened by the development of an rigorous liberal arts curriculum, regular engagement by Penn faculty, and stellar academic performances by the students, the Sadie Tanner Mossell Alexander University of Pennsylvania Partnership School (commonly called the Penn Alexander School or PAS) has emerged as a model of a high-achieving, urban public school since opening in 2001. This past year's successes, which included the admission of 97 percent of the graduating 8th grade class to selective high schools, emboldened Penn to move forward with the School District on plans to create a college-preparatory international studies high school in West Philadelphia.

Penn has also taken a leadership role in partnering with the School Reform Commission to revive struggling low performing schools. By providing professional development and managerial assistance, Penn's Graduate School of Education has helped to improve student achievement at the Lea Elementary School and Wilson Elementary School.