Concrete Cowboys Bring Civic Learning to Achieve Academy East

Students at Achieve Academy East recently welcomed Philadelphia’s Concrete Cowboys to campus for a hands-on learning experience. The visit connected local history, community engagement, and classroom learning in a memorable way.

Students learned about Philadelphia’s Black urban horse-riding tradition and the role local riders have played in supporting their communities. The experience also connected directly to themes students have been exploring in high school civics.

Connecting Community History to Civic Learning

The visit gave students a real-world example of what it can mean to take an active role in the community. It also helped bring classroom conversations about civic voice, representation, and responsibility to life.

As part of a larger unit, students are examining how media portrayals can influence perceptions of neighborhoods and the people who live there. They are using the film Concrete Cowboy alongside the real-life history of Philadelphia’s Black horsemen to explore those ideas.

Exploring Media Representation and Community Voice

Students are also considering stories of mentorship, perseverance, and community care that may not always receive attention in traditional narratives.

As part of the unit, students are creating photo essays about stories in their own communities that deserve greater visibility. Their projects will culminate in a civic call to action, giving students an opportunity to connect reflection with action.

Learning from Positive Community Role Models

“School events such as the Concrete Cowboys visit provide students with meaningful opportunities to connect classroom learning to real-world experiences, while exposing them to positive community role models and perspectives beyond the classroom,” said David Wong, director of Achieve Academy East.

Wong added that students gained a greater appreciation for community, responsibility, perseverance, and making positive choices. The experience also allowed students to engage with individuals who are making a difference in their community.

The visit also attracted attention from local media. NBC10 Philadelphia came to Achieve Academy East to document the experience and speak with students and staff about the lesson.

The Concrete Cowboys visit gave students another way to connect civic learning with local history, community identity, and real-world engagement.