The Best Charter Schools In Philadelphia

Philadelphia offers families a rich selection of charter schools, each with its unique educational philosophy, specialized programs, and supportive environments. Charter schools are public institutions that enjoy greater autonomy than traditional district schools, allowing them to innovate with curricula, staffing, and school culture. This flexibility has empowered many Philadelphia charters to excel in academic performance, STEM and language instruction, arts integration, and college preparation, serving diverse communities throughout the city. Parents are encouraged to actively consider school approach, location, and mission when seeking the best fit for their children.

In recent years, top-rated charter schools in Philadelphia have demonstrated strong graduation rates, academic achievement, and high levels of parental satisfaction. Many of the leaders in this sector have specialized programs—ranging from environmental stewardship to global citizenship and performing arts—that set them apart from traditional public schools. These schools combine rigorous teaching with caring environments, and many offer robust community engagement and enrichment opportunities. The following ten schools represent the very best of Philadelphia’s charter system, providing families with outstanding options for K-12 education.

1. Franklin Towne Charter High School

Address: 5301 Tacony Street, Philadelphia, PA 19137
Phone: (215) 289-5000
Website: www.franklintowne.org
Why: High graduation rates, exceptional college prep, and strong academic culture.

2. Folk Arts-Cultural Treasures Charter School (FACTS)

Address: 1023 Callowhill Street, Philadelphia, PA 19123
Phone: (215) 569-2600
Website: www.factschool.org
Why: Arts-integrated curriculum, multicultural learning, and community focus.

3. Green Woods Charter School

Address: 468 Domino Lane, Philadelphia, PA 19128
Phone: (215) 482-6337
Website: www.greenwoodscharter.org
Why: Renowned for its environmental education and STEM programs.

4. MaST Community Charter School

Address: 1800 East Byberry Road, Philadelphia, PA 19116
Phone: (267) 348-1100
Website: www.mastccs.org
Why: Leader in STREAM (STEM plus arts and robotics), innovative culture.

5. Philadelphia Academy Charter School

Address: K-8: 11000 Roosevelt Blvd, Philadelphia, PA 19116; HS: 1700 Tomlinson Rd, Philadelphia, PA 19116
Phone: K-8: (215) 676-8320; HS: (215) 673-3990
Website: www.philadelphiaacademy.org
Why: Balanced K-12 program, robust academics, safe and inclusive environment.

6. KIPP Philadelphia Charter Schools (Notable Campuses: KIPP Philadelphia Prep, KIPP West)

KIPP Philadelphia Prep: 2600 West Clearfield Street, Philadelphia, PA 19132 – (267) 417-3075
KIPP West: 5900 Baltimore Avenue, Philadelphia, PA 19143 – (215) 294-2973
Network Info: kippphiladelphia.org
Why: Rigorous academic expectations, personalized learning, character development.

7. Mastery Charter Schools (Gratz, Pickett, others)

Pickett Campus: 5700 Wayne Ave, Philadelphia, PA 19144
Phone: (215) 866-9000
Website: masterycharter.org
Why: Renowned network closing achievement gaps, college readiness focus.

8. Pan American Academy Charter School

Address: 2830 North American Street, Philadelphia, PA 19133
Phone: (215) 425-1212
Website: panamcs.org
Why: Dual-language instruction and International Baccalaureate curriculum.

9. Philadelphia Performing Arts Charter School (String Theory Schools)

Vine Street Campus (6-12): 1600 Vine Street, Philadelphia, PA 19102
Phone: (267) 428-2224
Website: ppa.stringtheoryschools.org
Why: World-class performing arts integrated with a rigorous academic program.

10. Global Leadership Academy Charter School

Address: 4601 West Girard Avenue, Philadelphia, PA 19131
Phone: (267) 295-5700
Website: www.glacharter.org
Why: Focuses on leadership, global citizenship, holistic growth.

Selecting a high-quality charter school can shape a student’s academic journey and future success. Families should carefully review each school’s offerings, admissions process, and overall fit for their child’s needs and interests. Philadelphia’s best charter schools continue to innovate and excel, providing educational pathways that support student achievement, personal development, and lifelong learning in vibrant urban communities. Whether seeking academic rigor, specialty programs, or nurturing environments, these top charter schools set the bar for excellence in Philadelphia.