Original Research by School Decision on Philadelphia Learning Academy - North
Philadelphia Learning Academy - North is a very small public high school serving grades nine through twelve in the Kensington neighborhood of North Philadelphia. It currently enrolls around 85 students across a relatively even split among the four grades.
The student population is almost entirely low-income, with every enrolled student qualifying for free or reduced-price lunch. Racially and ethnically, the school is predominantly Black, with a smaller share of Hispanic students and a handful of Asian-identified students. Data on special education and English learner populations was not available.
State testing data from the most recent year available is heavily suppressed due to the school's small enrollment. In mathematics, fewer than a full class of students were tested, and proficiency figures cannot be disclosed. English language arts participation was minimal, with virtually no students taking the assessment that year. Science testing data similarly reflects a very small tested group. The limited participation rates and small numbers make it difficult to assess the school's academic performance through state assessments; a parent may want to look into the school's more recent performance data, internal assessments, or school climate directly with administrators.
The school is part of the Philadelphia City School District, which has undergone significant curriculum changes in recent years. Starting in 2023-24, the district adopted Illustrative Mathematics for all grades K-12, and in 2024-25 rolled out a science-of-reading approach to English language arts instruction. These changes standardize how reading and mathematics are taught across the district, though early results have been mixed. In addition, the district approved a major facilities master plan in April 2026 that will close a number of schools and reshape school catchment areas beginning in the following school year, so families should confirm the school's operational status and any potential relocations or mergers as these changes take effect.
The broader Philadelphia housing market has been appreciating, with home values in the school's North Philadelphia location moving upward year-over-year, though still below state and national benchmarks. Rents have also risen modestly. The city itself is experiencing moderate growth concentrated in Center City, with stable major employment anchors in healthcare, higher education, and life sciences. The neighborhood is part of a dense urban fabric served by SEPTA transit and public parks, though conditions and amenities vary considerably block by block.
Because this school serves a very small cohort and comprehensive state testing data is unavailable, a parent or guardian should request additional information from the school about its academic programming, support services, recent performance on internal assessments, college and career pathways, attendance rates, and any changes expected under the district's facilities plan.
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