Mastery Model

Mastery’s model is designed to ensure all students learn the academic skills they need for higher education and the personal and interpersonal skills they need for the global economy. Mastery’s first school, the Lenfest Campus in Center City, was founded in September 2001 by a coalition of business, academic, and civic leaders. In 2005 and 2006 and 2007 the School District of Philadelphia invited Mastery to convert three low performing District schools, the Thomas Middle in South Philadelphia, Shoemaker Middle in West Philadelphia, and Pickett Middle in Germantown into Mastery charter schools serving grades 7-12. Today, Mastery’s four schools enroll nearly 1,500 students. Mastery plans to open additional schools in the coming years.

Mastery’s high school is comprised of six grade levels in each subject, rather than the traditional four. Students are assessed upon enrollment and placed at an appropriate level. To advance, students must demonstrate mastery of each course with a grade of 76% or higher. Consequently, students can take three to six years to graduate our high school. This structure enables us to serve students at their individual incoming skill levels but also insist that all students reach the highest standards

We foster a warm, personalized school culture but also demand hard work and perseverance. We sweat the small stuff and support students to take responsibility for themselves and their futures. Our motto is “Excellence. No Excuses.”

Hallmarks of Mastery’s Model

• Individualized Attention — Small classes (avg. 24 students) and schools (less than 600 students) means that students receive personalized attention
• Rigorous Instruction— We teach students to take responsibility for their school and demand respect, courteousness, and order.
• Real-World Preparation — All 11th graders complete an 18-week internship. All 12th graders complete a college-level course.
• Technology Infusion — We maintain a 3:1 student-to-computer ratio.
• Teacher Development — Coaching and weekly planning time ensure high-quality instruction. Bonuses and promotions are based on student outcomes – not seniority.
• Exceptional Facilities — Our award winning facilities are bright and open with a modern style.