Church Farm School Graduates 36 in the Class of 2026

“Growing up in Philadelphia, I didn’t have access to the kind of enrichment my mind craved. The Philadelphia public school system, while filled with hardworking teachers, simply couldn’t provide the resources I needed. My mom discovered Church Farm School. Church Farm’s mission was to help kids like me.  

When I first arrived at Church Farm in ninth grade, I was completely unprepared for the rigorous courses and structured environment. I didn’t know how to study, how to write a scholarly essay, or how to present in front of a class. My grades reflected that. At first, I felt out of place, almost like I was pretending to belong. Then I realized I could learn from the people around me. I started paying attention to how my peers took notes, organized their time, and spoke up in class with confidence. By sophomore year, I was thriving and my mindset shifted. Learning no longer felt like a chore; it became something I wanted to master.

By junior year, I had advanced into several higher-level classes and taken on leadership roles I never imagined for myself. The most surprising moment came when I was offered a fully funded opportunity to study abroad in Ecuador. Living and learning in a completely different country gave me a new kind of confidence. It taught me that the world was much larger than the one I had grown up in and that I could find my place in it. Looking back, the gratitude I feel toward Church Farm School is overwhelming. The institution didn’t just give me an education; it gave me a brotherhood, a work ethic, and a belief in myself that I carry everywhere I go.”

This excerpt shares the words of Devon Bower-Prophet, a member of the Class of 2026 who graduated from Church Farm School on Sunday, May 24, with 35 of his peers, ready for the world. A readiness that might not have happened if not for Church Farm School taking a chance on him. Next year, he heads to Immaculata University with classmate Ben Ibe of Upper Darby; both will pursue nursing degrees. Two seniors will head to Princeton together; two to Haverford College; two to Penn State campuses; and two to Union College. There are seniors matriculating to Swarthmore, Northeastern, Claremont McKenna, Amherst, Skidmore, NYIT, and Johnson & Wales. Their interests span the gamut from aerospace engineering to hospitality, psychology, business, international relations, and more.  

While Devon exemplifies the extraordinary transformation that occurs among students at Church Farm, his story is not unique. Since 1918, Church Farm School has been a shining example that opportunity changes lives. Students depart not only prepared for college and careers but also equipped to lead lives of character, service, and impact. Their journeys remind us that when talented young people are given access, support and belief, they do more than succeed, they thrive. Congratulations, Church Farm School Class of 2026! You can view the full gallery from the Class of 2026 Commencement here.