PHILADELPHIA – The School District of Philadelphia is proud to launch its new engagement campaign, I Am SDP, which celebrates the incredible students, educators, and partners who contribute to making the District what it is today. The multi-year campaign is designed to showcase personal stories that shine a spotlight on the dedication of our exceptional teachers, who inspire and empower students every day, as well as the achievements of recent graduates, who are now pursuing their dreams that were nurtured as students. Annually, the campaign will highlight a group of outstanding individuals who embody the District’s core values and are examples of how the District is working to Accelerate Philly.

This year’s campaign kickoff features three extraordinary teachers and two 2024 graduates including: 

David Fernandez, a graduate of Strawberry Mansion High School and future engineer who earned college credits while in high school and participating in SDP’s dual enrollment program. He is studying engineering full time on scholarship at Temple University. 

Angelina Seang, a graduate of Franklin Learning Center’s Medical Assisting Program, one of over 40 CTE Programs offered in schools. She is now a successful Pharmacy Technician at Penn Presbyterian Medical Center and is continuing her education as a college student at Community College of Philadelphia.

Armond James, an English teacher at South Philly High School who pours his heart and soul into his students every day.

Shanelle Lockhart, a teacher at Kensington High School who uses her passion for technology and teaching to inspire the students in her Computer Networking CTE Program.

James Blocker, a welding instructor at Mastbaum High School who mentors students and assists them in earning industry certifications and jobs after graduation. 

“We love to showcase the enormous talent of the School District of Philadelphia students. I AM SDP gives the city a chance to see how the District has made students college and career ready,” said Tony B. Watlington Sr., Ed.D., superintendent of the School District of Philadelphia. “This campaign, featuring the personal stories of our teachers, proves what more than 50 years of research has taught us – that the single most important factor in student academic achievement is a highly qualified, well supported, and stable teacher over time.”

I AM SDP will run citywide on TV, radio, at SEPTA bus shelters, subway stations, on billboards, and across social media platforms  Look for #IAMSDP and #PHLed hashtags to learn more.