2020 Rising up: Stories from our schools

Last year, we initiated “Rising up,” a section of the report that goes beyond the numbers to highlight areas where some schools have experienced success, with the view that we all can learn from their practices. These schools are not “exceptional”—rather, they show that we have what we need in Pittsburgh to raise achievement for all.

This year, teachers, students, administrators, community members, and a parent shared their stories with us during a time of unprecedented disruption and change. Across all of the interviews we conducted, resiliency, hope, and the importance of honest communication resounded. We thank everyone who participated.

Read on to find out how:

• South Brook 6-8 built a culture that supports student achievement

• Students, staff, and community members are creating a new model for Perry High School

• Teachers at Fulton PreK-5 educate the youngest students, and the district re-envisions pre-k through third grade

• How Colfax K-8 maintains reading achievement for all groups of K-5 students
  

Read the “Rising up” stories from 2019:

• Allegheny PreK-5: Reading to Learn at Allegheny Traditional Academy

• Arsenal 6-8: Math achievement, getting to all

• Beechwood PreK-5: Building a school on trust

• City Charter High School: Getting all students ready for college and careers

• Dilworth PreK-5: Culturally Responsive Education

• Dilworth PreK-5: Keeping suspension rates low by meeting students’ needs

• Schiller 6-8: Student attendance and the “relentless” task of getting students to school

• Insights from a Brashear High School graduate