High Schools in Philadelphia City School District

The Philadelphia City School District is home to 55 high schools serving students in grades 9-12. These schools vary greatly in their academic performance, with some standout institutions like Central High School and Masterman Julia R Sec School ranking among the top schools in the state, while others like King Martin Luther High School and West Philadelphia High School struggle with low proficiency rates.

The data reveals stark disparities in academic performance, with the top-ranked schools boasting exceptional results on state assessments and graduation rates over 95%, while some lower-performing schools have proficiency rates as low as 0% and graduation rates below 50%. These disparities appear to be closely linked to the socioeconomic status of the student populations, with high rates of free and reduced-price lunch eligibility across the district. However, the success of schools like Central High and Masterman Julia R Sec School suggests that factors beyond just student demographics, such as school culture and leadership, play a crucial role in determining academic outcomes.

The data also highlights significant inequities in resource allocation, with per-student spending ranging from $8,168 at Swenson Arts & Technology High School to $66,835 at Philadelphia Learning Academy - North. Ensuring fair and adequate funding for all schools in the Philadelphia City School District could help to level the playing field and improve outcomes for all students.