PORT RICHMOND (KYW Newsradio) — A Philadelphia charter school fighting to stay open got some good news last week with money donated for new sports equipment.
New uniforms, softball bats, volleyball knee pads, and other sports equipment are headed to the Memphis Street Academy Charter School courtesy of a $15,000 donation from the WK Kellogg Company — makers of Frosted Flakes — and Brown Family ShopRites.
Memphis Academy Principal Steven Bilski said the cash will be put to good use.
"Upgrade our bats for both softball and baseball. Get kids gloves that are a little more up to speed," he said.
It’s a bright spot for the embattled school.
Years ago, Memphis Street agreed to give up its charter if it didn't meet academic targets. The School District of Philadelphia said those targets weren't met and the school board enforced the surrender clause in 2022.
The school sued, but a federal judge sided with the district this summer and ordered the Memphis Street to close. The school remains open while it appeals that decision.
Bilski said the good news of the donation is a welcome change.
"When you throw in the uncertainty with our school, anytime that we're able to have some positive feedback and any type of positive energy coming into the building… we're grateful for it," he said.
Enrollment is down at the school that serves grades 5 through 8, but Bilski said he remains committed to the 400 students who are there.
"We lost a considerable amount of students. But at the end of the day, the 416 that are with us, we're dedicated,” he said. “We're committed to giving them the best possible educational experience."