Philadelphia Public Schools
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.
The district has added air conditioning to dozens of schools in recent years. But around 50 still won’t have adequate cooling when the new school year begins.
Voters' views of Philadelphia schools have worsened over the past year, according to a new survey conducted after a turbulent year for the district.
Wednesday’s youth government summit is a response to research that has found young people, especially youth of color, don’t feel qualified to participate in politics.
Mayor Cherelle Parker said no additional recurring funding is coming to the district under the deal.
It’s the second time the district has closed schools due to high temperatures in less than a month.
Superintendent Tony Watlington sent a memo to city councilmembers on Thursday saying without a new source of recurring revenue, the district would not stop the cuts.
City Council gave initial approval to a $7 billion budget deal Thursday that leaves out the $1 tax on companies like Uber and Lyft. Instead, councilmembers’ will draw $48 million from other budget sources for the school district.
The Philadelphia Board of Education, which is appointed by the mayor, approved a plan to close 17 schools. That’s led to calls for the board to be elected instead.
The district’s dropout rate has declined steadily in recent years. School leaders say providing more in-school support is key, along with an online alternative for those who don’t want to return to their current school.