Philadelphia Public Schools
Parents, teachers, and students oppose plans to close or combine several of the schools, saying they are valued alternatives to neighborhood schools
The Board of Education approved amendments to the academic calendar that eliminates half days for students during staff professional development days. Members also approved a wellness policy that codifies student access to recess and bathroom breaks.
School board members pressed Superintendent Watlington for more details about the proposal.
Members of the City Council have expressed concerns about the district’s sweeping facilities plan.
Superintendent Tony Watlington has said the plan will need $2.8 billion in funding. The people who control that money take issue with what he wants to do.
Stigma and limited options often drive students away from participating in free school meals, according to a new study from Temple University.
Tuesday will be the fifth day this school year the district has closed schools due to snow.
Small teams of educators working together to support students and improve their teaching styles could be the key to keeping more teachers in the classroom, advocates say.
Some players had been overlooked by other high schools, about half of the starting lineup is considered undersized, and they represent Kensington, a Philly neighborhood that comes with a reputation.
The district’s school closure proposal includes shuttering five magnet or citywide admissions high schools.
At Lankenau Environmental High School, educators said the district should protect the campus’ unique offerings. At Paul Robeson High School, families worried the school’s land has been targeted for redevelopment.
Philadelphia district officials say they’ve learned lessons from the last round of school closures. Some people aren’t so sure.
Diplomas are key to financial success, but parts of Kensington have historically experienced barriers to graduation. Efforts are underway to support the next generation of students.
The school board approved a $600,000 contract to provide the officers with protective equipment and other gear despite concerns from students and experts.
School leaders will host a virtual and in-person meeting for each school they propose closing.
Many school communities hope leaders will soften the district’s proposal to close 20 schools beginning in 2027.
Nine of the 20 schools the district wants to close are in areas it has identified as vulnerable, based on neighborhood social factors and prior school closures.
The district’s proposal to close 20 schools has drawn opposition from City Council members, parents, alumni, and educators, who see the schools as integral resource hubs and safe spaces in their communities.
It’ll be the third straight day the district has kept school buildings closed following a snowstorm in the region.
If weather requires schools to stay closed after Monday, students will learn remotely.