Best University City Public Elementary Schools (2026)

For the 2026 school year, there are 6 public elementary schools serving 2,469 students in the neighborhood of University City, Philadelphia, PA.
The top-ranked public elementary schools in University City are Penn Alexander School, Powel Samuel School and Science Leadership Academy Middle School. Overall testing rank is based on a school's combined math and reading proficiency test score ranking.
The neighborhood of University City, Philadelphia, PA public elementary schools have an average math proficiency score of 28% (versus the Pennsylvania public elementary school average of 39%), and reading proficiency score of 46% (versus the 54% statewide average).
Minority enrollment is 82% of the student body (majority Black), which is more than the Pennsylvania public elementary school average of 42% (majority Hispanic and Black).

Best Public Elementary Schools in the neighborhood of University City, Philadelphia, PA (2026)

School
(Math and Reading Proficiency)
Location
Quick Facts
Rank: #11.
Penn Alexander School
(Math: 77% | Reading: 83%)
Rank:
10/
10
Top 5%
4209 Spruce St
Philadelphia, PA 19104
(215) 400-7760
Gr: K-8 | 583 students Student-teacher ratio: 16:1 Minority enrollment: 54%
Rank: #22.
Powel Samuel School
(Math: 50-54% | Reading: 50-54%)
Rank:
6/
10
Top 50%
3610 Warren St
Philadelphia, PA 19104
(215) 400-7740
Gr: K-4 | 306 students Student-teacher ratio: 14:1 Minority enrollment: 74%
Rank: #33.
Science Leadership Academy Middle School
(Math: 21% | Reading: 55%)
Rank:
3/
10
Bottom 50%
3610 Warren St
Philadelphia, PA 19104
(215) 400-8320
Gr: 5-8 | 352 students Student-teacher ratio: 20:1 Minority enrollment: 77%
Rank: #44.
Lea Henry C School
(Math: 21% | Reading: 36%)
Rank:
2/
10
Bottom 50%
4700 Locust St
Philadelphia, PA 19139
(215) 400-7660
Gr: PK-8 | 484 students Student-teacher ratio: 12:1 Minority enrollment: 88%
Rank: #55.
Comegys Benjamin B School
(Math: 6-9% | Reading: 18%)
Rank:
1/
10
Bottom 50%
5100 Greenway Ave
Philadelphia, PA 19143
(215) 400-7860
Gr: K-8 | 267 students Student-teacher ratio: 13:1 Minority enrollment: 99%
Rank: #66.
Laboratory Charter School
Charter School
(Math: 3% | Reading: 23%)
Rank:
1/
10
Bottom 50%
Administrative Office, 926 Sed
Philadelphia, PA 19140
(267) 817-4720
Gr: K-8 | 406 students Student-teacher ratio: 12:1

Frequently Asked Questions

What are the top-ranked public elementary schools in the neighborhood of University City, Philadelphia, PA?
The top-ranked public elementary schools in the neighborhood of University City, Philadelphia, PA include Penn Alexander School, Powel Samuel School and Science Leadership Academy Middle School.
How many public elementary schools are located in the neighborhood of University City, Philadelphia?
6 public elementary schools are located in the neighborhood of University City, Philadelphia.
What is the racial composition of students in the neighborhood of University City, Philadelphia?
the neighborhood of University City, Philadelphia public elementary schools minority enrollment is 82% of the student body (majority Black), which is more than the Pennsylvania public elementary schools average of 42% (majority Hispanic and Black).

Recent Articles

Understanding School Safety Policies in 2026
Understanding School Safety Policies in 2026
Learn how school safety policies are evolving in 2026, including mental health support, AI monitoring, emergency planning, and parent rights.
How to Support Your Child’s Mental Health at School
How to Support Your Child’s Mental Health at School
Practical guidance for parents and educators on supporting child mental health during the school year, with expert strategies and 2026 insights.
What a National Blue Ribbon of Distinction Means in 2026
What a National Blue Ribbon of Distinction Means in 2026
Understand what a National Blue Ribbon of Distinction means, how schools earn it, and why it matters for academic quality in 2026.

Quick Links