If you’re considering Franklin Towne Charter High School for your child’s education, you’re making a wise choice. This well-regarded institution has earned praise for its innovative educational approach, rigorous academics, and strong commitment to student success. However, before you finalize your decision, it’s essential to fully understand what Franklin Towne Charter High School has to offer. In this comprehensive guide, we’ll provide key insights into the school’s offerings, admission requirements, extracurricular activities, and more to help you make an informed choice for your family.
Table of Contents
- About Franklin Towne
- Franklin Towne Charter High School Enrollment
- FAQs
- Franklin Towne Charter High School Ranking
- Academic Programs & Elective Courses
- Tuition and Fees
- Extracurricular Activities
- Sports Programs
- Faculty & Support Services
- Application Process & Deadlines
- Franklin Towne Charter High School Location & Contact Info
About Franklin Towne
Located in Philadelphia, Franklin Towne Charter High School is a college-preparatory institution that offers a robust and well-rounded education for students in grades 9-12. Established in 1999, the school’s mission is to provide an academically challenging and supportive environment where students can thrive. The school has earned a reputation for its commitment to excellence, and it is one of the top choices for families looking for a high-quality, public charter education in the city.
Named after Benjamin Franklin and Isaac Towne, two historical figures closely tied to Philadelphia’s heritage, the school draws inspiration from their values of community, knowledge, and public service. The student body is diverse, representing a wide range of backgrounds, and the school strives to maintain an inclusive and supportive environment where every student can reach their full potential.
Franklin Towne Charter High School is a tuition-free institution, funded by local, state, and federal resources, as well as private donations. This makes it an excellent option for families seeking quality education without the financial burden of private tuition.
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Franklin Towne Charter High School Enrollment
General Lottery Application Process
The application process for Franklin Towne Charter High School is straightforward but operates on a lottery system due to high demand. Residents of Philadelphia are eligible to apply, with priority given to siblings of current students and children of staff members. While the school primarily accepts new students for 9th grade, occasional openings may be available in other grade levels.
Applications for 9th grade must be submitted by the second Friday in December of each school year. Applications for other grades (10th-12th) are accepted from July 1 until the second Friday of December. Families who wish to apply must ensure all required documents are submitted by the specified deadlines to be considered for the lottery.
For detailed instructions on how to apply, visit the Franklin Towne Charter High School application page.
Important Dates
- 9th Grade Application Deadline: 2nd Friday of December
- Lottery Date: The public lottery for 9th grade applicants is held on the Friday after Martin Luther King Jr. Day (January).
- Enrollment Paperwork Deadline: Families must submit all required documents by the third Friday in February.
For more information on the enrollment process, including necessary documentation, click here.
Franklin Towne Charter High School Ranking
Franklin Towne Charter High School has consistently ranked among the top high schools in Pennsylvania due to its high academic standards, successful college preparation programs, and a wide array of extracurricular activities. According to recent reports, the school holds the 73rd position among public high schools in Pennsylvania, reflecting its ongoing dedication to educational excellence.
In addition to its strong academic performance, Franklin Towne Charter High School has received multiple awards, such as:
- 2019 Varsity Brand’s Most Spirited High School
- 2014 National Blue Ribbon School
- 2017-2018 Exceptional Charter School Award by the National Association of Special Education Teachers
- 2011 National Title I School of Excellence
These accolades speak to the school’s commitment to fostering not only academic excellence but also a vibrant school culture and robust athletic programs.
Academic Programs & Elective Courses
Franklin Towne Charter High School offers a diverse and challenging curriculum designed to meet the needs of all students. The school provides a strong foundation in core subjects such as English, mathematics, science, and social studies, with the added benefit of Advanced Placement (AP) courses, honors programs, and vocational training. Students can also explore a wide range of elective courses in subjects like:
- Foreign Languages (Spanish, French, etc.)
- Fine Arts (Art, Music, Theatre)
- Computer Science and Technology
- Business and Career Education
- Health and Physical Education
These courses are designed not only to prepare students for college but also to provide them with the practical skills needed for success in the workforce.
Tuition and Fees
As a charter school, Franklin Towne Charter High School is tuition-free for all students who reside within Philadelphia city limits. This means that there are no tuition costs for eligible residents. However, if you’re from outside the city, tuition fees apply, with an average cost of $5,837 per year.
The lack of tuition fees for Philadelphia residents ensures that every student, regardless of background, has the opportunity to receive a high-quality education. Financial aid options are available for out-of-state students.
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Franklin Towne Charter High School Extracurricular Activities
Franklin Towne Charter High School offers a wide variety of extracurricular opportunities designed to enrich students’ academic and personal growth. Students can participate in:
- Clubs and Organizations (National Honor Society, Student Government, etc.)
- Community Service Initiatives
- Leadership Development Programs
The school emphasizes personal growth through involvement in extracurriculars, fostering skills such as teamwork, leadership, and community engagement.
Franklin Towne Charter High School Sports Programs
Sports are a vital part of the Franklin Towne experience. With a wide range of athletic programs, students can participate in:
- Basketball
- Soccer
- Volleyball
- Baseball
- Track and Field
The school’s basketball team, in particular, is well-regarded for its competitiveness and teamwork. Coaches at Franklin Towne focus on not only athletic performance but also character development, helping students build essential life skills like perseverance and leadership.
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Faculty & Support Services
Franklin Towne Charter High School boasts a student-teacher ratio of 18:1, ensuring that each student receives individualized attention and support. Teachers are highly qualified, with many holding advanced degrees in their fields.
The school offers comprehensive support services, including:
- Guidance Counseling (Academic and Career Planning)
- Special Education Services
- English Language Learner (ELL) Support
These services ensure that every student, regardless of their needs, has the support necessary to succeed.
Application Process & Deadlines
The application for Franklin Towne Charter High School is handled via a lottery system. The school provides detailed guidelines on the application process, including deadlines and required documents, on its official website. To access the application form, visit the Franklin Towne Charter Enrollment Page.
Important Documents for Enrollment:
- Proof of Age
- Proof of Residency
- Immunization Records
- Final Report Card
Franklin Towne Charter High School Location & Contact Info
Franklin Towne Charter High School is located at:
5301 Tacony Street, Building 108
Philadelphia, PA 19137
Phone: (215) 289-5000
FAQs
What is the largest charter school?
Granada Hills Charter School, located in Los Angeles, is recognized as the largest charter school in the United States. With a vast enrollment and a commitment to academic excellence, Granada Hills Charter continues to be a leading example in the charter school sector.
Is a charter school a private school?
While charter schools are often compared to private schools, they differ significantly in terms of funding and operation. Charter schools are publicly funded, tuition-free, and open to all students within a specific district or area. Unlike private schools, charter schools are not associated with religious education or independent institutions. The term “private” in the context of charter schools refers to the independent organizations that manage them, with increased autonomy compared to traditional public schools.
How much is a charter school?
Charter schools are tuition-free, publicly funded institutions. These schools operate with greater flexibility and autonomy compared to traditional public schools, allowing for innovative teaching methods and specialized curricula. In return for this autonomy, charter school leaders are held to higher standards of accountability, with performance and student achievement closely monitored by their authorizing entities.
Which city has the most charter schools?
The cities with the highest number of charter schools include Los Angeles and New York City. Both the Los Angeles Unified School District (LAUSD) and New York City Public Schools have extensive charter school networks, offering students a variety of educational options in addition to traditional public schooling. These cities’ charter school systems provide opportunities for educational innovation, catering to diverse student needs and interests.
Conclusion
Franklin Towne Charter is a distinguished educational institution that offers a rigorous academic program alongside a supportive and inclusive environment. This school stands out for its strong commitment to fostering academic excellence, personal growth, and preparing students for future success in higher education and the workforce.
With a diverse range of academic offerings, including Advanced Placement (AP) courses, honors programs, and career-focused electives, Franklin Towne Charter High School provides a well-rounded education that challenges students to excel. Additionally, the school’s comprehensive extracurricular programs, ranging from athletics to community service, allow students to grow outside the classroom and develop valuable life skills.
Franklin Towne Charter High School’s diverse student body, dedicated faculty, and state-of-the-art facilities create an ideal setting for intellectual, social, and emotional development. Whether you are considering Franklin Towne Charter High School for your child or looking for more information about the school’s programs, we hope this guide has provided you with valuable insights into what makes this school a top choice in the Philadelphia area.
For more details, to start the application process, or to explore specific aspects of Franklin Towne Charter High School’s offerings, be sure to visit their official website.
By choosing Franklin Towne Charter, you are giving your child an opportunity to thrive in a supportive and academically rigorous environment that prepares them for future success, both in college and in life.
