Overview
Blockson Middle School (formerly Stewart) is located in the west end of the Municipality of Norristown. Opening as a junior high school in 1925, it was converted to a middle school in 1973, and renamed in 2023 in honor of Charles L. Blockson (1933-2023).
Mr. Blockson was a former Stewart Middle School Student. He was a scholar, activist, historian, teacher, and architect behind some of the most prestigious collections of African American artifacts in the United States. He traveled extensively around the world acquiring rare African American publications and artifacts dating back to the 16th century.
A wireless computer network is available to all students for research and enrichment opportunities. Many classrooms have smart boards and teachers have access to technology based curriculum resources. This technology is used for daily instruction as well as formative assessments to ensure student learning. In addition, a state-of-the-art visual and sound system in the auditorium provides a rich environment for student assemblies and presentations.
Students at Blockson have many opportunities to extend their involvement at school with after-school activities. Seventh and eighth grade students participate on a variety of athletic teams. Blockson’s student council program does service activities and projects throughout the school year. Many clubs and other activities are offered to students, from Band, Chorus and Orchestra to 24 to Homework Club.
Blockson has been actively involved with The Food Trust. The Food Trust provides nutritional lessons and samples during the school day. Blockson received mini-grants to focus on special projects within the school. We are especially proud of the community garden. This garden which is partly funded by the Norristown Education Foundation is run entirely by students and the vegetables are donated to local families. Stewart is working hard to help students make positive choices that lead to active, healthy lifestyles.
Blockson has been designated a No Place for Hate School and worked with the Anti-Defamation league to ensure that all students have a safe environment in which to learn and grow each year. Several school wide projects are incorporated into the school culture as a result of No Place for Hate activities.
Blockson has implemented parts of the Olweus Bullying Prevention Program over the last few years. This program is researched based and helps schools combat bullying. This program involved professional development for staff, students and families. We hope that bringing awareness to this important issue and partnering with families will stop incidents of bullying at Blockson Middle School. Blockson has been implementing Restorative Practices for several years. Restorative Practices promotes healthy and positive relationships.
Blockson has recieved many cosmetic and structural renovations over the last few years including: new windows, a new roof, masonry work and landscaping improvements. We are excited that our main entrance is scheduled to be renovated and our sound system updated.
