By B. Smith 83-CCB Reporter with reporting by K. Velasquez -83-CCB Staff

On Thursday Nov. 3, at around 8:30 a.m the new Superintendent of Philadelphia Public Schools, Dr. Tony B. Watlington, visited Conwell Middle Magnet School, located in the Kensington area of Philadelphia. 

Photo by A. Vega 8-1. Graphic Art by K. Velasquez 8-3

Dr. Watlington, along with the Chief of School Safety Kevin Bethel and the Chief of Schools Dr. Evelyn Nunez visited Conwell Middle Magnet School to get to know some students and some of the teachers and staff.  Dr. Watlington says his reason for the visit is to see the environment and community within the school instead of just the outside. 

“My priorities as superintendent are to try and help the schools of Philadelphia grow and thrive as much as I can,” said Dr. Watlington. When asked what this would mean for Conwell, Dr. Watlington replied, “This would mean more opportunities for growth physically and educationally. It would also mean a brighter future for teachers, students and staff alike.”  

Principal Green showed Dr. Watlington, Chief. Bethel and Dr. Nunez around the entire school, she highlighted the new STEAM Lab and some renovations that have been done in the building. 

Principal Green said, “We want our students to have innovative classrooms that tap into their abilities for what they need to succeed and thrive here at Conwell, high school, college and beyond.”

Photo by A. Vega 8-1. Graphic Art by K. Velasquez 8-3.

There weren’t any special ceremonies or presentations throughout the visit. The reason for this was most likely because Dr. Watlington said he wanted to see what a normal school day at Conwell looked like. 

When going into each of the classes, Principal Green asked students to share what they were doing in class and even some of the new students what they liked about Conwell.

One student in a class we visited said, “I was nervous when I transferred but everyone has been so nice and made me feel welcomed.”

At the end of the visit, reporters Conwell Cougars Blog B. Smith and K. Velasquez asked Dr. Watlington what he thought of Conwell. 

“I think Conwell has a very nice environment and strong community within the school,” Dr. Watlington said. “I also think Conwell has amazing students and teachers.” 

“I think Conwell has a very nice environment and strong community within the school,”

Dr. Watlington, Philadelphia Public Schools Superintendent

Dr. Watlington was also asked what he thinks the importance of the United Fall Festival Torch run is to the School District. He replied, “ I think participating in the United Fall Festival torch run will encourage students to participate in activities and things like this more.” This was a very important event because this could mean a lot for our school in the future and for our school district. 

Posted by K. Velasquez-83 – CCB Staff