AMY at James Martin

The School District of Philadelphia

This new, ground-up public middle school is a once-in-a-generation opportunity to provide modern learning through federal funding and design-build delivery

AMY at James Martin

The School District of Philadelphia

Philadelphia, PA

88,000 GSF, four-story school

LEED Gold

The Opportunity

The School District of Philadelphia (SDP) targeted a new facility for The Alternative Middle Years (AMY) at James Martin for students in grades 6-8 that aligns with the District’s mission, vision, goals and guardrails. The existing James Martin School building was demolished, allowing for the construction of a new LEED Gold certified facility that embraces 21st-century learning environments for 500 students. The new school reflects SDP’s mission to provide educational equity and encourage all students to reach their fullest potential.

Our Approach

The school program and space organization is developed in accordance with SDP’s Educational Specifications, while also reflecting AMY’s teaching pedagogies. Core academic content areas are grouped as learning neighborhoods, allowing for students to move independently throughout the school day, with specials and hands-on learning spaces located in community facing locations that put learning on display. Outdoor spaces not only provide additional learning and recreational opportunities, but also highlight unique elements such as AMY’s bicycle program.

To create engaging and effective learning environments, our design creates a welcoming space that emphasizes natural light, sustainability, and connections to the outdoors. There is equitable spatial access tailored to the needs of each student. The spaces are flexible and can be adapted for changing needs, allowing for a variety of activities and the ability to respond to evolving trends and educational philosophies, such as inquiry-based teaching and STEM subjects. Located in a tight, urban space, we created a vertical learning neighborhood that is interwoven into the character of Port Richmond.

Tony B. Watlington, Sr., Ed.D., Superintendent, The School District of Philadelphia

The new AMY at James Martin school is more than just a building; it is a testament of our commitment to creating equitable, high-quality learning environments in Philadelphia for students.

AMY at James Martin Ribbon Cutting Event, 2026

Program

Classrooms, science labs, art, life skills, music rooms, innovation and media center, makerspace, small group learning environments, open commons, gymnatorium, cafeteria, full-service kitchen, green roof classroom