Frameworks Kickoff:
A Success by Every Measure

Almost 600 people packed the National Constitution Center Nov. 12 to kick off Frameworks for the Future, Penn Charter's ambitious capital campaign.

The Friday night gala was the opening of the public phase of a campaign that seeks to raise $40 million. As of the morning of the kickoff, the quiet phase of the campaign had already raised a spectacular $29 million of the goal.

The event was a celebration of the school's history and a call to protect and enhance its traditions for future generations.

Will Carr OPC '69, clerk of Overseers, welcomed the guests back to the neighborhood where Penn Charter began more than 300 years ago. Carr articulated the three essential frameworks of the campaign: faculty salaries and professional development; financial aid for need-based student scholarships; and facilities that will provide the best places to teach and learn.

The Frameworks campaign has already transformed the campus and curriculum with accomplishments such as the Richard B. Fisher Middle School and a fully integrated K-12 curriculum. Frameworks also envisions a new performing arts center, a separate pre-kindergarten facility, new Upper School science labs, and the addition of a squash center.

The campaign is an unprecedented partnership between Penn Charter and its friends, and the gala speakers called upon each member of the community to support the effort. Duncan McFarland OPC'61 spoke on behalf of alumni. Barbara Lyons, mother of two Penn Charter students, imagined the world as it might be if every child had the opportunity to attend a school such as ours; she called on parents to join in the effort to maintain the school for coming generations.

Earl J. Ball, head of school, recalled William Penn's commitment to education and to service. Ball said he reflected with "pride and humility" on his contribution in keeping Penn's legacy alive.

Invoking an image of a long line of teachers, students and parents who have been part of Penn Charter history -- a line stretching back 300 years -- Ball encouraged everyone who cares deeply about Penn Charter to participate in Frameworks for the Future.