Belmont Charter High School

Stripes

About STRIPES

STRIPES is an integrated learning program and credit-based class at Belmont Charter High School. Integrated learning describes a process where students combine various academic skills to complete projects successfully. A strong sense of community emerges that fosters trust, risk-taking, and mentoring. The integrated learning model also relies on critical life skills: collaboration, creativity, curiosity, and self-reflection.

STRIPES (STudying Real Issues, Places, and ExperienceS) is a place-based, full-year, experiential approach to learning that views the city of Philadelphia and its partnered organizations as an extension of the traditional classroom. Students apply the knowledge gained in the classroom in a way most relevant to their experience as future community leaders while receiving credit for traditional academic courses. The program is currently offered to 11th and 12th graders at BCHS. A mix of students of all abilities and academic levels are admitted each year through an application and interview process based on interest.

Mission & Pathways

In the STRIPES program, students learn through real-world, local experiences in the city of Philadelphia. STRIPES students develop a sense of connection, purpose, and possibility that empowers them to shape and impact their communities.

STRIPES utilizes three main pathways to develop connection, purpose, and possibility:

Authentic Partnerships

Integrated Learning

Self-Knowledge

You can read more about our mission and pathways here.

11th-grade STRIPES students explore their campus neighborhood in the first semester to learn important information about their city. In the second semester, they create and implement a project addressing a community need, earning elective credit and presenting their research to local leaders.

12th-grade STRIPES students study how literacy affects social and personal change. They explore their neighborhood, linking literacy and community impact. In 2024-2025, they will earn a core English credit while working on community projects, novel studies, and personal essays. They will also present an oral history project exhibition celebrating community voices.

Frequently Asked Questions

Will STRIPES students still take regular classes?

Yes, STRIPES is a regularly scheduled class that will meet for two periods a day. Scholars will still be able to maintain a full load of core classes in addition to participating in the STRIPES program. The look and feel of their day may be different due to the combination of classes, scheduled field trips, and retreats. STRIPES students will have to work to manage these transitions, both in terms of physical space and the different learning and teaching styles they’ll experience each day.

Does STRIPES give tests and grades like other classes?

Yes and no. STRIPES uses a variety of assessments to determine student mastery. We rely heavily on feedback, reflection, and participation. STRIPES scholars won’t have typical exams, but they will have comprehensive projects and final presentations. STRIPES will give quarterly grades and report cards, just like other Belmont Charter High School classes.

Is STRIPES a support or remediation program?

No. STRIPES is for ALL scholars, whether you’re thriving or struggling. It is a vigorous, academic program. Those who feel that school has lost relevance for them may feel a particular pull to STRIPES since the program is about finding personal connections to ideas. However, it is also for students who are thriving at BCHS and are looking for other opportunities to challenge themselves in a new way.