Through outside partners, a maximum of 100 students can stay at Casarez until 6 p.m. for homework help and activities like soccer and martial arts. Second to building security is making sure students actually feel safe, Assistant Principal Nuez said. No kid should have to walk to school and see what we all see when we walk here, said former city controller Rebecca Rhynhart. We dont have the resources to do it, unfortunately.. READ MORE District to Expand Dual Language Program to William Cramp School So that is something I am encouraging you to do that as well; you want to have the naysayers as well as the yes people at your table. WHYY offers a voice to those not heard, a platform to share everyones stories, a foundation to empower early and lifelong learners and a trusted space for unbiased news. [1] She grew up in the Kensington neighborhood of North Philadelphia [4] attending Sheridan Elementary School and the Westmont section of Haddon Township, New Jersey, graduating from Haddon Township High School in 1989. For the schools leaders, it means thinking long-term about how the experiences children have in the classroom and on the playground can determine their trajectory and doing more to keep them on track. "Casarez stands as a role model for younger activists," wrote Ferentinos in her letter, "particularly those who are LGBTQ and/or Latinx. Public School Type. [75] The exhibit is permanently housed at the State Museum of Pennsylvania. 'Leveling' returns to the Philadelphia School District, but this time The free WHYY News Daily newsletter delivers the most important local stories to your inbox. WHYY is your source for fact-based, in-depth journalism and information. The arrangement means the counselors have less time to work with small groups and individual students, which is supposed to be their focus. [94], During negotiations and community organizing to preserve Ortiz's mural of Casarez before demolition of the 12th Street Gym, the mural was abruptly white-washed without notice to the artists or community on December 23, 2020, by Midwood Development and Investment. Last summer, just 31 of the districts 216 schools had programs. Read 2 reviews. I would see her in the hallway and say, Hey, how are you doing? and she'd just say, Coming along, getting better. And I know it wasn't always necessarily true. He said the more negative experiences a child has, like overcrowded classrooms, or the absence of specials or extracurriculars, the more likely they are to get turned off from school. This school is often described as providing a private school experience in a public school. Her work has been recognized by the Keystone Media Awards, Society of Professional Journalists, National Newspaper Association, and more. The CIL culture integrates collaboration, teamwork and a unified campus working together to achieve an amazing education and experience. If the school district is left behind, the entire city is left behind., Every candidate addressed conditions in Kensington, which Domb said in my opinion is the worst thing right now in the city of Philadelphia., Quiones Snchez, who grew up in the neighborhood, suggested city government was currently normalizing conditions that no other zip code would tolerate, and Kensington should not either.. #5 Best Public Elementary Schools in Orlando Area. Philly LGBTQ+ 'champion' inspires new school name and tradition in She lived in Kensington, went to Sheridan, and looked more like my skin tone. (Kimberly Paynter/WHYY). [2] Casarez came out as a lesbian at the age of 17. The program also delves into pop culture, sports, and humor. Families can now visit their website and register for before or . When I walk to school, I find trash and needles, and I see people using and selling drugs, said Jhovanny Quiones, a fifth grader at Gloria Casarez Elementary. Preserving the memory of Gloria Casarez is a step toward rectifying this situation. Laura Vega, who co-directs community violence and trauma support programs for Childrens Hospital of Philadelphia, said Casarezs morning meetings check all the right boxes. One student ran up and hugged his favorite teacher, while another had his former teacher walk him to his new class. Students, parents and staff at Philip H. Sheridan Elementary School and Woodrow Wilson Middle School this week announced the results of community votes on the name changes. Gloria Casarez 5th grade teacher Charlotte Furcron-Lane has conversations with students in her classroom about their feelings about the violence in their community. Sussex County considers legal options for areas outside of town limits, Partners for Justice is expanding to Philly, bringing bureaucracy doulas to the court system, Dangerous levels of toxic blue-green algae found in South Jersey ponds and lakes. In April 2013, Casarez engaged in Latino community organizing efforts to save La Milagrosa,[27] Philadelphia's first Spanish-speaking church. The PTA was a weak point for me. [34] Philadelphia was the highest scoring city in the nation (of the ten largest cities) and the highest scoring city without statewide legal protections for LGBT people. Teachers and staff I encountered are all caring and dedicated to education. What am I supposed to tell her? [61], Casarez was diagnosed with metastatic inflammatory breast cancer in March 2009. Donny, 10, a student at Gloria Casarez elementary school in Philadelphias Kensington neighborhood, said hes afraid of the possibility of gun violence happening to his family. Children come to Casarez scared, sleep-deprived, and in some cases grieving. My son was at Lake Highland before moving to Rainbow and they give them a run for their money! Student-teacher ratio 16:1. Cory Sharber is a general assignment reporter for WHYY News. Philip H. Sheridan Elementary School recently changed its name to Gloria Casarez Elementary School in commemoration of Philadelphia's first Director of the Office of LGBT Affairs. Candidates Jeff Brown and Jimmy DeLeon were not present. [81], A state historical marker commemorating Gloria Casarez was installed at Philadelphia's City Hall on October 8, 2021. Why? Jun 12 A diverse teacher workforce is important for every student but is most impactful for students of color. 18 (May 2-8, 2008): 1 ("GALAIE director named new LGBT liaison") | ArchivesSpace Public Interface", "Office of LGBT Affairs Serving the LGBTQ residents of Philadelphia through advocacy and inclusion", "Philadelphia Gay News 34, no. [74] The Philadelphia Commission on Human Relations (PCHR) awarded Casarez with the Sadie T.M. #20 Best Public Elementary Schools in Orlando Area. We should probably have a building plan that realistically, were building three to four schools, and closing schools so that we can cover the expense, Domb said. Students 587. The 2023 Best Public Elementary Schools ranking is based on rigorous analysis of key statistics and millions of reviews from students and parents using data from the U.S. Department of Education. (Kimberly Paynter/WHYY). 1 Niche users give it an average review of 5 stars. Who are we? The front desk staff and the resource officer were outstanding and always made me feel like my child was safe during his day at school. Following her death, FIGHT stated "Gloria wasnt just a policymaker and activist. [1] Casarez served as Philadelphia's first director of lesbian, gay, bisexual and transgender (LGBT) affairs. Another Kensington resident said they feel like the neighborhood is on the receiving end of bad policies, and asked how candidates planned to partner with residents in the decision-making process. They are the school's Change Makers, activist students who want better for the school and city. Last modified: February 1, 2023. I get teary-eyed because I know I can go for a walk with my son around the block. Kensington elementary school renamed in honor of Gloria Casarez When was the last time you saw or witnessed something that was violent in the community and how did it make you feel? he asked. We may as well be the oppressor.. Read 18 reviews. Ultimately, over 700 people voted for the four candidates, including students, family members, staff and community members, and 46% of the votes went to Casarez. It was really important that we find a name and start the process of changing the name so that it does fit with who we are today.. Overall Niche Grade. Sign up for our weekly newsletter. I think its an ongoing process for schools to get better at and I think they probably need a lot more resources and support, she said. They are not separate budgets, they are not separate ideas, Gym said. #Diversity #Success ALT 36 68 342 Donny, 10, a student at Gloria Casarez elementary school in Philadelphias Kensington neighborhood, said hes afraid of the possibility of gun violence happening to his family. The meetings were required as part of a district-wide initiative during the pandemic, but are now optional since there are other ways schools can build community, Gray said. Shy, but curious, she whispered to her mom a question Ferry said she asks frequently. WHYY provides trustworthy, fact-based, local news and information and world-class entertainment to everyone in our community. Published Mar 14, 2023 With nine people hoping to become mayor sitting in the elementary school gym in front of them, the Kensington students pulled no punches. And in 10 years, weve navigated a lot of hard stuff together so when we decided to get married, I was thinking it was this action, this thing we did, but it's more than that, she said. May 1 is the last day to register to vote in the mayoral primary. Because the last time I heard gunshots, I didnt want to hear them again., Across the room, another boy nods in recognition. Normally, the district shifts educators a month into the school year because of money, but this year, officials said they did it to cover teacher vacancies. With a name inspired by the First Amendment, 1A explores important issues such as policy, politics, technology, and what connects us across the fissures that divide the country. Watching her students solve problems and choose not to act on their anger makes her hopeful for the future, she said, but it doesnt change the present. Featured Review: Parent says My son's teacher and the 1st grade team were fantastic and genuinely cared about their students. [30] In 2001 Mayor John F. Street appointed a 15-member board to advise him on LGBT issues. Gloria Casarez Elementary School held its first mayoral forum. They got the go-ahead in November, 2021. Almost all of the students have something to say most about gun violence. School Name. The order directed the commonwealth of Pennsylvania to allow same-sex couples to marry and to legally recognize valid out-of-state marriages. 1 Niche users give it an average review of 3 stars. Its our problem, she said. If were not doing right by our children and families, then were not doing our jobs and were complicit. Academically, the material is easy to understand and when it is tough, the teachers help with. #3 Best Public Elementary Schools in Orlando Area. She was an activist, someone I can definitely look up to. Board Approval Date: 12/9/21. She maintains constant contact with local police, who let her know when the school needs to lock down, usually due to nearby gun violence. Parents Registration Info: Registration Packets:K English and Spanish Grades 1 - 5 English and Spanish Families can upload them, print them and have them filled in for when registration opens up again on Monday, August 8th (registration hours 9:00 - 11:00 Monday - Thursday). David Acosta, founder of GALAEI, served as the first Latino appointed to this commission. Less attention has been paid to the impact of frequent community gun violence on middle and elementary schools. No neighborhood should live like this, Snchez said. "[25], After living with metastatic breast cancer for over five years, Casarez died on October 19, 2014 at the Hospital of the University of Pennsylvania. 2 Philadelphia schools abandon racist legacies of namesakes - Audacy Taking pictures is classmate Yoleiny Soleno (left). What do you have a voice for if youre not using it, she said. Shell say, Is it safe to go to school? Ferry said. But she was a fighter. Gym also said if shes elected mayor, the city and school district will present their budgets together. Discover the schools, companies, and neighborhoods that are right for you. Ranking factors include state test scores, student-teacher ratio, student diversity, teacher quality, grade school ratings, and the overall quality of the school district. #17 Best Public Elementary Schools in Orlando Area. I teach them not to be afraid, she said. Donny Benjamin, a Gloria Casarez student, asks Philadelphia mayoral candidates about reducing recidivism at a forum at the elementary school on March 14, 2023. Principal Awilda Balbuena (right) meets with Assistant Principal Julio Nuez (left) at Gloria Casarez elementary school in Philadelphias Kensington neighborhood. Read more on how this ranking was calculated. Traditional Public Charter Magnet. That way, schools can get in front of the issue, anticipate student and family needs, provide support, and help children manage their emotions. Parent: My son's teacher and the 1st grade team were fantastic and genuinely cared about their students. Were excited and we cant wait for that [curriculum] to actually land in our hands so that we can start teaching it here during our social studies period.. school systems must humanely confront the complexities of intersectionality in discrimination . [83][84], John Anderies, Director for the John J. Wilcox Archives at the William Way LGBT Community Center in Philadelphia submitted the nomination for Gloria Casarez. Under a Parker administration, we will make sure that the people who live here are the voices we hear first.. The whole staff is amazing and the teachers are the best! The one thing I would change is to allow for a more rounded experience. Gloria Casarez Elementary School located at 800 E Ontario St, Philadelphia, PA 19134 - reviews, ratings, hours, phone number, directions, and more. [3][18], Casarez's work demonstrated a continuing interest in constituent led and community organizing efforts, starting with her early participation in social justice and political action movements. You should not have drug dealers openly selling drugs with police told not to arrest them or to intervene.. Why are there needles everywhere? Casarez served on the Philadelphia Convention and Visitors Bureau's PHL Diversity board.[25]. [28], Starting in the mid-1980s, Philadelphia mayors created various boards and commissions focused on sexual minority and LGBT communities. In an effort to distance itself from a racist historical figure, Philip H. Sheridan Elementary School in Kensington opened this school year with its new name: Gloria Casarez Elementary, per The Pennsylvania Capital-Star. Domb, the former City Council member and real estate magnate, said the district needs to tackle the issue of schools operating with hundreds of empty seats at 20% capacity or less but also open new, state-of-the-art schools. [2], Casarez attended West Chester University, where she was active in student government and political activism, earning a Bachelor of Arts in Criminal Justice and a Bachelor of Science in Political Science in 1993. (Kimberly Paynter/WHYY). It snowballed. "[14] Philadelphia Magazine included her in a "Who's Who of Philly's Gay Community. Philip H. Sheridan Elementary School was built in 1899-1900 named after the Union Civil War general. When you think about, What can I do? What is the most powerful thing you have? Nuez asked. Fun Resources - Gloria Casarez Elementary School The number of schools with summer programs varies each year based on need and capacity, according to district spokesperson Monique Braxton. [23] Casarez served as an inaugural member of the Fund's Jonathan Lax Scholarship Committee from 2001 until her death in 2014. Pa.s latest bid to regulate cyber charter schools would lower tuition payments, boost transparency. #12 Best Public Elementary Schools in Orlando Area. 28 were here. [73] The I Am Human Campaign of the BEBASHI organization awarded Casarez with the Governmental Liaison Award in December 2014. Devyn, a veteran Change Maker whose poise and grace under pressure made him the natural choice to ask the first question, sat for the entire two-hour forum and digested what every candidate said. At Kensington forum, elementary school students ask mayoral candidates Awilda Balbuena - Board Member - Books In Homes USA | LinkedIn Bloom, a block captain and minister who vowed as mayor to visit each of the citys 900 schools (there are 216), exhorted each of the Casarez students to be a godly person and asked them to repeat his campaign slogan back to him. In a similar move, Woodrow Wilson Middle School in Northeast Philadelphia changed its name to Castor Gardens, after the neighborhood where it is located. He also revealed a truth that left some of the grown-ups raising their eyebrows. [80] The residence provides LGBTQ-friendly affordable homes for young adults who are homeless, have experienced homelessness or are at risk of homelessness, including those aging out of foster care. 3 Niche users give it an average review of 3.7 stars. I do go all the way back to George Floyd in starting this process. [91][92], On December 13, 2016, Black trans poet, musician, and trans-rights activist Christian Lovehall aka "WORDZ The Poet Emcee" dedicated a song in memory of Casarez titled "See Ya Later." A Gloria Casarez Elementary School teacher hugs a former student while welcoming back students on Aug. 29, 2022. If you or someone you know has been affected by gun violence in Philadelphia, you can find grief support and resources online. Where should Delawares marijuana stores go? [66] Two weeks before her death, Casarez led the LGBT flag raising ceremony at City Hall for LGBT History Month. Want a digest of WHYYs programs, events & stories? The one thing I would change is to allow for a more rounded experience. Former City Councilmember Derek Green said Philadelphians should expect more from their local government. She has been on staff with PGN since January 2020 and previously worked as a freelancer. Philadelphians are at a significantly low voter turnout and civic engagement and participation because people have quite frankly, lost hope and faith in government, said former City Councilmember Cherelle Parker. What will you do as mayor to clean up the streets in Kensington and stop drug usage and drug trafficking?. [59] Speaking to a reporter from The Philadelphia Gay News (PGN), Casarez said "When we purchased our home together, we thought this is a new level, were committing to this 30-year mortgage together. Were going to clean this stuff up, said Parker, adding that her administration would go after the pharmaceutical industry and gun lobby. The majority of the students, by the way, voted and the majority of them selected her [Casarez]. Casarez received $95,000 from the district for extracurriculars this school year. They worked tirelessly to get their students taken care of in the midst of dealing with school district bureaucracy. Location. [29] In 1990, Oscar Garcia-Vera was appointed co-chair of the Commission under Mayor Goode and through Mayor Ed Rendell's tenure. Dozens of suggested names were reduced to four options: Acel Moore, who was a Pulitzer prize-winning journalist for the Philadelphia Inquirer; Joaquin Rivera, who was a musician and bilingual counselor assistant at Olney High School; late Supreme Court Justice Ruth Bader Ginsburg; and Casarez.

Why Is The Sky Blue For Kids, Notre Dame School Principal, Is Binary Search A Greedy Algorithm, Articles G