Portrait of a Penn Charter Learner
Penn Charter’s educational philosophy—the Portrait of a Penn Charter Learner—connects the school’s mission with an academic program that guides students to become courageous learners, compassionate friends, constructive communicators and change cultivators.
It provides a shared language and vision across the many spheres of our school and honors the range of student identities and experiences.
The Portrait allows us to clearly and consistently articulate our mission of educating students to live lives that make a difference and serves as a guidepost for reflection.
The Portrait intentionally speaks to a student’s experience both within and beyond the classroom and blazes a path for new and exciting programming and initiatives.
Courageous Learner
A Penn Charter learner is curious and prepared to take risks in their learning. By building intellectual skills including questioning, critical thinking, problem-solving and academic tenacity, they take ownership of their education.
A Penn Charter learner develops healthy social, emotional and physical habits that allow them to navigate challenges and reach their goals. Their wonder, inquiry, and exploration of academics, arts, athletics and community engagement during their time at Penn Charter prepare them to thrive in a changing world.
Constructive Communicator
A Penn Charter learner communicates effectively and responsively to seek, share and gain knowledge, while actively listening to others.
A Penn Charter learner incorporates data and evidence to inform assertions and convey ideas. Constructive communication and silent reflection enable a Penn Charter learner to participate meaningfully in discourse, problem-solving and positive change.
Compassionate Friend
A Penn Charter learner embraces the importance of identity and the role it plays in academic and lived experience.
A Penn Charter learner recognizes that diversity is essential to a caring community shaped by Quaker values, and they act with kindness and empathy toward all.
A Penn Charter learner examines and develops their own identities as part of their growth and development, and uses reflective practice to better understand others and their experiences. A Penn Charter learner understands that no identity is more or less important than any other.
Change Cultivator
A Penn Charter learner discovers passions that inspire them to better the world while demonstrating personal, social and civic responsibility.
While working toward peace and justice with humility, a Penn Charter learner engages in their communities to shape and impact their world in positive and powerful ways.
A Penn Charter learner is an upstander, collaborator and problem-solver who sees the Light in others while sharing their Light with the world.