Philadelphia High School for Girls, high school in Pennsylvania
Philadelphia High School for Girls is a high school in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, dedicated to educating young women with a wide range of courses from arts and sciences to languages and social studies. The building features classic early 20th-century architecture with brick walls and large windows, offering an open campus with a yard where students gather during breaks.
Founded in 1818 as The Model School, it became the first state-supported public school for girls in the nation when reorganized in 1848 as the Girls' Normal School. The focus shifted from teacher training to broader academic preparation after separating in 1893, allowing it to offer liberal arts, classical studies, and business courses while resisting merger attempts that would have changed its independent identity.
The school lives by the motto "Vincit qui se vincit" (he conquers who conquers himself), emphasizing self-mastery and personal growth as central values. This principle shapes daily life through a Code of Honor and Courtesy that students develop and uphold, reflecting their commitment to integrity and mutual respect.
The school is easily reached by public transit at its location on Broad and Olney Streets and welcomes visitors to explore the campus during regular school hours. The grounds are pedestrian-friendly, allowing you to view the main building and campus yard while respecting the academic schedule.
The school made a remarkable choice in 1893 by resisting a planned merger with another institution, preserving its independent identity at a time when such resistance was uncommon. This decision to remain separate shaped the school's character and allowed it to develop its own distinctive academic programs and values.
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