Empowering learners to impact their world. That’s the driving force behind Building 21. This innovative Philadelphia high school is more than just a place of learning. It’s a transformative educational experience.
Building 21 is not your typical high school. It operates as part of a network of public schools. They are located in both Philadelphia and Allentown, Pennsylvania. Building 21 serves students in grades 9 through 12.
Forget traditional classrooms. At Building 21, students advance by mastering skills and knowledge. It’s called competency-based progression. This approach ensures that learning is personalized. Each student’s unique needs, interests, and goals are considered. Students gain agency and ownership over their education.
Real-world learning is a cornerstone of Building 21. Students engage in internships. They tackle project-based work. Community engagement is highly encouraged. Interdisciplinary projects connect academic concepts to real-life applications. Students are prepared for the modern workforce’s challenges.
Equity and access are central to Building 21’s mission. The school ensures that all students have the tools and support to succeed. No matter their background, every student matters. Advisory groups and mentorship programs provide personalized guidance. Students navigate their academic and personal development with support.
Building 21’s mission is to empower learners. They want them to discover their passion. They want them to connect with their purpose. They strive to build agency so students affect their world.
The school fosters a healthy community. This is an important part of ensuring a safe learning environment. Building 21 understands that creating this community requires planning and practice. Students and staff devote 3.5 hours a week to their advisory model. Advisories provide safe spaces. Students reflect on personal mastery. They build teams. They consider short and long-term graduation goals.
Relationships are at the core of Building 21’s work. The school is dedicated to using restorative practices. This applies to students, teachers, and families.
Building 21 also partners with other schools. They implement their innovative educational model nationwide. The aim is to create scalable solutions for transforming education.
Experiential learning is key. Building 21 students explore their passions. They pursue their interests through partnerships. They work with members of the local and citywide communities. Industry partners include Eat.Right.Now, Immersive XR, and Jevs Human Services. Higher education partners include Drexel University and Temple University.
Building 21 empowers students to design their own pathways to graduation. They have choices. They have a voice. They decide how, what, and where they learn. Building 21 is a place where students connect with their passions. They discover their purpose. They build agency to impact their world.