West Philadelphia High School

About West Philadelphia High School:

220 S 47th St, Philadelphia, PA, 19139

West Philadelphia High School opened in 1912 with a student population of 5,500. The school originally was composed of two separate buildings for boys and girls. However, the schools were combined in the 1930s in order to ease administration and streamline education. The school had a great presence including a vibrant athletic community and many extracurricular activities.

On the morning of November 17th, 1967 students from West Philadelphia High School participated in a walk-out to demand equality. Their courage and activism continues to inspire us.

Like any school, this high school faced its challenges. In 2009, the school introduced restorative practices, and the campus was seen as a symbol for hope for many other schools around the nation.

In 2011, West Philadelphia High School began its transition into a Promise Academy, relocating itself to 49th and Chestnut.

In 2016, it was announced that the original and historic building was going to be converted into lofts. This project is ongoing, with a budget of 24 million dollars.

Learn More:

In this audio tour, Sanah and Maya invite you to explore what is now West Philadelphia Lofts, and the way the spaces’ transformation has impacted the community. How can we remember the activism of the 1967 students? The way this space has brought West Philly together? What does the future of the building mean for the community here?