Academics

Freedom Through Learning: Why Our Work Matters

“Knowledge makes a man unfit to be a slave.”   — Frederick Douglass

As we enter March, we are reminded that the lessons and legacy honored during Black History Month extend far beyond a single month. Frederick Douglass understood that learning is more than acquiring information—it is a path to freedom and self-determination. His words remind us why what we do every day in our classrooms matters so deeply.

At Penn Hills Charter School of Entrepreneurship, we are committed to ensuring every student has a fair and meaningful opportunity to learn and grow. That is why we have strengthened our teaching practices and shifted from traditional grading to standards-aligned grading. This approach ensures that grades reflect what students truly know and can do on grade-level content—the skills and knowledge they need to succeed now and in the future.

Research shows that historically, and even today, students from marginalized communities are often denied access to grade-level content, not because of their abilities, but because of the communities they come from and, too often, the color of their skin. Standards-aligned grading helps address this by ensuring every student engages with rigorous, grade-level work. It allows teachers to see clearly where students are excelling and where they may need extra support.

Standards-aligned grading is about more than just grades—it’s about empowering students to take charge of their own learning and become leaders in their education. By knowing exactly what they are learning and having the opportunity to respond to feedback by improving their work, students develop the skills to problem-solve, think creatively, and take initiative—the very principles that drive entrepreneurial thinking. Our classrooms are places where students not only gain knowledge but practice the habits of mind that will allow them to innovate and succeed in whatever path they choose.

We are grateful for our families, whose voices and unwavering commitment to their children help shape our teaching and learning. Together—with families and our dedicated educators—we are building a school community where students are supported, challenged, and inspired to thrive.

Education has always been a pathway to liberation. By ensuring every student has access to grade-level learning, receives meaningful feedback, and has the opportunity to grow, we are living Frederick Douglass’s truth: through knowledge, our students are empowered, free in their thinking, and prepared to lead their own lives with confidence and purpose.