Parkway Center City High School, high school in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania
Parkway Center City High School is a school building in Philadelphia constructed between 1925 and 1927 in late Gothic Revival style and located on North 13th Street. The brick structure features pointed arches and detailed stonework that reflect the architectural style of the 1920s.
Originally founded as Helen Fleischer Vocational School, it served as a junior high and middle school for many years until closing in that role in 2003. In 2017 it reopened as Parkway Center City Middle College, the first such program in Pennsylvania, allowing students to earn college credits during high school.
The school carries the name Parkway Center City High School today, but its past as Helen Fleischer Vocational School reflects its original purpose in teaching practical skills to young people. The building shows how schools in the early 20th century were designed to inspire students through their impressive architecture and craftsmanship.
The school sits in a busy part of Philadelphia with good access to public transportation and nearby local facilities. Visitors should know this is an active school building and access may be limited, so it's wise to check ahead for visiting information.
The building was home to Pennsylvania's first Middle College program, which allowed students to earn up to 61 college credits while still in high school. This innovative program combines high school courses with classes at Community College of Philadelphia, helping students prepare early for higher education.
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