Bring Green Woods Charter School to Overbrook

Dear Overbrook, Overbrook Farms, Wynnefield, Overbrook Park, Greenhill Farms, and Philadelphia neighbors;

As you may have heard recent legislation has passed that opens the door for Charter School Applications to the SRC (School Reform Commission). A group of neighbors, parents, and interested community members have been working for several years for such an opportunity.

We are submitting an application to locate a new Charter School in the area based on Green Woods Charter School's environmental education model. The school, Green Woods Charter School at Overbrook, will aim to service children in the Overbrook, Wynnefield, Overbrook Park, and Greenhill Farms neighborhood as well as nearby neighborhoods.

Currently many households with school age children are not utilizing the Philadelphia School District schools which serve this community. Every parent desires the very best education for their child and unfortunately many in this community feel that the local schools do not provide this for their children. Most in this community seek slots in the reputable charter schools outside of the community, find a private school within their means, or decide to home school their children.

Some residents have chosen to move out of the City of Philadelphia when one of these alternatives is unacceptable or not possible. When one considers the performance of the local public schools, the few charter schools in the area, and the lack of any local school providing a specialized alternative, it's easy to see why so many in this community have not utilized the area public schools.

We believe that a successful public school, charter or district-run, is an integral part of a vibrant, thriving community. The Green Woods Charter School at Overbrook will depend on a supportive, active, and local community of parents. In doing this, the School will both provide a much needed educational option to students and help knit our communities together around the school.

The mission of Green Woods Charter School at Overbrook will be to provide students with the opportunity to be active, knowledgeable and conscientious young investigators by fostering a keen understanding of the interrelatedness and interdependence of our local and global existence. Students of Green Woods Charter School at Overbrook will understand that learning is an ongoing process requiring a strong foundation. They will use their special talents and knowledge to constantly improve themselves, their learning, their school, and the environment.

Sign the petition to show your support for having better school options and for bettering our communities: Sign the petition to show your support for the creation of the Green Woods Charter School at Overbrook.