Philadelphia Public Schools
A Pennsylvania state law was supposed to guarantee students returning to school from the justice system get full credit for courses taken behind bars. Experts on Chalkbeat’s recent panel said it needs to be more strongly enforced.
All Pennsylvania schools must adopt ‘bell-to-bell’ policies by the start of 2027-28 school year. The new policy would be a stricter mandate than what’s in place at some Philly schools.
Republican lawmakers accused the district of training students to be ‘far-left activists.’ Superintendent Tony Watlington said changes to curriculum are underway.
Pennsylvania’s Act 1 was supposed to guarantee high school credits for kids coming out of the juvenile justice system. Instead, students and educators say lack of training and oversight have left families to fight for their education alone.
The city’s birth rate has been declining, but competition from cyber charter schools and private schools could be significant factors.
In an October gubernatorial debate appearance, Shapiro said he's "very open" to the program. But no commitment yet, as undecided Democratic governors face mounting pressure.
Experts say having a single application for all schools can improve equity and make families’ lives easier. But it takes political buy-in to create and maintain.
Students say they appreciate the tight-knit community in small schools. But some wish they had more course options.
A training program for coaches in Philadelphia seeks to help players deal with trauma off the field.
Philadelphia students will begin applying to selective schools nearly a month later than planned because official state test scores remain delayed.
“We need the classroom teaching to change in Philadelphia,” Superintendent Tony Watlington said.
District officials say their focus this school year is on improving academics.
Philadelphia’s schools will kick off what could be a tumultuous year on Monday, Aug. 24.
The committees will be set up for the nine schools closing this academic year, schools receiving students from a closing school in 2027-28, and any school phasing out at the end of school year 2026-27.
Pennsylvania lawmakers still haven’t agreed on a statewide rule for cellphones in schools.
Philadelphia educators typically use PSSA and Keystone results to plan classes and student supports. This year, the scores are on hold as the first day of school approaches.
Due to asbestos concerns, Kensington High students and staff have been relocated to a building 7 miles away.
Students have positive things to say about summer opportunities provided by the school district and city. But the academic data the district shared doesn’t tell the whole story.
School district officials say they’re expanding access for students who can handle the advanced math class. But elected officials are impatient for change.
Here’s our list of school district events and community organizations offering free school supplies and other resources.