Apply Now

Harambee Institute of Science and Technology Charter School:
Our Mission, Vision, and Core Values

Harambee Institute exists to offer our community an education with a focus on the origins, current status, and future of the African world.

Our mission is to educate students to succeed as global citizens with a clear awareness of “who I am, where I am from, where I am going, and how I get there.”

Our vision is a collective and informed African American community utilizing science and technology as a means of promoting education for self-reliance, locally and globally.

Our core values are:

Greatness: Pursuit of excellence in all we do
Accountability: Owning what we do and who we are
Innovation: Open to new ideas with a growth mindset
Integrity: Honesty, transparency, and unity in all we do

THE PASSING OF A LEGEND
BABA JOSEPH FOSTER

joseph foster in a robe The story of African Centered education in the city of Philadelphia cannot be told without paying homage to the contributions of Baba Joseph Foster. NO single educator in the city has done more to build African Centered educational institutions than has Baba Joe.

During our organization’s formative years, Baba Joe, along with Baba John Skief decided to continue their work in the community and develop a program that would be African Centered, and community based. Harambee Institute grew from that and was incorporated in 1973. This represents one of the first African Centered community-based schools in the city of Philadelphia. And, while Baba Skief is considered the founder of Harambee and its first Director, Baba Joe was by his side as co-founder and first Business Manager.

In 1997, the inaugural year for charter schools, Harambee Institute School of Science and Technology applied for, and received, a charter to operate the first public African Centered Charter School in Pennsylvania. Baba Joe continued to support the work of Harambee once again, by serving on its founding board. He served this institution continuously in various capacities for over 50 years as Teacher, Business Manager, Board Member, Board Secretary and as Board President.

Additionally, Baba Joe elevated to the position of Principal of Imhotep Charter School in 2003 and served at what became known as “The Miracle on 21st Street” until his retirement in 2012. During this tenure at Imhotep, he taught mathematics, coached girls basketball, and served as mentor, sage, and inspiration to a generation of new African Centered educators and leaders.

Baba Joe dedicated his life to ensuring that the young people of Philadelphia would have educational options that would be impassioned and empower them to work for the liberation of African people and the elevation of humanity. His contributions are immeasurable, and his impact will resound for eternity.

A message from the CEO

ceo headshot

A message from the CEO

Dear Friend of Harambee Charter School,

Harambee celebrates Women's History Month with great enthusiasm! This March, we are excited to honor the remarkable achievements and contributions of women throughout history. From trailblazers like Rosa Parks and Harriet Tubman to modern-day heroes like Constance Clayton and JoAnne Epps, women have played pivotal roles in shaping our world. We believe it is crucial for our students to learn about the diverse accomplishments of women across different fields, empowering them to dream big and strive for their goals regardless of gender.

Throughout the month, Harambee will be hosting a variety of engaging activities and educational opportunities to celebrate Women's History Month. Our classrooms will feature lessons focusing on influential women in history, literature, science, and the arts. Students will have the chance to participate in projects, discussions, and presentations that highlight the achievements of women from diverse backgrounds and cultures. Additionally, we encourage parents and guardians to join us in this celebration by discussing the importance of gender equality and inspiring our students to become leaders and change-makers in their own right.

As we commemorate Women's History Month, let us not only reflect on the past accomplishments of extraordinary women but also commit to creating a future where all individuals have equal opportunities to succeed and thrive. Together, let's inspire the next generation to break barriers, challenge stereotypes, and make a positive impact on the African world. Thank you for joining us in honoring the incredible contributions of women throughout history.

Asante Sana,
Baba Shannon

Education for Self-Reliance

Help us build something great. HISTCS teachers, staff, and advisory groups are working hard everyday to create a high-quality student experience. If you’re a parent, community leader, or part of a larger organization we urge you to sign up for one of our volunteer or sponsorship opportunities, or attend any of our upcoming events. Let’s pull together for our kids and our community!

Get Involved

Founded in 1972, HISTCS is Pennsylvania’s first African-centered charter school

Thank you to the Brothers of Omega Psi Phi, Beta Gamma Chapter for providing four of our students with college scholarships to Cheyney University.

group of men posing for photo

2023 "GET ON THE BUS" HBCU TOUR - HARAMBEE GOES SOUTH

boy reading group of students on stairs student under banner two students girl with paper girl smiling boy smiling boy sitting on bricks group of kids smiling group of kids with teacher boy laughing man and woman smiling kids with teacher group of kids at tuskegee university sign one kid at tuskegee sign boy looking at museum girl smiling boy in front of bell

Featured Partners

big picture alliance
academy of natural sciences
stroud water research
clef club
free haven farms
natural lands
community college of philadelphia
jefferson einstein health
jefferson health 2