Legislation Details

File #: 260445    Version: 0 Name:
Type: Resolution Status: ADOPTED
File created: 4/30/2026 In control: CITY COUNCIL
On agenda: Final action: 4/30/2026
Title: Recognizing and celebrating the 100th Anniversary of Russell H. Conwell Middle Magnet School.
Sponsors: Councilmember Lozada, Councilmember Phillips, Councilmember Gilmore Richardson, Councilmember Gauthier, Councilmember Thomas, Councilmember Jones, Councilmember Landau, Councilmember Young, Councilmember Harrity, Councilmember O'Rourke, Councilmember Driscoll, Councilmember Squilla, Councilmember Bass, Councilmember Ahmad
Attachments: 1. Signature26044500
Title
Recognizing and celebrating the 100th Anniversary of Russell H. Conwell Middle Magnet School.

Body
WHEREAS, Located in the Kensington neighborhood of Philadelphia, Russell H. Conwell Middle Magnet School was built between 1925 and 1926 and named in honor of Russell Conwell, founder of Temple University, and continues to reflect his legacy by serving generations of students and providing opportunities for the highest levels of intellectual and personal development; and

WHEREAS, As the first magnet middle school in Philadelphia, Russell H. Conwell Middle Magnet School expanded access to rigorous and specialized academic programming, and remains one of only a few criteria-based programs for students in grades 5 through 8; and

WHEREAS, The school building, designed by Irwin T. Catharine and constructed between 1925 and 1926 in the Late Gothic Revival style, reflects the historic character of the Kensington community and was added to the National Register of Historic Places in 1988 in recognition of its architectural and historic significance; and

WHEREAS, Today, the school continues to invest in its students and community through modern upgrades including new HVAC and lighting, a digital media lab, science and engineering labs, a soccer field, a mini track, and a renovated schoolyard that support both academic and physical development; and

WHEREAS, Russell H. Conwell Middle Magnet School offers a wide range of academic and enrichment programs, including Media and Journalism, Spanish, Algebra 1, Temple Future Scholars, Girls Inc., Women in Natural Sciences, National Junior Honor Society, instrumental music, athletics, and partnerships that prepare students for success in high school, college, and beyond; and

WHEREAS, These opportunities foster leadership, creativity, and civic engagement while equipping students with the skills needed to thrive in a rapidly changing world; and

WHEREAS, Situated in a community deeply impacted by the ongoing opioid crisis,...

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