Erie / Pennsylvania / United States
The Robert Benjamin Wiley Community Charter School is located on the east side of the city of Erie, overlooking Lake Erie. It is located in a park-like setting with a spacious playground. Our one-story building spreads across the campus and is totally handicapped accessible with ramps at all doors and a lift at the loading dock. The building is on the grounds of the former International Paper research facility and was converted into our elementary/middle school upon being leased eight years ago. The building houses eighteen classrooms, kindergarten through 8th grades, with grades 7 and 8 located in a separate section of the building and functioning as the middle school. Our Board of Directors and current administration continues to demonstrate a strong commitment to comprehensive and contemporary access to technology. There are multiple computers in every classroom, a computer lab, four mobile computer labs, six smart boards, three classroom-based computer labs, and three technology units. Additionally, all computers are networked and internet connected. Wireless notebooks have recently been obtained for more intensive student use. Due to our ability to maintain a waiting list with students from the city of Erie, all of our families are residents of Erie upon enrollment. Our charter allows us to maintain student enrollment for those who may relocate to outlying districts. Our original mission was to serve children determined to be "at risk". The demographics of our school attest to meeting that mission. Currently 98 percent of our student population are classified as "low income". 30 percent of the population is diagnosed as exceptional and in need of special education services. Historically, families and students in upper elementary and middle school grades report that they select the Charter School due to problems in other educational settings and the comprehensive, systemic services offered by the school. R.B Wiley Charter School will provide a quality education, providing the basis for students to become lifelong learners as well as moral, ethical, and compassionate people. A partnership of staff, students, parents, and the community will prepare students to become responsible citizens and productive members of the communities in which they live. Clearly stated, high expectations enhance student outcomes. The students academic, social, physical and emotional growth is the shared responsibility of the students and their families, the school administration and staff, and the surrounding community. Students need to be lifelong, independent and cooperative learners to face the challenges of the 21st century. Significant learning occurs when students understand the relevancy of what they are learning and are able to apply this knowledge to their lives.
