Microsoft's School of the Future in Philadelphia held its first commencement ceremony, despite questions of just how successful this experiment in education really was.
The school, run in conjunction with tech giant Microsoft, opened to fanfare in 2006. But it has been plagued with criticism over unorthodox grading, an unfocused curriculum, and shockingly low test scores. In fact, only seven percent of its students are proficient in math.
"Let's not kid ourselves. Kids weren't going to come into the School of the Future on third and fourth grade reading levels and, all of a sudden, be proficient in four years," said Mary Cullinane of Microsoft. "That's not possible."
Rosalind Chavis is the school's fourth principal in a two year span. She focused on getting the school away from experimental teaching and back in line with district curriculum.
Still, just a few weeks ago, a parent complained to the School Reform Commission that her child was unprepared.
Chavis argues that student, and every other one in the graduating class, has been accepted to college. But she admits many of her students will arrive needing help.
"I'm quite sure many of them will need remediation," Chavis said, though went on to say that there will be some who will be ready on day one.
Despite the criticism, many of the parents and students say they are pleased with the school. In fact, many of the students look at the struggles of the last four years as a life lesson.
"I feel as though I'm prepared because I prepared myself. I took initiative for myself," said student Amira Speas.
"I've learned a lot from it," said student Iman Griffen, adding this advice: "Don't go into any situation with expectations for the place, but go in with expectations for yourself."
Indeed, next year these kids may teach the other freshmen exactly how the tough get going.
