Changing the Narrative at Strawberry Mansion High School

On an ABC news special In 2013, Diane Sawyer labeled Strawberry Mansion High School as "One of the Most Dangerous Schools in America ," a label that still bears substantial weight. More than a decade later, social media posts continue to perpetuate this misconception.

Strawberry Mansion is a small neighborhood in North Philadelphia that is historically impoverished with a median household income of $33,000 compared to the national median income of $78,500 annually. The high school is designated as a "neighborhood" school by the district, which means it does not have specific admission criteria and is open to any student who lives in the catchment area. Most of the students live around the building (78%) and all students qualify as economically disadvantaged according to federal criteria. About 93% of students identify as Black, 4% identify as Latinx, 2% identify as two or more races, and 1% identify as white.

This may seem daunting, however those of us who enter the building every day know a different side to that story. We know a story of grit, determination, and inspiration.

Strawberry Mansion can be a tough neighborhood. There are basic necessities that sometimes are not being met. There are family dynamics and duties that sometimes take precedence over attending school and the academic progress of students. Yet in spite of these challenges, our students thrive. This shows the strength and resilience of our students. The perseverance comes when they excel in classes after fighting to get to school.

To parallel the determination and mimic the mental toughness of our students, we will be completing an olympic distance triathlon on June 8th, which entails a one mile swim on the Jersey Shore, followed by a twenty mile bike ride, completed by a five mile run.

Matthew Byrne is a Biology teacher at Strawberry Mansion entering his seventh year there and his eighth year in the Philadelphia School District. He is also a co-coach for the Cross Country track team and Head Coach of the Basketball team.

Stewart Wing is a Learning Support teacher in science entering his third year at Strawberry Mansion and the Philadelphia School District, eighth year teaching students designated with special needs.

We ask that you support our efforts and students by helping us reach our goal of $5,000. Your donations will be used to improve the gym facilities and better the physical wellness of students from a therapeutic lens.