On a summer day in 1836, a group of visionaries placed their signatures on a document that would forever change the course of education in Philadelphia. 

With quill in hand, they established what would become one of the oldest and most respected public high schools in the nation—Central High School.

That moment marked more than just the founding of a school. It ignited a legacy of academic excellence and lifelong pride—that legacy that lives on in every Central student and graduate.

Now, nearly two centuries later, we invite you to honor their bold vision by celebrating Charter Day on June 13.

As the 284th class walked the graduation stage yesterday, we reflected on how far we’ve come and how connected we remain through our shared Central experience. Whether you graduated ten years ago or seventy, the spirit of “dear old High” endures in each of us.

Ways to give on Charter Day:

The investment you make on this special day of giving will provide vital resources to every student, department, and program—the areas of greatest need to support and sustain academic excellence at Central High School.

Let us sing the praises of the crimson and the gold, forever.

Celebrate Central. Cherish Central. Choose Central.