District to hold open house for three new schools

THE PHILADELPHIA School District will host an open house for its three new North Philly high schools at 6 p.m. tomorrow on North Broad Street near Spring Garden. Here's a brief description of each school:

The U School

* Learning centers on a process called "design thinking."

* Will offer interdisciplinary courses such as urban ecology, which brings together science, social studies and math.

* Along with Building 21, located at the former Joseph Ferguson School, at 7th and Norris streets.

Building 21

* Traditional courses are reorganized into "studios" based on fields of study such as journalism, environmental science and finance.

* While enrolled, students also can enroll in college courses to receive credit toward high school graduation competencies or toward a college degree or certificate.

* Along with the U School, located at the former Joseph Ferguson School, at 7th and Norris streets.

The LINC

* Focus is on global leadership, inquiry-based learning and community engagement.

* Traditional courses are organized into 30-day modules.

* Student-led conferences and exhibitions let students showcase their portfolios of work.

* Located at Roberto Clemente Middle School, on Erie Avenue near Front Street.

- Solomon Leach