High School Selection
At McKinley, prepping for the important decision of choosing the right high school is something we take very seriously and want to give you all the resources to make the right choice.
Our counselor is busy creating guides and resource information for the current 8th grade class and is always willing to speak to a student or parent so you can make the right choice.
As we get closer to the November deadline, admission requirement checklists must be completed and submitted in a timely fashion and this website section will be updated as those dates get closer.
Below is a To DO list and an IMPORTANT DATES document for you to look over now and start the admission process.
HIGH SCHOOL APPLICATIONS AND TIMELINE- SEPTEMBER to OCTOBER
STUDENT TO-DO LIST
Speak to friends/family about the High Schools they attend
Review your report cards from grades 5-7
Pay attention to important dates listed in the chart below
Visit student placement on the school district website: https://www.philasd.org/studentplacement/services/school-selection/
Pay attention to a school’s status: Neighborhood, Citywide or Special Admission
Write your essay. Ask your teacher for help: Who am I? What do I want to get out of my experience? What can I contribute to the school?
Check to see if your school requires an essay, audition, portfolio or interview. These are MANDATORY
Ask your teacher/staff member who knows you very well for a letter of recommendation if your school requires it
Things to think about: location of school, travel time, your interests/talents
Discuss the schools you are interested in with your family
Pick 5 schools that you are able to attend based on their requirements. Enter them in your H.S. selection portal
Below is a list of select open houses provided by high schools in Philadelphia:
Open Houses & Events