Engagement & Opportunities Beyond the Classroom

PALCS students are ambitious, inquisitive, independent, curious, and inspired! Although our students attend school virtually, we make it a priority to offer opportunities where our middle schoolers can socialize and make those crucial friendships that will last through their adolescent years.

From student government to groups for shared interests like culinary, art, STEM, anime and photography, we love to watch PALCS students get to know others and develop friendships that extend beyond the school day.

Plus, with PALCS enrolling students from across the state, there’s sure to be someone from your local area to connect with and maybe even arrange a virtual meet-up!

At The Pennsylvania Leadership Charter School, we know how important it is for middle schoolers to connect with others their age. That’s why we offer a variety of excursions, field trips, clubs, and more throughout the school year.

Clubs and groups for middle schoolers include Peer Ambassadors, National Junior Honor Society, and a STEM group. We will also be starting tech meet-ups with maker supplies like 3D printers, microscopes, electronics, and more!

Middle school students are also fond of our school pet, Pistachio the tortoise. On Turtle Tuesdays throughout the year, students can learn about and spend time with Pistachio!

In addition to online student activities and clubs, we also organize field trips that have included science centers, museums, zoos, sporting events, national monuments, national gardens, and behind-the-scenes tours. Here, students have the chance to meet their peers as well as faculty members and enjoy trips that are both educational and engaging for the whole family.

Interested in the arts? PALCS students have attended ballets, symphonies, and plays — and have even dressed up for the local Renaissance Faire! Students looking to explore biology and animal science have enjoyed past trips to the zoos in both Philadelphia and Pittsburgh as well as smaller zoos in Elmwood and Lehigh Valley. We even visited the Whitaker Center to watch a live (through video!) surgery.

Whether it’s the end-of-year picnic, a trip to the museum, or connecting to other families with the Parent Network, PALCS offers many ways to socialize and get to know others in the PALCS community.

 

Whether it’s honors classes, musical theatre, or dance, we know that our middle schoolers’ interests are as diverse and unique as they are. In addition to offering electives for all students, we also provide intensive programs in music, fine arts, dance, and more for high-performing students seeking more intensive immersion.

In order to participate in these programs, students must be enrolled at PALCS. Then, each program has additional application processes which could include an audition, interviews, or teacher recommendations.