Thomas G. Morton School
General Information
Reviews
Thomas G. Morton School, Pennsylvania, K12 is a neighborhood public elementary school that serves students from kindergarten through fifth grade within the Philadelphia City School District. Community and parent reviews are mixed, reflecting both the strengths and challenges associated with urban public education. Some families and community members emphasize the passionate commitment of teachers and staff to their students’ well‑being, noting efforts to create meaningful relationships and support diverse learners. The school’s mission emphasizes seeing every child as capable, loved, and belonging, with educators working to build confidence and academic growth in a supportive environment where multiple languages and cultural identities are represented. At the same time, external academic performance data indicate the school struggles to meet state averages on standardized assessments, particularly in reading and mathematics, which reflects broader systemic challenges and resource constraints often faced by high‑need urban schools. Despite these academic challenges, stakeholders often highlight the school’s dedication to community engagement, family involvement, and fostering resilience among students. Educators stress their commitment to continuous improvement and personalized learning approaches that affirm each child’s potential. These combined perspectives present Thomas G. Morton School as a community‑centered elementary institution striving to balance aspirational goals with real‑world educational conditions. morton.philasd.org+1
Contact Information
- Phone Number: 215‑400‑8160 apps.philasd.org
- Main Address: 2501 South 63rd Street, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania 19142, United States Public School Review
- General Email Address: info@philasd.org (School District of Philadelphia contact system) apps.philasd.org
- Administrative Office: 2501 South 63rd Street, Philadelphia, PA 19142 Public School Review
- Attendance Office: 2501 South 63rd Street, Philadelphia, PA 19142 Public School Review
School Facts
| Attribute | Details |
|---|---|
| Founding Year | Original school building erected in 1902 (historical roots) morton.philasd.org |
| School Type | Public Elementary School Public School Review |
| School District | Philadelphia City School District Public School Review |
| Mission | Affirm every child matters, belongs, and can achieve academic and personal success morton.philasd.org |
| Grade Levels Served | Kindergarten through Grade 5 Public School Review |
| Campus Setting | Urban Neighborhood School Public School Review |
Rankings
| Ranking Category | Position |
|---|---|
| Country Ranking | Not ranked among national schools (typical for district elementary schools) |
| State Ranking | Bottom 50% of schools in Pennsylvania based on standardized proficiency data Public School Review |
| Global Ranking | Not ranked |
The Thomas G. Morton School, Pennsylvania, K12 Academics
Faculties / Departments
- Early Childhood Education (Kindergarten) Public School Review
- Elementary Instruction (Grades 1–5) Public School Review
- English / Language Arts Public School Review
- Mathematics Public School Review
- Science Integration Public School Review
- Social Studies Public School Review
- Expressive and Fine Arts morton.philasd.org
- Physical Education morton.philasd.org
- Student Support Services (including special education and literacy intervention) morton.philasd.org
The Thomas G. Morton School, Pennsylvania, K12 Courses Offered and Programs / Majors
- Foundational Literacy and Language Arts Instruction morton.philasd.org
- Elementary Mathematics Curriculum morton.philasd.org
- Integrated Science Concepts morton.philasd.org
- Social Studies and Community Learning morton.philasd.org
- Expressive Arts and Visual Creativity morton.philasd.org
- Physical Education and Health morton.philasd.org
- Reading Intervention and Literacy Support morton.philasd.org
- English Language Learner Services morton.philasd.org
Online Learning
The Thomas G. Morton School primarily emphasizes in‑person instruction and does not operate a comprehensive online learning curriculum. Digital tools are occasionally integrated into classroom instruction for supplemental activities, homework platforms, and communication with families, but online learning is not the central mode of education at the elementary level. Teachers may use online resources to support differentiated instruction and reinforce skills, yet the school’s instructional focus remains rooted in face‑to‑face interactions, direct teaching, and hands‑on learning experiences that support elementary development within the community.
Degrees and Certifications
As a public elementary school, The Thomas G. Morton School, Pennsylvania, K12 does not award postsecondary degrees or professional certifications. Students are promoted from grade to grade based on mastery of age‑appropriate learning standards and readiness for subsequent instruction. Upon successful completion of grade 5, students transition to middle school within the district, equipped with foundational skills in literacy, numeracy, and social development that support continued academic progression.
Summer School
The Thomas G. Morton School participates in the Philadelphia City School District’s summer learning initiatives, which offer opportunities for students to reinforce academic skills, engage in enrichment projects, and maintain continuity of learning during the summer break. These programs focus on literacy, mathematics reinforcement, and social‑emotional development to support students as they prepare for the next school year.
Average Test Scores
| Assessment | Performance Level |
|---|---|
| Mathematics Proficiency | 6–9%, below state average Public School Review |
| Reading / English Language Arts | 15–19%, below state average Public School Review |
| Science Proficiency | 25–29% (bottom 50%) Public School Review |
Retention and Graduation Rates
As an elementary school, traditional graduation rates do not apply; however, retention reflects the school’s ability to keep students enrolled through grade 5. Data indicates stable enrollment trends with gradual declines in total population, a dynamic often seen in urban district schools due to demographic shifts and mobility. Promotion to middle school is the primary progression metric, with teachers and administrators monitoring academic growth, social readiness, and developmental milestones to support transitions beyond elementary school.
The Thomas G. Morton School, Pennsylvania, K12 Admissions
GPA Range and SAT / ACT Range
For elementary school admission, standardized metrics such as GPA ranges or SAT/ACT scores are not used. Enrollment is based on residency within the school’s attendance boundary in the Philadelphia City School District, and students are placed in grade‑appropriate classes. Academic performance data may inform instructional grouping but is not an admission criterion.
Acceptance Rate
| Category | Detail |
|---|---|
| Acceptance Rate | Open enrollment for district residents, contingent on attendance zone eligibility |
Application Requirements
Admission to The Thomas G. Morton School requires proof of residency within the designated catchment area of the Philadelphia City School District, a completed enrollment form, and documentation such as birth certificate, immunization records, and previous school records if transferring. Families engage with school administrative staff to ensure accurate placement and compliance with district standards. Admission focuses on equitable access, ensuring all eligible children within the neighborhood boundary have the opportunity to attend public school.
Enrollment Overview
The school serves a diverse population of elementary students, providing foundational education across core subjects. Enrollment reflects neighborhood demographics with a majority of students from historically underserved communities, and English Language Learner and special education supports integrated into instructional planning.
Application Process
- Complete and submit district enrollment application
- Provide proof of residency and student identification
- Submit immunization and health records
- Provide previous academic or school records if applicable
Application Deadlines and Important Dates
| Category | Timeline |
|---|---|
| Enrollment Period | Year‑round with priority for start of school year |
| School Year Start | Late August / Early September |
Essay Prompt
An admissions essay is not required for elementary school enrollment. The focus remains on residency eligibility and documentation needed to support placement.
The Thomas G. Morton School, Pennsylvania, K12 Scholarships
As a public school funded by state and local public education funds, The Thomas G. Morton School does not offer scholarships. Families may qualify for district or federal programs that support equitable educational opportunities, such as Title I funding and related services.
The Thomas G. Morton School, Pennsylvania, K12 Tuition Fees and Costs
| Category | Cost |
|---|---|
| Tuition | Tuition‑free public education |
| Registration Fees | None |
| Instructional Materials | Provided through district resources |
Student Profile and Demographics
Student Demographics
Thomas G. Morton School enrolls a predominantly minority student body reflective of its Philadelphia neighborhood, with a high proportion of Black students and representation from other racial and ethnic groups. The school community includes students from diverse cultural backgrounds and language experiences, contributing to a rich social environment.
Low‑Income Students and Students with Disabilities
A significant majority of students qualify for free or reduced‑price lunch programs, indicating high levels of economic need within the community. The school also serves students with identified disabilities and English Language Learners through targeted interventions, special education programs, and inclusive practices designed to support equitable access to educational opportunities.
Student Body Overview
| Category | Detail |
|---|---|
| Total Enrollment | Approximately 353 students Public School Review |
| Grade Levels | Kindergarten through Grade 5 Public School Review |
| Student‑Teacher Ratio | Approximately 11:1 Public School Review |
University Diversity
Thomas G. Morton School’s diverse community is shaped by a range of cultural, linguistic, and socioeconomic experiences that enrich the educational environment. Students learn in an atmosphere where cultural heritage and community identity are acknowledged and celebrated, fostering empathy, mutual respect, and cross‑cultural understanding from an early age. This diversity provides a foundation for inclusive learning where students engage with peers from multiple backgrounds, broadening their perspectives and social competencies. Teachers leverage the diversity within their classrooms to incorporate varied viewpoints into discussions, social studies, and community projects, encouraging students to build interpersonal skills and learn collaboratively. Such an environment promotes equity by challenging students to appreciate differences, advocate for one another, and develop a shared sense of purpose. Fostering these competencies early prepares students for increasingly diverse academic and professional settings in later stages of education, equipping them with the social and emotional tools valued in a global society.
Average Earnings
Average earnings data are not applicable at the elementary level; however, early educational experiences at Thomas G. Morton School play a crucial role in shaping foundational skills that contribute to long‑term academic attainment and future career outcomes. Engagement in literacy, numeracy, and social learning fosters the cognitive and interpersonal skills that support continued educational success and, eventually, workforce readiness.
Graduation Rate
Graduation rates are not tracked at the elementary school level. Student success is defined by grade‑level promotion and readiness for middle school, with academic growth and developmental benchmarks used to guide progress.
The Thomas G. Morton School, Pennsylvania, K12 Faculty and Staff
Teachers and Staff
The school employs certified elementary educators, special education specialists, and student support personnel committed to fostering foundational skills and social growth. Staff collaborate to design differentiated instruction that meets diverse learning needs while building community connections.
Faculty Profiles
Faculty members bring varied professional backgrounds and certifications in elementary education and student support services. Many have experience working in urban education settings and receive ongoing professional development to support instructional effectiveness and student achievement.
The Thomas G. Morton School, Pennsylvania, K12 Campus and Student Life
Campus Life and Housing
Campus life focuses on age‑appropriate engagement, social activities, and introductory enrichment programs that support academic learning and peer relationships. As a day school, housing is not provided; students participate in structured classroom routines, lunch activities, and school events that enhance community involvement.
Transportation
Transportation services include district‑provided school buses serving the attendance area, as well as family‑provided commuting options. Proximity to public transit routes also supports student accessibility.
Job Openings and Career Opportunities
The school district periodically posts job openings for teaching, administrative, and support roles at The Thomas G. Morton School. Career opportunities span classroom educators, instructional aides, and student services specialists for professionals committed to public education and community engagement.