Sandy Madden

Propel Schools

Propel Schools, a network of 13 public charter schools in Allegheny County, PA, was founded in 2003. Propel Schools transforms the lives of children through innovative, student-centered learning. Propel's schools are dynamic places where educators, families, scholars, and community partners work together to fulfill each scholar's comprehensive academic and fundamental needs. The academic achievement of our children is the central focus. We encourage excellence by focusing on reading, writing, mathematics, science, and social studies. Propel sets a standard for creating productive citizens, not just great students, by also prioritizing fundamental life skills. Propel seeks committed, passionate, and driven staff members who, first and foremost, want to make an impact on society. Fifteen years ago, Propel started as a dream. The dream was to build an organization with the capacity to transform public education in Southwestern Pennsylvania so that all children have access to high-performing public schools. Today, that dream is a reality. The first school opened in 2003 with 180 children, occupying a small hospital basement. In the 2017-18 school year, approximately 4,000 K-12 students attend our 13 schools in Homestead, Hazelwood, McKeesport, Montour, Munhall, Turtle Creek, Braddock Hills, Northside, and Pitcairn.